Trezõr brïdge® | Connect Your Web3 World Securely™
Trezõr brïdge® is the secure communication layer that links your Trezor hardware wallet to web applications and browser tools. It enables safe signing, account discovery, and transaction workflows while keeping private keys isolated from the web. This guide explains how the bridge works, how to install it, and best practices for secure usage.
What is Trezõr brïdge®?
Trezõr brïdge® acts as an encrypted messenger between your Trezor device and web-based wallets, decentralized applications (dApps), or browser extensions. Instead of exposing private keys to the internet, the bridge facilitates authenticated requests — transactions and signatures are prepared by the web app, then approved and signed on-device. This preserves the cold-storage security model while allowing modern Web3 interactions.
The Bridge supports multiple connection types (USB, WebUSB, and platform-specific helpers) and works with official Trezor software like Trezor Suite and many third-party integrations that respect hardware confirmations and verified firmware checks.
Why use the Bridge?
- Security-first connectivity: Private keys remain on the hardware device; the bridge only forwards signing requests.
- Easy integration: Developers can integrate hardware-backed signing into dApps without building low-level USB protocols.
- Cross-platform support: Works with desktop and supported browser environments for a consistent user experience.
- Phishing resistance: All critical operations require on-device confirmation, limiting the effectiveness of malicious websites.
Install & set up
Follow these steps to install Trezõr brïdge® and connect your device safely:
- Download from the official source: Go to trezor.io/start to get the recommended Bridge or Trezor Suite package for your platform.
- Install the Bridge or Suite: On desktop, install the native Bridge application or use the Trezor Suite bundle which includes communication support.
- Allow permissions: When connecting via WebUSB in the browser you may be prompted to allow access. Grant access only on trusted sites and always verify the domain.
- Connect your device: Use the official USB cable and connect your Trezor. Accept any prompts displayed on your device screen.
- Verify firmware: Trezor Suite will check firmware signatures and suggest updates if needed. Always install official firmware signed by SatoshiLabs.
The bridge installation is lightweight and runs as a background helper on most platforms. Trezor Suite bundles the required components to simplify setup for most users.
How it works — under the hood
When a dApp requests a signature, the following flow occurs:
- The dApp prepares a transaction or message and sends it to the browser extension or Trezor Suite.
- Trezõr brïdge® transmits the request to the connected Trezor device using a secured channel.
- The Trezor device displays transaction details (recipient address, amount, fees) on its screen for user verification.
- The user approves the action on the device; the private key signs the transaction internally.
- The signed transaction is returned to the dApp via the bridge and broadcast to the network.
This flow ensures that even if the host computer or browser is compromised, attackers cannot forge transactions without the physical device and user confirmation.
Security considerations
Trezõr brïdge® is designed with layered defenses:
- Device verification: The device shows exact transaction details so users can detect tampering or false prompts.
- Signed firmware: Only firmware signed by the vendor should be accepted — the bridge and Suite verify signatures automatically.
- Origin checks: Browsers require explicit permission for WebUSB connections. Grant access only to trusted domains.
- No seed export: The bridge never transmits recovery seeds or private keys — these remain inside the secure element.
Troubleshooting common issues
- Device not detected: Try a different USB port or cable, ensure Bridge/Trezor Suite is running, and restart your browser or computer.
- Permission denied: If using WebUSB, double-check the requested domain and re-grant access via browser settings.
- Connection drops: Update Trezor Bridge or Trezor Suite to the latest version and verify firmware is current.
- Unsupported dApp: Confirm the dApp explicitly lists support for hardware wallets; use Trezor Suite for full compatibility when in doubt.
For in-depth troubleshooting, visit the official support resources at trezor.io/support.
Best practices for safe usage
- Always download Bridge or Suite from trezor.io/start.
- Verify the Trezor device screen for transaction details before approving.
- Keep your device firmware and Bridge/Suite updated.
- Use a dedicated, trusted computer where possible and avoid public or untrusted machines.
- Store your recovery seed offline and consider metal backups for durability.
- Revoke WebUSB permissions for sites you no longer trust via browser settings.
Developer integration
Developers building dApps can leverage documented APIs and libraries that interoperate with Trezõr brïdge®. Implementing proper transaction previews, clearly presenting UX prompts, and avoiding automatic approvals are crucial to user safety. Refer to the official developer documentation and SDKs for best integration patterns.