Download & Install
The official Bridge installer is distributed from the manufacturer's start page. Always verify the URL (trezor.io/start) and the digital signatures or checksums when provided. Choose the installer matching your operating system. On Windows you'll get an executable installer (.exe); macOS users will receive a .dmg or .pkg; Linux distributions may have .deb, .rpm packages or a universal binary.
Windows
Run the installer as an administrator, accept the prompts and allow the Bridge service to run. On first run the Bridge will register a local service that manages USB connectivity.
macOS
Open the downloaded .dmg and drag the Bridge app to Applications (or follow the .pkg installer). You may need to grant permissions for USB access and approve the app in System Preferences > Security & Privacy on newer macOS versions.
Linux
Install the package for your distribution and ensure udev rules are in place so non-root users can access USB Trezor devices. Many distros require adding the user to appropriate groups or installing a provided udev rules file.
Troubleshooting & common issues
Bridge works reliably in the majority of cases but problems can occur. Common troubleshooting steps:
- Restart the Bridge service or computer — this resolves many USB state issues.
- Try a different USB cable or port — not all cables support data lines.
- Ensure your OS has the latest updates and that any security software isn't blocking Bridge.
- Reinstall Bridge from the official site if files are corrupted or versions mismatch.
- On Linux, confirm udev rules and permissions; running as root may indicate a permissions misconfiguration.
Browser integration
Many web-based wallets detect Bridge to provide a consistent device connection. If the browser can't find the device, check that Bridge is running (system tray / menu bar icon) and that the browser tab has access to the host. Some browsers or extensions may require specific permissions or flags.
Security considerations
Trezor Bridge is a local-only intermediary and does not transmit your private keys. All signing requests still require physical confirmation on the Trezor device. Security guidance:
- Download Bridge only from the official start page and confirm TLS and checksums when offered.
- Do not run Bridge on untrusted machines. The host computer’s security is still critical.
- Keep Bridge up to date — updates may patch communication or security issues.
- Bridge reduces attack surface compared to direct browser USB access by offering a hardened local API, but it's not a replacement for basic host hygiene.
Alternatives & advanced topics
Advanced users may choose to use native desktop apps (like Trezor Suite Desktop) which include bundled Bridge functionality or to use developer tools that interact directly with device drivers. Some users run Bridge behind firewall rules or in isolated environments for extra safety. For enterprise deployments consider documented procedures for signing, device inventory, and controlled update rollouts.
FAQ
- Is Bridge required?
- For most desktop and web integrations, yes — Bridge simplifies reliable USB communication. Some native apps include their own connector, but Bridge is the recommended general-purpose approach.
- Does Bridge see my keys?
- No. Bridge only routes messages between the host and device. Private keys never leave the hardware device and signing requires physical acceptance on the device screen.
- What if Bridge won’t start?
- Check for OS-level blocks, reinstall the latest version from the official site, and ensure no conflicting software (like another wallet connector) is occupying USB interfaces.
Official link (placeholder): trezor.io/start