This guide explains the role of Trezor Bridge, how it connects your browser to a Trezor hardware wallet, common installation and troubleshooting strategies, and security best practices for safe use.
Trezor Bridge is a small local application that runs on your computer and acts as a secure translator between modern web browsers and the Trezor hardware device. Because web browsers have tightened direct access to USB devices for security, Bridge provides an approved and isolated channel so browser-based wallet interfaces can communicate with the hardware without exposing low level device access to websites.
In plain terms: when you connect a Trezor to your computer and want to use a browser wallet or the official web interface, the browser talks to Bridge, and Bridge talks to the device. That separation reduces the attack surface while preserving the convenience of browser-based interfaces.
Bridge runs locally and listens for requests from a browser extension or a web application served over a secure connection. The browser sends a high level command such as a request to list accounts or to sign a transaction. Bridge receives and validates that request, forwards the appropriate message to the connected Trezor device, and returns the device response back to the browser. At no point does Bridge transmit your private keys or secret data off your machine.
To get started, visit the official Trezor Bridge page at trezor.io/bridge. Downloads are available for major desktop platforms. Installation typically follows the normal pattern for applications on your operating system: download, open the installer package, and follow the on screen prompts until the local service is running.
After installation, connect your Trezor device with the supplied cable and open your preferred browser-based wallet interface or the official start page at trezor.io/start. The site will detect Bridge and prompt you through the connection sequence. If the device prompts for confirmation, complete that on the device screen to authorize actions.
Even though Bridge is intentionally simple, a few common issues can prevent the browser from seeing the device. Try these approaches in the order that makes the most sense for your environment.
First, confirm Bridge is running. On most systems you will see Bridge listed among background services or running applications. If it is not running, launch it manually from your applications folder. Then reconnect the hardware and reopen the browser page.
If the browser still cannot detect the device, try unplugging the cable and reconnecting to a different USB port. Use the original cable supplied with the device where possible; some third party cables support power only and block data signals.
Another common cause is browser interference. Close any browser tabs that might be holding stale connections, and ensure that privacy extensions or security settings are not blocking local connections. Temporarily disable extensions known to block web socket traffic to test if they are responsible.
When problems persist, rebooting the computer and reconnecting the device often clears hidden resource locks or driver issues.
Bridge is designed to work with modern browsers. Some browsers manage USB permissions differently; when asked, always permit the local site to use the Bridge connection for the duration required. If your browser offers an option to remember the permission, use it only on trusted machines. Some advanced browsers or privacy focused builds may require additional configuration to allow local connections; consult browser documentation alongside the official Bridge page at trezor.io/bridge.
Note that mobile browsers and mobile operating systems generally do not use Bridge. Mobile workflows typically rely on different connection methods such as Bluetooth or dedicated mobile apps.
Bridge itself is only one piece of a secure setup. Follow these practices to keep your assets safe:
Occasional updates to Bridge add compatibility improvements and security fixes. Check the official page at trezor.io/bridge for the latest installers. The Trezor device firmware is updated separately; firmware upgrades are performed only after explicit user confirmation on the hardware device. Never install firmware from untrusted sources.
If you encounter an issue that the basic troubleshooting steps do not resolve, consult the official help resources linked from trezor.io/start. Use vendor support channels to report suspicious behavior or suspected software tampering. When you contact support, describe the environment, the operating system, the browser, and the exact symptoms — but do not share seed phrases or private keys with anyone.
Trezor Bridge is an intentionally minimal, privacy conscious connector that enables modern browser experiences while keeping cryptographic secrets on the hardware device. When installed from official sources and paired with standard security practices, Bridge delivers a convenient and safe bridge between web interfaces and the strong protections offered by the Trezor hardware.
If you are new to hardware wallets, start at the official onboarding page at trezor.io/start for guided steps and up-to-date resources.