Quick setup — step by step
Setting up Trezor Bridge is intentionally straightforward. Download the official Bridge installer from Trezor's website, run the installer, and follow the system prompts. After installation you will typically see a small Bridge icon in your system tray or menu bar indicating it is running. Always verify you downloaded the installer from the official domain and that the installer’s checksums or signatures match the ones provided by Trezor.
Secure installation checklist
- Download only from the official Trezor domain. Avoid third-party mirrors.
- Verify the file checksum when available (SHA256/PGP signatures).
- Install while offline if you prefer an extra layer of safety, then connect to the internet after installation.
- Run Bridge as a normal user; do not give it unnecessary elevated privileges.
- Keep your OS and browser updated to minimize USB/driver vulnerabilities.
How Bridge protects your keys
Trezor Bridge does not store private keys. Its purpose is to forward cryptographic commands securely between the Trezor device and your computer's wallet software or the web interface. All signing operations happen on the device itself and only signed transactions leave the Trezor. Bridge acts as a secure messenger — not a vault.
Compatibility & system details
Bridge supports Windows, macOS, and many Linux distributions. It handles device discovery and abstracts away low-level USB complexities so apps can interact with Trezor in a consistent manner. On Windows, it typically installs a user-level service along with the user-interface helper. On macOS it installs a background helper process and a menu-bar indicator.
Troubleshooting common issues
If your Trezor isn't recognized, try these steps in order:
- Check the USB cable and try a different port — always use a data-capable cable, not charge-only.
- Restart Bridge from the system tray or force-quit and relaunch the app.
- Open the Trezor web interface; sometimes the UI will prompt you to allow device access.
- Temporarily disable interfering browser extensions or other wallet software to see if there's a conflict.
- Reboot your computer if the device still does not appear — this clears driver states and USB hubs.
Security best practices
Using Bridge securely is less about the software itself and more about system hygiene:
- Never enter your recovery seed into a computer. Seeds belong offline, on paper or steel.
- Use a dedicated, minimal computer for crypto operations if you require heightened security.
- Enable device passphrase features if you need plausible deniability or multi-account separation.
- Keep Bridge, Trezor firmware, and companion apps up to date to receive security patches.
- Do not install Bridge from unsolicited links — always navigate to the official site yourself.
Advanced: logs, diagnostics, and consent
Bridge includes diagnostic logs, which are useful when you contact support. Logs may reveal device model information and connection errors but should not contain private keys. When sharing logs with support, inspect them and remove any PII if you are concerned. Bridge will always require explicit user confirmation on the Trezor device for sensitive operations like signing transactions or exporting public keys.
Privacy & data handling
Bridge’s role is minimal and localized: it acts locally on your machine as a conduit and doesn’t forward usage analytics by default. That said, always review the privacy policy on the official site to understand what optional telemetry may exist and how to opt out.
Compatibility with applications
Many wallet interfaces, exchange integrations, and dapps rely on Bridge to present Trezor as an available hardware provider. If an application doesn’t detect your device, first ensure Bridge is running. In web-based wallets, grant permission when the browser asks; in desktop wallets, check the settings for hardware wallet support toggles.
Common FAQs
Q: Is Bridge safe to run in the background?
A: Yes — it is designed to be a lightweight background helper. It only operates on local connections and will not expose private keys. Keep it updated and install official releases.
Q: Do I need Bridge for mobile use?
A: Mobile usage often relies on companion apps and Bluetooth-capable wallets; Bridge is primarily a desktop helper. Check your phone wallet’s docs for Trezor mobile compatibility.
Q: Can Bridge be fooled by malware?
A: Malware that controls your OS or intercepts keystrokes may still cause risk. The key protection is that signing happens on Trezor, but system compromise can still create attack vectors. Follow best practices and consider air-gapped workflows for critical operations.
Conclusion — keep the bridge strong
Trezor Bridge is a focused, secure facilitator: a small trusted helper that keeps the heavy lifting on your Trezor device. If you treat your system carefully, verify downloads, and keep software updated, Bridge is an excellent way to link hardware and software wallets safely. For complex or high-value operations, audit your full environment and consider layered security practices such as dedicated machines and hardware firewalls.