How to Use Trezor Bridge — Step-by-Step for Beginners

Trezor Bridge is the small, local helper application that enables your web browser to talk to a Trezor hardware wallet. If you want to use Trezor with web-based wallets, decentralized apps (dApps), or the browser version of Trezor Suite, Bridge is often required to detect and communicate with your device reliably. This guide walks you through everything a beginner needs to know: why Bridge exists, how to install and run it on Windows / macOS / Linux, basic usage, troubleshooting, and security best practices.

Quick overview — what Bridge does and why it matters

Browsers intentionally limit low-level USB access for security reasons. Trezor Bridge runs locally and provides a controlled, auditable channel that forwards browser requests to the Trezor device. Critically, Bridge never exposes your recovery seed or private keys — it only relays messages and lets the hardware device sign transactions on your behalf.

Before you start — prerequisites

  • A genuine Trezor hardware device (Model One, Model T, or compatible model).
  • A computer running a modern OS (Windows, macOS, or Linux) with administrator rights to install software.
  • A modern browser (Chrome, Brave, Edge, Firefox, Opera) — note that WebUSB support varies across browsers and OSes.
  • A USB cable that supports data (not just charging).
If you plan to use the native Trezor Suite desktop app, Bridge is usually not required. Bridge is primarily for browser-based workflows.

Step 1 — Download Bridge safely

  1. Open your browser and go directly to the official Trezor website. Avoid following links from social media, emails, or search ads.
  2. Find the Trezor Bridge download page and select the installer for your operating system.
  3. Save the installer to your Downloads folder.
Security tip: Fake installers are a common phishing vector. Always verify the domain before downloading and prefer the official site.

Step 2 — Install Bridge (by OS)

Windows

  1. Double-click the downloaded .exe file.
  2. If User Account Control (UAC) appears, choose Yes to allow installation (only do this if you downloaded from the official source).
  3. Follow the installer prompts. Bridge installs a small background service that starts automatically.
  4. Restart your browser once installation finishes, then connect your Trezor device.

macOS

  1. Open the downloaded .dmg or .pkg file.
  2. Drag the Bridge app to Applications (or follow the package installer prompts).
  3. Allow permissions if macOS blocks the app on the first run (System Preferences → Security & Privacy → Open Anyway).
  4. Restart your browser and connect the device.

Linux

  1. Download the appropriate Bridge package or binary for your distribution.
  2. Make the binary executable (e.g. chmod +x trezor-bridge) and run the installer or package manager command for DEB/RPM users.
  3. On some distributions you may need to add udev rules to allow non-root USB access — the download page or docs usually provide the necessary instructions.
  4. Restart your browser after installation and plug in the device.

Step 3 — Connect your Trezor and allow the bridge

  1. Plug your Trezor into a USB port with a data-capable cable.
  2. Open the web interface you want to use (Trezor web Suite, a dApp, or another compatible site).
  3. If a permission prompt appears in the browser, approve the local connection (this is the browser granting the page access to the local Bridge service).
  4. Confirm any on-screen prompts on the Trezor device — the hardware screen is where you verify addresses and amounts.
Always verify addresses and transaction details on the Trezor screen. The hardware display is the final authority — not the browser.

Basic usage flow

  1. Open the web wallet or DApp in your browser.
  2. Choose to connect a hardware wallet and pick Trezor if prompted.
  3. Bridge relays the connection request; the Trezor device appears in the interface.
  4. When sending or signing, the browser builds the transaction and Bridge forwards it to the device for on-device signing.
  5. Approve the transaction physically on your Trezor; the signed transaction returns to the web app and is broadcast to the network.

Troubleshooting — common issues & fixes

  • Device not detected: Try a different USB cable/port, restart Bridge, or reboot your computer.
  • Multiple apps conflict: Close other wallet apps or browser tabs that might have an active connection to the Trezor.
  • Browser permission blocked: Check the browser's site permissions and allow access to the local Bridge endpoint.
  • Antivirus/firewall interference: Temporarily whitelist Bridge or allow local connections; reinstall Bridge if necessary.
  • Linux udev issues: Make sure udev rules are installed and you have the correct group membership to access USB devices.

Uninstalling or updating Bridge

Bridge updates are issued occasionally. You can update by running the latest installer from the official site — it will replace the previous version. To uninstall, use your OS's standard uninstall method (Control Panel / Apps & Features on Windows, move to Trash on macOS, package manager on Linux). Uninstalling Bridge does not affect your Trezor device or the keys stored on it.

Security best practices

  • Download Bridge only from the official Trezor site.
  • Never enter your recovery seed into a computer or website — it belongs only on the hardware device or a secure offline backup.
  • Verify transaction details on the Trezor device display every time you sign.
  • Use the Trezor Suite desktop app if you want to avoid installing Bridge for browser use.
  • Keep your OS and browser up to date and avoid running untrusted extensions or scripts while using your wallet.

Short FAQs

Do I always need Bridge?

No — if you use the Trezor Suite desktop app, Bridge is usually not required. Bridge is for browser-based workflows.

Does Bridge access my seed or keys?

No. Bridge only relays messages between the browser and the hardware. Your seed and private keys stay on the Trezor device.

Is Bridge safe?

Yes when installed from the official source. It runs locally, is open to inspection, and does not transmit sensitive information off your computer.

Final checklist before you begin

  1. Download Bridge from the official Trezor website.
  2. Install the correct package for your OS and restart your browser.
  3. Use a data-capable USB cable and plug into a reliable port.
  4. Verify on-device details each time you approve an action.
  5. If unsure, use the native Trezor Suite desktop application instead.

This guide gives a practical, beginner-focused path to installing and using Trezor Bridge. If you encounter unusual behavior or security concerns, stop and consult official Trezor documentation or support channels. Your hardware device and recovery seed are the ultimate keys — protect them carefully.

Official Trezor Website