A Network Bridges is a device or software that connects two or more separate networks and makes them function as a single network. It works at the data link layer (Layer 2) of the OSI model, filtering traffic, reducing collisions, and improving communication between network segments.
Bridges are especially useful when you want to extend your network, connect different LANs, or segment traffic to enhance performance. Unlike routers, Network Bridges do not assign IP addresses—they simply forward data based on MAC addresses.
Some common use cases include:
- Connecting wired and wireless segments of a network
- Integrating legacy systems with newer infrastructure
- Improving traffic management in busy networks