Trezor Bridge is a small, local helper application that enables secure communication between your Trezor hardware wallet and a web-based wallet interface in your browser. It runs on your computer and creates a controlled channel for messages to and from the device.
How it works
The site requests permission to talk to the device, and Bridge safely forwards those requests to the hardware. This separation prevents remote servers from directly accessing your hardware wallet, reinforcing the security model.
Security considerations
Always download Bridge from the official Trezor website or verified sources, and verify installer signatures when available. Keep Bridge up to date, and avoid installing third-party software that claims to modify or extend Bridge functionality. When interacting with any wallet interface, ensure you are on the correct website (check the URL carefully), and never run scripts or browser extensions that you do not trust.
Bridge is local-only and does not transmit transaction secrets to remote servers. Consider pairing it with a privacy-respecting node.
Works with desktop OSes and modern browsers. Enterprise restrictions or old browsers may block local channels.
Quick workflow
- Download Bridge from the official Trezor site and install it on your computer.
- Connect your Trezor device using a trusted USB cable.
- Visit a compatible wallet interface and approve the connection when prompted.
- Review transaction details on the site and confirm each signing operation physically on the device.
- When finished, safely disconnect the device or quit Bridge if you prefer not to run it continually.
Safety checklist
- Obtain installers only from official vendor pages.
- Verify checksums or signatures when provided.
- Keep recovery seeds offline and stored securely.
- Confirm transaction details on the Trezor device screen before approving.
FAQ
Will Bridge store my recovery seed? No. Bridge only forwards messages between the browser and the hardware device. The recovery seed should be kept offline and never entered into browser UIs.
Can I use Bridge with multiple Trezor devices? Yes. Bridge can detect multiple devices; select the correct device in the wallet interface.
Is Bridge required for all wallets? Not always. Some apps use different methods, but for many web-based interfaces Bridge is the recommended local communication layer.
Developer note
If you are integrating hardware wallet support consider clear UX for the connect lifecycle, provide meaningful error messages, and never prompt users to enter recovery seeds through a web form. Rely on the device’s built-in confirmation mechanisms for high-security actions.
Wrapping up
Hardware wallets combined with local helpers like Bridge provide a robust pattern for securing private keys while maintaining a straightforward user experience. Always follow security best practices and consult official product documentation for the most current guidance.
The content on this page is educational and descriptive only. It is not financial advice, official technical support, or an endorsement of any particular software package. Always verify downloads from official sources and exercise caution with financial assets. Use Bridge and hardware wallets at your own risk; authors are not liable for losses or damage resulting from software, hardware, or user actions.