Trezor Bridge

What Is Trezor Bridge?

Trezor Bridge is a small utility that runs locally on your system (Windows, macOS, or Linux). It acts as a “bridge” between your hardware wallet and browser interfaces. Instead of relying on browser extensions or USB drivers, web apps communicate with Bridge via a local HTTP interface, and Bridge relays commands over USB to your device. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

It’s important to note: the Bridge software does **not** store your private keys, seeds, or PINs. It simply forwards encrypted messages. All signing and confirmation actions happen on your physical Trezor device. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

Why Do You Need It?

Modern browsers like Chrome, Edge, and Brave may support WebUSB directly, allowing direct interaction with hardware wallets. But not all browsers or versions do. In those cases, Bridge becomes necessary to permit connectivity. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

Bridge also helps with compatibility quirks across operating systems and browser setups, provides a stable local channel, and avoids the pitfalls of insecure browser extensions. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

Also, some users report needing to reinstall or restart Bridge when their setup changes (e.g. OS update, browser update) to maintain connection. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

Download & Install Guide

Follow these steps to download, install, and get Bridge running:

1. Go to the Official Download Page
   Visit trezor.io/bridge or use the official Trezor “start” wizard (trezor.io/start) to fetch the correct installer for your OS. Always ensure you're on the genuine Trezor domain to avoid malicious copies. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
2. Choose Your Platform
   Select the version for your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux). Some builds may include signed installers or checksums for validation. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
3. Run the Installer
   Execute the downloaded file and follow on-screen instructions. On macOS you may need to allow permissions under System Preferences > Security & Privacy. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
4. Restart Browser / Apps
   After installation, close and reopen your browser or Trezor Suite web interface so it picks up the newly-running Bridge. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
5. Connect Your Trezor Device
   Plug in your hardware wallet, enter your PIN, and allow the connection when prompted. The web interface should now detect your device through Bridge. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}

Security & Best Practices

Trezor Bridge is designed with security in mind, but your safety depends on using it correctly. Here are recommended practices:

Only Download from Official Source: Use trezor.io/bridge or trezor.io/start. Avoid third‑party download sites, which may host malicious or tampered files. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}

Verify Signatures / Checksums: If the download page provides digital signatures or hashes, verify them to ensure integrity. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}

Confirm On-device Displays: Always ensure the details shown on your Trezor device screen match what the web interface prompts. Do not approve mismatched or unknown transactions. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}

Local-only Communication: Bridge listens only on localhost (your machine). It does not expose interfaces over the internet. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}

Keep Software Updated: Update both your device firmware and Bridge when new versions are released. These often include bug fixes, performance improvements, and security patches. :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}

Use Trezor Suite Desktop When Possible: The desktop app communicates directly with your device without requiring Bridge, reducing complexity and reliance on web interfaces. :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Here are some problems you may run into and how to address them:

• “Bridge Not Running” / Device Not Detected:
  Restart your system or relaunch Bridge manually. Check system tray (Windows) or menu bar (macOS) for the Bridge icon. :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}
• Browser Doesn’t Connect:
  Close and reopen the browser. Clear its cache or try a different browser (Chrome, Edge, Brave). Some browsers require explicit permission to access USB devices. :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}
• USB Cable / Port Failures:
  Use a known data-capable USB cable (some are power-only). Try switching ports (front vs back). :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}
• macOS Permissions Blocking Installation:
  In System Preferences → Security & Privacy, allow the installer or driver extension if macOS initially blocks it. :contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}
• Stuck or Repeated Prompts to Install Bridge:
  Some users have encountered this behavior with Trezor Suite (desktop or web). Reinstalling or downgrading Bridge sometimes helps. :contentReference[oaicite:21]{index=21}
• Signature / Verification Failures:
  Ensure you imported the correct public key first. Use `.asc` or `.sig` files and follow the proper verification order. :contentReference[oaicite:22]{index=22}

If nothing works, consult official Trezor support or community troubleshooting resources, but never share your recovery seed or PIN. :contentReference[oaicite:23]{index=23}