Trezor Bridge®

Secure & smooth communication between Trezor devices and desktop/web apps

A lightweight, trusted bridge that enables:

  • Encrypted USB/WebUSB communication with Trezor hardware
  • Compatibility with Trezor Suite and third-party web apps
  • Simplified user experience without exposing private keys
Key: private keys stay on-device • Bridge = communication layer
Presenter: You • Date: 2025
Trezor Bridge Overview

Why Trezor Bridge?

Problems solved vs alternatives
  • Browser security: avoids need for deprecated extensions
  • Cross-platform: same behaviour on Windows/macOS/Linux
  • Improved UX: fewer permission prompts and driver issues
  • Encrypted link: minimizes attack surface for MITM attacks

Bridge acts as a local secure proxy between the app and the Trezor device — keeping signing on-device and user interaction intact.

Takeaway: Bridge improves security & UX

Architecture & Flow

High-level data flow
  1. User opens Trezor Suite or web app
  2. App sends request to local Trezor Bridge process
  3. Bridge relays request to device via USB/WebUSB
  4. User authorizes action on device; Bridge returns signed transaction
  5. App broadcasts signed transaction to the network
App ⇄ Bridge (local) ⇄ Trezor Device ⇄ (only signed tx) ⇄ Network
Note: Bridge does not store keys

Installation & Setup

Windows, macOS, Linux

Steps

  • Download Bridge from trezor.io/bridge (official site)
  • Run installer and start the Bridge process
  • Open Trezor Suite or a supported web app; allow connection
  • Authorize device actions by entering PIN on the Trezor

Tips

  • Always verify the download URL & checksum
  • Use official apps to avoid supply-chain risks
  • Keep Bridge updated for compatibility
Install note: prefer official downloads

Security Considerations

How Bridge maintains safety
  • Encrypted local communication between app and Bridge
  • Private keys never leave the Trezor device
  • Bridge runs locally — no remote key exposure
  • Bridge checks firmware signatures and device integrity
  • User confirmation is required for every sensitive action

Threat model

Bridge protects against common host-side threats but assumes attacker may control host OS — critical actions are still confirmed on the Trezor screen.

Reminder: device = single source of truth

Common Issues & Troubleshooting

Quick fixes for users

Device not recognized

  • Check cable & USB port
  • Restart Bridge & Trezor Suite
  • Reinstall Bridge if necessary

Browser connection problems

  • Try a supported browser (Chrome/Edge/Firefox)
  • Disable conflicting extensions
  • Use incognito/private window to rule out cache issues

Firmware updates

Ensure stable connection; do not disconnect during update. If update fails, consult official support and logs.

Logs & diagnostics helpful for support

Best Practices

Operational security checklist
  • Download Bridge & Suite from official sources only
  • Keep firmware and Bridge up-to-date
  • Confirm addresses on the Trezor screen before signing
  • Store recovery seed offline (metal backup recommended)
  • Use separate accounts for different purposes

Advanced

Run Trezor Suite with a personal Bitcoin/full node or connect through Tor for enhanced privacy.

Adopt layers of security — defense in depth

Integrations & Ecosystem

Where Bridge fits in the ecosystem

Works with

  • Trezor Suite (desktop & web)
  • MyEtherWallet, MyCrypto
  • DeFi dapps that support hardware wallets
  • Exchanges and fiat on-ramps that accept hardware signing

Enterprise use

Bridge can be integrated into secure signing workflows, HSM alternatives, and air-gapped signing setups (with appropriate controls).

Bridge = interoperability layer

Demo Flow (Live / Recorded)

What to show during demo
  1. Start Trezor Bridge and open Trezor Suite
  2. Connect device & enter PIN
  3. Show account balances and create a transaction
  4. Verify address on-device and sign transaction
  5. Show the signed tx leaving the device (optional: explain the payload)

Tip: Have a backup device ready for demo glitches and use a testnet or small amounts for live demos.

Demo prep: test beforehand

Questions & Answers

Open floor

Invite audience questions. Suggested prompts:

  • How does Bridge differ from browser extensions?
  • What are the privacy implications when using Suite?
  • How is firmware verified?

Presenter note: emphasize that sensitive approvals always happen on the device display.