Trezor* Bridge is a background application that securely connects web wallets and desktop software to Trezor hardware wallets.
It acts as a small local server between a user's browser and the USB-connected device, ensuring encrypted, permissioned,
and reliable communication. This document provides an accessible, colorful presentation-style format with internal interlinking
between headings (h1 → h2 → h3 → h4 → h5) and emphasises three core keywords used for cross-references:
Use these keywords as anchor shortcuts inside your documentation or single-page presentations so readers can jump between
conceptual sections quickly. Below are structured subsections (h2–h5) each referencing at least one of the three keywords
via interlinks, meeting the requirement for cross-linking across headings.
At a high level, Trezor* Bridge runs as a local process. When a web application wants to communicate with the hardware wallet,
it issues a request to a local URL handled by the Bridge. The Bridge validates origins, forwards messages to the device using
the device protocol, and returns responses. The user experience is designed to be seamless: plug in the device, unlock it,
approve transactions on the device screen, and the web app receives signed responses.
Key user steps (h3)
- Install Bridge once per machine (small installer).
- Connect Trezor device via USB or compatible connection.
- Open supported wallet (web or desktop); wallet detects Bridge.
- Approve requests on-device; Bridge relays signed data back to the app.
For an improved compatibility experience, ensure browsers and OS are supported and Bridge is up to date.
Security model (h3) — security
Security is the central pillar of Trezor* Bridge. The hardware wallet keeps private keys isolated; Bridge merely transports
requests and responses. Important design points:
Isolation & least privilege (h4)
The device performs cryptographic operations; Bridge does not expose private keys. Bridge enforces origin checks and will only
accept requests from permitted web origins, reducing the attack surface between browser plugins or malicious pages and the hardware.
Explicit user confirmation (h4)
Transaction signing and sensitive actions require explicit confirmation on the physical device. This ensures that even a compromised
host cannot sign transactions without the user's consent.
For developers: always ensure the front-end displays human-readable transaction details and encourages users to verify them on-device.
Refer back to user-experience for flow expectations.
Bridge is available for major desktop operating systems. Common compatibility notes:
- Windows 10/11: native installer & background service.
- macOS: signed installer, permissions may be requested for USB access.
- Linux: distribution-specific packages and manual install options.
Browsers and web apps should use standard WebUSB or Bridge-compatible transports when available. If there are browser restrictions,
the documentation should point to the troubleshooting section for fixes.
Cross-link to security for considerations about driver permissions and how OS-level
policies can affect safe operation.
Troubleshooting & best practices (h5) — troubleshooting
Common issues and resolutions:
Problem: Bridge not detected
• Ensure Bridge is installed and running. • Check OS prompts for USB permission. • Restart browser and/or Bridge service. • Try a different USB cable.
Problem: Browser blocks connection
• Verify browser supports required transport. • Disable interfering extensions (ad blockers, privacy tools) temporarily. • Use the recommended browser for the best user-experience.
Best practices
- Keep Bridge and device firmware up to date for security fixes.
- Download Bridge only from the official source to avoid tampered installers.
- Use trusted web wallets and confirm transaction details on-device every time.
For advanced diagnostics, collect logs from the Bridge application and check compatibility notes under compatibility.
Appendix — Quick reference & internal links
Use the following internal anchors to jump directly between sections or to reference the three keywords across headings:
This single-file presentation is intended for use as a printable handout, a sharable HTML page, or a basis for slide conversion.
Customize the keywords or add more interlinks if you want denser cross-referencing.