Trezor @Bridge

A secure hardware-wallet bridge demo — animated 3D preview, step-by-step FAQ, and helpful troubleshooting for common connection issues.

Trezor @Bridge

Connected · Encrypted

Tip: Move your mouse over the 3D device to tilt it. Click a FAQ to expand.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Trezor @Bridge and why is it needed?

Trezor @Bridge acts as a secure communication layer between your Trezor hardware wallet and desktop/browser applications. It bridges USB or WebUSB connections and provides a minimal, encrypted transport so apps can request signatures or public keys without exposing keys to the host system. The bridge handles device enumeration, secure pairing, and a small handshake protocol designed to limit attack surface. Use it when your browser or local app needs to interact with a Trezor device reliably.

How do I install and run the bridge safely?

Installation usually involves downloading an official installer from the hardware wallet vendor and running it with normal user privileges. Always verify checksums or signatures when available. On Windows and macOS, the bridge often runs as a small background service that exposes a controlled local port; on Linux it may use udev rules and WebUSB. After installation, follow the vendor’s instructions to allow USB access and pair your device. If you prefer, many modern browsers now support WebHID/WebUSB natively; in that case a separate bridge may not be necessary.

Which platforms and browsers are compatible?

Compatibility varies by platform and vendor version. Commonly supported platforms include Windows (10+), macOS (10.14+), and many Linux distributions. For browsers, Chromium-based browsers often have the best WebUSB/WebHID support; Firefox support may be limited for certain transport methods. Mobile support is primarily through companion apps that implement Bluetooth or OTG bridging. Check official compatibility guides for the precise versions and whether the bridge is necessary for your OS/browser combination.

Is my recovery seed ever exposed to the bridge or the host?

No. Properly designed hardware wallets keep the recovery seed and private keys inside the secure element or device firmware; the bridge never requests or transports the seed. The bridge only passes signed messages, public keys, or prompts verified actions. You should never input your seed into a computer or the browser; recovery is performed directly on the hardware device when required. If any software ever asks for your seed, treat it as malicious and stop the process immediately.

What should I do if my device isn't detected?

First, try a different USB cable and port — many cables are power-only. Ensure the bridge or browser has permission to access USB devices. On desktop, restart the bridge service and reconnect the device. Check system prompts for permission dialogs. If the issue persists, consult the bridge logs (locations vary by OS) and the vendor support pages. Rebooting the machine and updating the bridge or device firmware are common fixes. Avoid third-party drivers that claim to enable devices; use vendor-provided tools.

How do updates and firmware upgrades work?

Firmware upgrades are performed directly through the wallet's official client and typically require explicit user confirmation on the physical device. The bridge may facilitate data transfer during an upgrade, but it does not modify firmware without your consent. Always read release notes and verify release artifacts when possible. During a firmware upgrade, follow the device prompts exactly; do not interrupt power or disconnect the device until the process completes.

Are there privacy or telemetry concerns?

The bridge itself is designed to be privacy-preserving; it should not send private keys, seeds, or transaction details to external servers. However, some clients or companion apps may request optional telemetry. Review privacy settings and opt out of data collection where desired. When in doubt, run the bridge on an isolated machine or use firewall rules to restrict network access while you perform sensitive operations.

Best practices for secure usage

Keep firmware and bridge software updated, verify downloads, use original cables, and confirm all actions on the hardware display. Enable screen timeouts and PIN protection on the device, and never share your recovery phrase. For large or high-value transactions, consider using an air-gapped signing workflow or verify transaction details on the device screen carefully. Maintain backups of recovery material in secure, offline locations.

Where can I find official support and documentation?

Refer to your hardware wallet vendor’s official documentation, support center, and community channels. Official sites provide up-to-date guides, compatibility matrices, and verified downloads. Avoid unofficial downloads and community forks unless explicitly recommended by the vendor.