What is Trezor Bridge?
Trezor Bridge is a lightweight, background application designed specifically to facilitate communication between your Trezor hardware wallet and your internet browser. In the early days of hardware wallets, browser plugins were commonly used to establish this connection. However, as browser technologies evolved and security standards became more rigorous, direct plugin support was deprecated. Trezor Bridge was developed as the robust, modern solution to fill this gap.
Acting as a local server on your computer (running on 127.0.0.1:21325), the software creates a secure tunnel that allows web-based interfaces—such as Trezor Suite Web or third-party wallets like MetaMask—to detect and interact with your device via USB. It operates entirely in the background without a graphical user interface, ensuring that your experience is seamless and uninterrupted.
Without Trezor Bridge, your computer's browser would lack the necessary protocols to "speak" to the hardware device, rendering it invisible to web applications. It is a critical component for users who prefer web-based management over desktop applications, providing the same level of security and functionality that Trezor users expect. Whether you are signing a transaction, verifying an address, or updating firmware, Trezor Bridge is the silent facilitator making it all possible.
How It Works
Understanding the mechanics behind the secure connection.
1. Local Communication Server
Once installed, Trezor Bridge runs a local process named `trezord`. This process listens for signals from your USB ports specifically looking for Trezor devices.
2. Browser Request
When you visit a compatible website (like Trezor Suite Web), the site sends a request to the local Trezor Bridge server asking if a device is connected.
3. Secure Handshake
The Bridge verifies the request and establishes an encrypted channel. It passes data back and forth, allowing you to approve transactions on your device while viewing details on your screen.
Background Process
Runs silently as 'trezord'
$ status: active$ port: 21325$ device: detected$ connection: secureKey Features
Why Trezor Bridge is the industry standard for hardware wallet connectivity.
Enhanced Security
By isolating the communication layer from the browser's core processes, Trezor Bridge minimizes attack vectors. It ensures that only authorized data packets are transmitted to and from your device.
Always Up-to-Date
The software is designed to be low-maintenance. While it runs in the background, it ensures you have the latest communication protocols necessary for new firmware features and asset support.
Universal Compatibility
Whether you use Chrome, Firefox, or Brave, Trezor Bridge standardizes the connection method. It eliminates browser-specific quirks (like WebUSB limitations) for a consistent experience.
Lightweight Performance
Optimized to use minimal system resources. The `trezord` process is efficient, consuming negligible CPU and RAM, so it won't slow down your computer while you manage your portfolio.
System Requirements
Ensure your system meets these criteria for optimal performance.
- Windows: Windows 10 or newer (64-bit)
- macOS: macOS 10.14 (Mojave) or newer
- Linux: Modern distributions (Ubuntu, Fedora, Debian) x64
- Hardware: USB 2.0 port or higher
Installation Guide
Visit the official Trezor website and navigate to the download section.
Select your operating system from the dropdown menu to download the correct installer.
Run the installer file and follow the on-screen prompts. No configuration is needed.
Once installed, refresh your browser page. Your Trezor device will now be detected automatically.