What is Trezor® Bridge?

Trezor Bridge is a critical communication service that enables secure interaction between web browsers and Trezor® hardware wallets. This background application facilitates the Trezor Bridge login process by establishing an encrypted communication channel, allowing web-based applications to securely interact with your hardware wallet while maintaining the highest security standards.

Operating as a system-level service, Trezor Bridge eliminates the security limitations of browser extensions by providing a robust, standalone communication layer. It automatically detects connected Trezor® devices and manages secure data exchange between web interfaces and your hardware wallet, ensuring private keys never leave the secure environment of your physical device.

Key Features and Benefits

Automatic Device Detection

Seamlessly recognizes connected Trezor® devices and establishes secure communication channels without user intervention during the Trezor Bridge login process.

Cross-Browser Compatibility

Works with all major browsers including Chrome, Firefox, Brave, and Edge, providing consistent functionality regardless of your browser preference.

Background Operation

Runs as a system service independent of browser sessions, ensuring continuous availability and eliminating the need for browser extensions.

Enhanced Security

Maintains hardware wallet security principles by ensuring private keys remain isolated while enabling secure web-based interactions.

How Trezor Bridge Works

Communication Architecture

  1. 1User connects Trezor® device to computer via USB
  2. 2Trezor Bridge service detects device connection
  3. 3User visits supported web application (Suite web, third-party wallets)
  4. 4Browser communicates with Bridge service via localhost API
  5. 5Bridge facilitates secure data exchange with hardware device
  6. 6User completes Trezor login with physical device confirmation
Security Architecture: Trezor Bridge operates on the localhost interface (127.0.0.1), ensuring all communication remains within your computer. The service only transmits unsigned transaction data to the device and receives signed responses - private keys never leave the secure element of your hardware wallet.

When You Need Trezor Bridge

Use Case Bridge Required Notes
Trezor Suite Web Interface ✓ Required Essential for web-based access to Trezor Suite
Third-party Web Wallets ✓ Required MyEtherWallet, MetaMask, and other web services
Desktop Trezor Suite ✗ Not Required Includes integrated communication components
Mobile App Usage ✗ Not Required Direct server connection for watch-only access
Initial Device Setup ✓ Recommended Required for web-based setup at trezor.io/start

Installation and Setup

Download and Installation Process

The Trezor Bridge installation is straightforward and available for Windows, macOS, and Linux systems. Visit the official Trezor website to download the appropriate package for your operating system. The installation process typically requires administrator privileges to install the background service.

Verification and Testing

After installation, verify Trezor Bridge is running by connecting your device and visiting the Trezor Suite web interface. The automatic Trezor Bridge login process should detect your device and prompt for PIN entry on your hardware device.

Integration with Trezor Ecosystem

Trezor Bridge works seamlessly with the broader Trezor ecosystem, including compatibility with devices initialized through trezor.io/start and synchronization with portfolio data accessible through the trezor suite app.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Connection Problems

Browser Detection Issues

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Trezor Bridge safe to use? +

Yes, Trezor Bridge is developed and maintained by SatoshiLabs, the creators of Trezor® hardware wallets. The application is open-source, regularly audited, and operates with strict security principles. It only facilitates communication between your browser and hardware device - private keys remain securely stored on your Trezor® device and never pass through the Bridge service.

Do I need Bridge if I only use the desktop Suite? +

No, if you exclusively use the desktop Trezor Suite application from the trezor suite download, you don't need Trezor Bridge. The desktop application includes integrated communication components. Bridge is specifically designed for web-based access through browsers and third-party web applications that require hardware wallet integration.

Can Bridge be used with multiple browsers simultaneously? +

Yes, Trezor Bridge supports multiple browser instances and different browsers simultaneously. The service manages communication requests from all supported browsers and coordinates access to connected devices. You can use your Trezor® with Chrome, Firefox, and other supported browsers at the same time without conflicts.

What's the difference between Bridge and the old Chrome extension? +

Trezor Bridge replaced the Chrome extension to provide better security, reliability, and cross-browser compatibility. Unlike browser extensions that are limited by browser security sandboxes and require frequent updates, Bridge operates as a system service with more consistent performance, better device detection, and independence from browser-specific limitations.

How do I update Trezor Bridge? +

Trezor Bridge includes automatic update functionality on Windows and macOS. When a new version is available, you'll receive a notification to download and install the update. On Linux, updates are typically handled through your distribution's package manager. Regular updates ensure compatibility with new device features and security improvements.

Does Bridge work with the mobile app? +

No, the trezor suite app for mobile devices operates independently of Trezor Bridge. The mobile app connects directly to Trezor's servers for portfolio synchronization and watch-only functionality. Bridge is specifically designed for computer-based web browser communication and isn't required or available for mobile platforms.