Guide: What Trezor Bridge does and how to manage it
Trezor Bridge is the background helper that used to allow desktop apps and browsers to communicate with a Trezor device over USB. It acts like a small local server that translates browser or app requests into secure USB interactions with the hardware device. This guide explains when Bridge is required, how to configure or remove it safely, and practical troubleshooting steps.
Core idea
The Bridge component provides a consistent interface across operating systems so applications can request device actions such as retrieving public keys or signing operations. Over time, official desktop applications have integrated device communication directly; this changes when and how Bridge is needed.
When you still need Bridge
If you use a web-based interface that does not include built-in device communication, Bridge may remain necessary. However, modern official applications are shifting to consolidated apps that provide direct connectivity, so many users will not need standalone Bridge going forward.
Install and verify safely
Always obtain Bridge or the official management application from the vendor's primary site. Verify the downloaded package by comparing checksums or using the official installer channels. Prefer the official desktop application where provided, as that usually contains the latest combined connectivity stack and reduces the need for separate helpers.
How to remove Bridge cleanly
If you decide to remove the standalone Bridge, use the provided uninstaller for your operating system or follow vendor instructions. Removing a deprecated standalone helper removes potential conflicts and ensures your system uses the most current recommended client stack.
Troubleshooting tips
• Reconnect: unplug and plug the device into a different USB port.
• Update: make sure your desktop app or helper is the latest release.
• Restart: reboot the host OS after installing or removing low-level connectivity components.
• Permissions: on some systems a small service needs correct permissions to claim USB devices — follow official steps if access is blocked.
Security considerations
Device interactions are local and cryptographically secured by the hardware. Avoid untrusted third-party helpers and always prefer vendor-provided installers and release notes. Keep firmware and software updated following official guidance to keep the signing environment trustworthy.
Developer note (for integrators)
If you integrate hardware wallet support into an app, prefer official SDKs and current APIs. Treat device communication as a local API call and avoid shipping or suggesting unsigned binaries to end users.
Final checklist
• Verify source of installer. • Keep software updated. • Uninstall deprecated helpers when official clients are used. • Follow vendor troubleshooting steps if communication fails.
# Example: check for Bridge service on local machine (illustrative) # Replace with official vendor commands when available # (Do not run unknown scripts; this block is explanatory)