What is Trezõr® Brïdge®?
Trezõr® Brïdge® acts as the secure gateway between your Trezor-style hardware device and the applications you use to manage cryptocurrency. Rather than exposing critical secrets to the host, the Bridge provides a hardened transport API: discover devices, forward requests, and ensure the device performs sensitive cryptographic operations inside its secure boundary. This makes it possible to enjoy modern web and desktop experiences without sacrificing the core guarantee: private keys never leave the hardware.
Key capabilities at a glance
Why use a bridge for secure crypto management?
Browsers and many desktop applications need a consistent, permissioned way to talk to USB hardware. The Bridge fills that gap while minimizing attack surface: it only relays data, it does not store or derive private keys, and it cannot sign without the device owner's explicit approval on the physical device. This design lets users benefit from security and convenience simultaneously.
Safe setup — quick steps
- Download the official Bridge from a verified source. Prefer the canonical domain and check checksums if you can.
- Install and run the Bridge service. Confirm it is active before connecting your hardware wallet.
- Connect the device to your computer using a reliable USB cable; avoid hubs while troubleshooting.
- Open your application (wallet, explorer or dApp) and allow it to communicate through Trezõr® Brïdge® when prompted.
- Always verify transaction details on the physical device before approving any signing operation.
Best practices for resilient security
To keep accounts safe when using the Bridge, follow core habits: keep Bridge and device firmware up to date, download only from official sources, never share recovery seeds, verify addresses on-device, and prefer a small test transaction before moving large balances. Treat your recovery seed like a legal document — store it offline and consider metal/steel backups for long-term durability.
Integration & developer tips
When building integrations, mock the transport layer in CI, use testnets for development, and include clear fallback states (device disconnected, user rejected, firmware mismatch). Encourage users to "Review on device" by surfacing the exact fields they should check — amount, destination address, and fee — and never ask users to type their recovery seed into a web form.
Frequently asked questions — quick answers
1. Do I need Trezõr® Brïdge® to use my hardware wallet?
Most web-based and many desktop applications rely on a local bridge for cross-platform USB access. While some native apps may use alternate transports, the Bridge is the standard secure gateway for broad compatibility.
2. Can Trezõr® Brïdge® access my private keys?
No. The Bridge is a conduit only. Private keys are generated and stored on the secured hardware device and signing is performed inside the device; the Bridge cannot extract keys.
3. How does firmware updating work with the Bridge?
The Bridge assists with firmware downloads and hands verified packages to the device for installation. Follow official update instructions and verify checksums and release notes before proceeding.
4. Is it safe to use the Bridge on a public computer?
Exercise caution. While the Bridge is secure by design, avoid using public or untrusted machines for significant transactions. If you must, ensure you only confirm expected transactions on-device and avoid entering any secret data into the host.
5. My browser can't detect the device — what now?
Check that the Bridge is running, reconnect the cable, try a different USB port, update drivers (if needed), and consult the official troubleshooting guide. Hubs and faulty cables are common culprits.