What Is Trezor Bridge?

Why You Need It

• Compatibility Across Browsers and OS: Supports major browsers (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Safari) and operating systems (Windows, macOS, Linux).:contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

• Improved Security: Comms are encrypted locally; no browser extension means a smaller attack surface.:contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

• Smoother User Experience: Runs silently in the background, auto‑detects your device, auto‑updates.:contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

• Legacy Extensions Obsolete: Supersedes old Trezor Connect or Chrome extensions that are now deprecated.:contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

Installation & Setup

1. Go to the trezor.io/start page and download the correct Bridge installer for your OS (Windows, macOS, or Linux).:contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

2. Run the installer and follow the prompts—installation is simple and swift.:contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}

3. Restart your browser after installation to ensure the Bridge launches properly.:contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}

4. Connect your Trezor hardware wallet via USB. The Bridge will automatically detect it.:contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}

5. Open Trezor Suite (web or desktop). If using the web version and your browser lacks WebUSB support, Bridge enables the connection.:contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}

How It Works

Security Considerations

• Open‑Source & Signed: Bridge is PGP‑signed by SatoshiLabs and open for community audits, ensuring authenticity.:contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}

• No Key Exposure: Your private keys never leave the device. The Bridge only enables encrypted comms.:contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}

• Download Only from Official Sources: Avoid imposters—always use trezor.io/start.:contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}

• Community Insight:

"Even if you download an imposter bridge… the real address will still show on the device. As long as you are double checking, it doesn't matter.":contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}

Troubleshooting Tips

• If Bridge isn’t detecting your Trezor, check your system tray (Windows) or menu bar (macOS) to ensure it’s running. Restart browser and device if needed.:contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}

• Try a different USB port or cable—faulty hardware often causes connection issues.:contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}

• Ensure no conflicts with antivirus, VPN, or browser security settings. Disable or whitelist Bridge if necessary.:contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}

• On Linux, ensure no conflicting processes like an outdated `trezord` are running. Uninstall older versions before installing the latest.:contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}

• In browsers with native WebUSB (like Chrome or Edge), Bridge may not be required. But for others like Firefox or privacy-focused browsers (e.g., Tor), Bridge is often mandatory.:contentReference[oaicite:21]{index=21}

• If using Tor Browser with WebUSB unsupported, Bridge will need custom settings (e.g., port exceptions) to work—be careful!:contentReference[oaicite:22]{index=22}

Future Outlook & Note on Deprecation