What is Trezor Bridge?
Trezor Bridge is a small background application that acts as a secure gateway between your Trezor hardware wallet and desktop or browser wallet interfaces. It enables a private, authenticated connection so your browser or wallet software can communicate with the device without exposing sensitive data. For users seeking a reliable and simple connection method, Bridge provides a local link that reduces friction when sending transactions, checking balances, or managing accounts.
How it works — the basics
Bridge uses local communication channels and strong cryptographic handshakes.
When you plug in your hardware wallet, Bridge runs as a background service on your computer and facilitates messages between the wallet and wallet software. The hardware wallet performs the sensitive operations such as signing transactions and displaying address confirmations — Bridge simply forwards requests and responses securely over the local host. This separation ensures private keys never leave the device and the browser never directly accesses the USB device.
Install & Setup (Safe Steps)
Follow these practical steps to install Bridge safely. Always download Bridge from an official or verified source and confirm checksums when provided. Using official channels minimizes risk of tampered installers.
- Download: Retrieve the Bridge installer for your operating system from the vendor’s verified download page.
- Install: Run the installer and authorize the service to run in the background. On first run the app sets up a local endpoint.
- Connect: Plug in your hardware wallet; open your wallet interface and follow prompts to connect via Bridge.
- Verify: Confirm on the device screen any addresses or transaction details before approving — the hardware display is the final authority.
Troubleshooting common issues
- Browser won’t detect device: ensure Bridge is running (check system tray/menu bar). Restart the browser after installation.
- Permission prompts: some browsers show a permission dialog — allow local connections from the wallet site you are using.
- Driver conflicts: on some OSes, USB drivers can interfere. Reboot and reinstall Bridge if necessary.
- Firewall blocks: Bridge communicates locally; ensure local host traffic isn’t blocked by firewall settings.
Security: Why Bridge is safe
Security is the primary goal. Bridge acts locally and does not send your seed or private keys anywhere. The hardware wallet signs transactions after verifying them on its screen. This design reduces exposure to remote attacks. Still, maintain best practices: keep Bridge and wallet software updated, verify downloads, and never enter your recovery seed into any computer.
Best practices & advanced tips
- Keep the Bridge app and your wallet interface updated to the latest stable releases.
- Use a dedicated computer for large-value operations when possible, and avoid public or shared machines.
- Consider the use of a passphrase or additional security layer if supported and you understand the tradeoffs.
- Create multiple physical backups of your recovery seed and store them offline in separate secure locations.
Integrations & developer notes
Developers building wallet interfaces can leverage Bridge to abstract USB communication complexities from the UI. Bridge provides a consistent local endpoint, simplifying cross-platform compatibility. When developing integrations always follow secure development lifecycle practices and do not request seeds or private keys from users.
FAQ — quick answers
Q: Is Bridge required to use my Trezor on desktop?
A: Many desktop wallet interfaces use Bridge for a smooth local connection; some alternatives exist (like WebUSB) but Bridge improves compatibility.
Q: Can Bridge access my funds?
A: No — Bridge only relays messages; signing happens on the hardware device itself.
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