Trezor Bridge acts as the secure communication layer between your hardware wallet and the Trezor Suite (or compatible web wallets). It creates a trusted channel so your computer and device can exchange commands, sign transactions, and verify addresses without exposing your private keys. Below you'll find clear guidance, practical tips, and troubleshooting steps to keep your Trezor connected and your crypto safe.
Trezor Bridge is a lightweight helper application that runs on your computer and securely forwards requests from the Trezor Suite or supported browser pages to your Trezor hardware wallet. Unlike browser plugins, Bridge is designed to be simple, robust, and consistent across operating systems. It ensures that USB or web-based connections are handled in a controlled environment and reduces the risk of browser sandboxing issues interfering with device communication.
When interacting with a hardware wallet, the most critical requirement is that private keys never leave the device. Bridge preserves this promise by only transmitting signed or unsigned messages and never storing or transmitting seed material. It also helps the desktop app detect connected devices and manage firmware updates.
Installation is straightforward and safe. Always download Bridge from the official Trezor website or the Trezor Suite to avoid counterfeit installers.
Note: macOS and some Linux distributions may require additional permissions for USB access. If your device is not detected, check system USB settings and security preferences.
If Trezor Suite reports that no device is connected, try these steps in order: reconnect the USB cable, try a different cable (data-capable), switch USB ports, restart Trezor Suite, and reinstall Bridge. Avoid USB hubs when possible — connect directly to your computer.
On Windows, drivers are installed automatically by the Bridge installer. On Linux, you may need udev rules added to allow non-root access. Refer to the official documentation for commands tailored to your distribution.
Bridge checks for compatibility and firmware update prompts. If an update is available, follow the official steps in Trezor Suite. Never install firmware files received from unofficial sources.
Bridge does not manage seeds or backups — your recovery seed is only on the device (or on the paper/metal backup you created). Treat your recovery seed like the master key: keep it offline, never photograph it, and never enter it into a website or software.
Bridge is intended to be a minimal trust layer. It does not and should not have access to any private keys. When signing a transaction, always check the address and amount displayed on your physical Trezor device — that is the ultimate source of truth. If values differ between your computer and the device display, cancel the operation immediately.
Reinstall Bridge if you experience persistent connectivity problems after trying cables and ports. Reinstallation is safe and will not affect your wallet or recovery seed.