Trezor Bridge™® | Connect Your Trezor to Web Browsers™

1. Introduction: The Silent Guardian of Your Assets

In the world of cryptocurrency, security is only as strong as your weakest link. While your Trezor device keeps your private keys offline, those keys still need a way to "talk" to the internet when you want to send a transaction. This is where Trezor Bridge comes in.

Trezor Bridge is a lightweight communication protocol—often called a "local server"—that runs quietly in the background of your computer. Its primary job is to act as a translator between your hardware device (connected via USB) and your web browser (like Chrome, Edge, or Brave).

2. Why Do You Need Trezor Bridge in 2026?

Historically, browsers used plugins to talk to hardware. However, plugins are often prone to security vulnerabilities. Trezor Bridge replaced these outdated plugins with a more stable, encrypted system.

Key use cases today include:

  • Trezor Suite Web: If you don't want to install the full desktop application, you can manage your assets via suite.trezor.io/web using the Bridge.
  • Third-Party Integrations: Connecting your Trezor to platforms like MetaMask, MyEtherWallet, or Exodus often requires the Bridge to facilitate the handshake.
  • Legacy System Support: For older operating systems or browsers that do not fully support WebUSB standards, the Bridge remains the gold-standard reliability fix.

3. Core Features & Performance

  • Encrypted Communication: Every packet of data sent between your browser and your Trezor is encrypted, ensuring that "man-in-the-middle" attacks cannot intercept your transaction details.
  • Zero-Configuration: Once installed, you don't need to "open" the app. It starts automatically with your computer and waits for a Trezor to be plugged in.
  • Cross-Platform Harmony: Whether you are on Windows 11, macOS Monterey (or newer), or a Linux distribution, the Bridge provides a uniform experience.
  • Battery & Resource Friendly: Designed to be ultra-lightweight, it consumes negligible CPU and RAM, staying out of your way until it's needed.

4. Step-by-Step: How to Install Trezor Bridge

If you are prompted by a web application that "Trezor Bridge is not running," follow these steps:

  1. Download: Visit the official Trezor website and navigate to the "App" or "Bridge" section.
  2. Verify: Ensure the file provider is SatoshiLabs or Trezor Company s.r.o.
  3. Install: Run the installer and follow the on-screen prompts.
  4. Permission: On macOS or Linux, you may need to grant permission for the software to access your USB ports.
  5. Restart Browser: It is highly recommended to close and reopen your browser after installation to ensure the new communication pathway is recognized.

5. Trezor Bridge vs. Trezor Suite Lite

With the introduction of Trezor Suite Lite (the mobile companion), many users ask if they still need the Bridge.

  • Trezor Bridge is for Desktop Web connectivity.
  • Trezor Suite Lite is for Mobile (Android/iOS) tracking and basic transactions. If you are using a laptop or PC to interact with DeFi or Web3, the Bridge (or the integrated version inside the Suite desktop app) is still your primary tool.

6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Is Trezor Bridge safe to keep running all the time? A: Yes. Trezor Bridge does not have access to your private keys or your recovery seed. It only handles the "transport" of data. Without your physical device plugged in and your PIN entered, the Bridge has nothing to communicate.

Q2: My browser still doesn't see my Trezor. What should I do? A: First, ensure you are using a Chromium-based browser (Chrome, Brave, Edge). Firefox and Safari have limited WebUSB support. Second, check your USB cable; "Charge-only" cables will not work—you must use a data-transfer cable.

Q3: Do I need to install Bridge if I already use the Trezor Suite Desktop App? A: No. The Trezor Suite desktop application has the Bridge functionality built-in. You only need the standalone Bridge if you are using the web-based version of the wallet or certain third-party sites.

Q4: Does Trezor Bridge support the new Trezor Safe 5? A: Yes, the latest version of the Bridge supports the entire Trezor lineup, including the Model One, Model T, Safe 3, and the flagship Safe 5.

Q5: Can I use Trezor Bridge on a Chromebook? A: Officially, Trezor Bridge is designed for Windows, Mac, and Linux. For Chromebooks, it is recommended to use the Trezor Suite Web interface via Chrome, which utilizes WebUSB protocols rather than the standalone Bridge software.

7. Official Resources & Verification

Always ensure you are downloading software from genuine sources to avoid phishing attempts.