Master the essential communication layer that securely connects your Trezor hardware wallet to web browsers and applications.
Trezor Bridge is the critical software component that enables secure communication between your Trezor hardware wallet and web browsers. Unlike traditional browser extensions, Bridge operates as a local background service that maintains the highest security standards while providing seamless connectivity.
Security Architecture: Trezor Bridge creates an isolated communication channel that prevents web pages from directly accessing your hardware device. This design ensures that even if a malicious website tries to interact with your Trezor, it cannot bypass the security protocols enforced by Bridge.
Runs as a background service on your computer, independently from your web browser
Provides secure API endpoints that web applications can use to communicate with your device
Manages USB/HID communication with your Trezor device using secure protocols
Trezor Suite or compatible dApp initiates request
Validates and processes the request locally
Secure device communication protocol
Hardware processes request and requires physical confirmation
Isolates web applications from direct hardware access, preventing malicious sites from interacting with your device without your knowledge.
Runs silently in the background without requiring manual intervention or browser extensions.
Works with all major browsers including Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Brave without additional configuration.
Automatically updates to the latest version with security patches and compatibility improvements.
Available for Windows, macOS, and Linux with consistent functionality across all operating systems.
Supports connecting multiple Trezor devices simultaneously with proper device identification.
Includes logging and diagnostic features for troubleshooting connection issues.
Operates entirely locally without sending any data to external servers or tracking user activity.
When you first visit Trezor Suite web or Trezor.io/start, the platform will automatically detect if Bridge is missing and prompt you to install it.
Recommended: This method ensures you get the correct version for your operating system and automatically handles the installation process.
For advanced users or troubleshooting, you can download Bridge directly from GitHub releases:
Choose the appropriate package for your operating system and architecture.
Linux users can install via package managers:
Always verify package authenticity when using third-party repositories.
Symptoms: Browser shows "Trezor Bridge not installed" error
Solutions:
Symptoms: Bridge runs but cannot detect connected Trezor
Solutions:
Symptoms: Access denied or permission errors
Solutions:
| Connection Method | Security Level | Convenience | Browser Support | Setup Complexity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trezor Bridge | High | High | All Browsers | Low |
| WebUSB (Legacy) | Medium | High | Chrome Only | None |
| Browser Extension | Medium | Medium | Limited | Medium |
| Desktop Suite Only | High | Low | N/A | None |
Service Verification: You can verify Bridge is running correctly by visiting http://127.0.0.1:21325/ in your browser. A healthy Bridge installation will return version information. This local endpoint is only accessible from your computer and provides diagnostic information about the service status.
The desktop Trezor Suite includes an embedded version of Bridge, so you don't need to install it separately. However, if you want to use Trezor with web applications (like third-party dApps, wallet interfaces, or the web version of Trezor Suite), you need Bridge installed. The desktop Suite is self-contained, while Bridge enables browser-based access.
Yes, Trezor Bridge is developed and maintained by SatoshiLabs, the same company that creates Trezor hardware wallets. It's open-source software that has been audited for security. Bridge enhances security by preventing web pages from directly accessing your device and ensures all communication is properly authenticated. Always download Bridge from official sources to avoid malicious versions.
Yes, but with limitations. The desktop Trezor Suite application works without Bridge as it includes built-in device communication. However, web-based interfaces (including the web version of Trezor Suite and third-party dApps) require Bridge for device communication. Some older browsers supported WebUSB as an alternative, but this method has been deprecated due to security concerns and limited browser support.
You can check Bridge status in several ways: Visit http://127.0.0.1:21325/ in your browser - a running Bridge will show version information. Check your system services (Windows Services, macOS LaunchDaemons, or Linux systemd) for Trezor Bridge. The Trezor Suite interface will also indicate if Bridge is properly detected. Most operating systems show Bridge running in the background processes list.
First, try restarting the Bridge service through your operating system's service manager. If that doesn't work, reinstall the latest version from the official Trezor website. Check for firewall or antivirus software that might be blocking Bridge's local network communication. On Linux, verify that udev rules are properly configured. If issues persist, check the Bridge logs for error messages that can help diagnose the problem.