Bridge

A bridge is a device that provides a connection between two or more local area networks. It allows devices on separate networks to communicate as though they were on the same LAN. A bridge may connect two networks of the same type (e.g. bridging two Ethernet networks) or two different types (e.g. bridging a Wi-Fi network and an Ethernet network).

Network bridges can take several different forms. Many bridges are dedicated hardware devices that only provide a bridge with no additional features; even though a bridge and a router may look similar, a bridge does not assign IP addresses, keep a log of network activity, or provide a firewall. Dedicated Ethernet bridges typically only have two ports to connect to and bridge two routers or switches. Most Wi-Fi bridges have a single Ethernet port and connect to a single Wi-Fi network, giving the device or network connected to the Ethernet port access to the Wi-Fi network as if they were the same network.

Many Wi-Fi access points include a bridging mode feature, although you must activate it through the device's settings before it's enabled.

Bridges and gateways are similar networking devices that both allow separate networks to communicate. Bridges link two LANs that use the same protocol, and operate at the data link layer (level 2 of the OSI model); gateways link networks of different types and work across multiple OSI link layers, converting protocols when necessary.

NOTE: A computer with multiple network adapters may also function as a bridge through software. Windows, macOS, and Unix-based operating systems all include features that allow a computer to bridge two network connections, regardless of the type of connection.

Updated January 31, 2023 by Brian P.

quizTest Your Knowledge

What does "ECC" in ECC RAM stand for?

A
Error-correcting code
0%
B
Enhanced chip calculation
0%
C
Encryption counter
0%
D
Encoded chipset
0%
Correct! Incorrect!     View the ECC definition.
More Quizzes →

The Tech Terms Computer Dictionary

The definition of Bridge on this page is an original definition written by the TechTerms.com team. If you would like to reference this page or cite this definition, please use the green citation links above.

The goal of TechTerms.com is to explain computer terminology in a way that is easy to understand. We strive for simplicity and accuracy with every definition we publish. If you have feedback about this definition or would like to suggest a new technical term, please contact us.

Sign up for the free TechTerms Newsletter

How often would you like to receive an email?

You can unsubscribe or change your frequency setting at any time using the links available in each email.

Questions? Please contact us.