What is Trezor Bridge?
Trezor Bridge is essential communication software that creates a secure connection between your Trezor hardware wallet and web-based cryptocurrency applications. Acting as a local server on your computer, Bridge enables your browser to safely interact with your device without compromising security.
Why Do You Need Trezor Bridge?
Modern web browsers restrict direct USB device access for security reasons. Trezor Bridge solves this by running locally on your computer, providing:
- Secure USB communication between browser and hardware wallet
- Local-only operation - no internet connection to external servers
- Browser compatibility - works with Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Brave
- Automatic device detection when you plug in your Trezor
- Background service that starts automatically with your system
Before You Install
Ensure your system meets these requirements for Trezor Bridge installation:
- Windows 7 or newer / macOS 10.11 or newer / Linux (most distributions)
- Administrator access to install system software
- Working USB port for connecting Trezor device
- Compatible web browser (Chrome 63+, Firefox 57+, or Edge 79+)
Installation Process
Follow these steps to get Trezor Bridge running:
- Download - Visit our official download page to get the correct version for your operating system
- Run installer - Double-click the downloaded file and follow installation prompts
- Grant permissions - Allow the installer to make system changes when prompted
- Verify installation - Bridge should start automatically as a background service
- Test connection - Connect your Trezor and visit our connection testing page
How to Know It's Working
You'll know Trezor Bridge is operational when:
- The Bridge icon appears in your system tray (Windows) or menu bar (macOS)
- Web wallet interfaces can detect your Trezor device when connected
- No "Bridge not running" error messages appear
- Your browser can successfully communicate with the hardware wallet
After Installation
Once Bridge is running, you can:
- Access web-based wallet applications like Web3 wallet interfaces
- Use third-party wallets that support Trezor hardware
- Manage multiple Trezor devices through the same Bridge installation
- Enjoy automatic updates that keep Bridge current
Troubleshooting First Connection
If you encounter issues connecting your device after installing Trezor Bridge:
- Restart your browser completely (close all tabs and reopen)
- Try a different USB cable - damaged cables cause many connection problems
- Use a different USB port - front ports can have power issues
- Check that Bridge service is running in Task Manager or Activity Monitor
- Visit our comprehensive connection troubleshooting guide
Platform-Specific Notes
- Windows users - Bridge installs USB drivers automatically
- macOS users - You may need to allow Bridge in Security & Privacy settings
- Linux users - Additional udev rules configuration may be required
Next Steps
Now that you understand what Trezor Bridge does, explore our knowledge base:
- Browse all 39 Bridge articles for detailed technical guides
- Learn about different installation methods
- Understand Bridge security and privacy features
- Get help on our support page for additional resources