Installing and Using Bridge
Installation is intentionally simple. Download the official installer (or package for your distribution), run it, and Bridge will register a secure local endpoint that Trezor Suite® and compatible websites use to communicate with your device. Most modern systems only require one installation; subsequent software updates detect Bridge automatically.
Quick setup steps
- Download Bridge from an official source (links in the sidebar).
- Run the installer and grant permissions if prompted.
- Open Trezor Suite® or a compatible web app — it will detect Bridge and your connected device.
- Follow on-screen instructions to manage accounts, sign transactions, or check firmware.
How Bridge Protects Your Keys
It’s crucial to understand that Bridge never has access to your private keys. Those keys remain inside your Trezor hardware wallet and never leave the device. Bridge’s role is limited to transporting encrypted commands and signatures between the host application and the device. The following points describe the security model in plain language:
- Device-first confirmations: Every transaction or sensitive action must be confirmed on the Trezor device itself. Bridge cannot authorize transactions without your explicit consent on-device.
- Local communication: Bridge opens a local-only endpoint (loopback address) so websites and apps can talk to the device without exposing traffic to the network.
- Integrity checks: Applications and Bridge verify firmware and signatures to prevent tampering and ensure authenticity.
Common issues & troubleshooting
If Bridge doesn’t detect your device, try the following:
- Ensure the device is unlocked and the screen is on.
- Reconnect the USB cable or try a different port/cable.
- Restart Bridge or your computer and check for operating system permissions blocking USB access.
- Reinstall Bridge from the official installer if the issue persists.
Integrations and developer-friendly APIs
Developers can integrate with Bridge using well-documented APIs. This allows decentralized applications and wallets to offer native hardware wallet support without requiring users to install browser extensions. Bridge acts as the stable, secure transport layer that many projects rely on to provide a consistent user experience across platforms.
Learn more
Whether you are a casual user or a developer, understanding Bridge’s responsibilities helps you make informed security decisions. For advanced topics like headless setups, enterprise deployments, or debugging logs, follow the official links below and consult developer documentation.
FAQ
Q: Is Bridge required to use my Trezor?
A: Bridge is required for many desktop and web experiences that use USB connectivity. Some advanced users opt for alternative setups (e.g., direct firmware tools or specialized integrations), but Bridge is the recommended, supported method for most users.
Q: Can Bridge access my recovery seed?
A: No. Bridge does not and cannot access your recovery seed. Private keys and seed material are always stored on the device itself.
Q: How do I update Bridge?
A: Bridge can be updated via an official installer. In some distributions, package managers are available; in others, automatic update notifications appear when a new release is published.
This page provides a practical, approachable overview of Trezor Bridge® — the small but essential component that makes modern hardware wallet experiences smooth, secure, and cross-platform. For full technical details, security advisories, and downloads, use the links in the sidebar.