What is bridge mode | Definitions, Basics, and its Working

What is bridge mode and how does it work? This article talks about it and breaks down the basics. Let's go!

Do you want to know what Bridge Mode is and how to configure two Wi-Fi routers to function as one? Learn when, how, and why to utilize bridge mode. You may have come across a setting known as bridge mode when changing your router's SSID or using WPA2 encryption for increased protection. Let's learn about it:

What is Bridge Mode?

Bridge mode is a router mode that disables router functions so that you may use your ISP's router-modem equipment exclusively as a modem in conjunction with your router. When combining your own Wi-Fi router with your internet service provider's hardware, there's a feature buried away in many routers that performs an important job. Here is all you need to know about bridge mode. Bridge mode is deactivated by default. You may, however, enable it by entering the router's dashboard. That doesn't imply you should go ahead and enable the setting right now. 

How Does Bridge Mode is Setup?

You can follow this procedure for most of the routers out there. Before you start bridging, make a note of the Wi-Fi settings of the primary network to which this router will connect. Take note of the SSID, Wi-Fi security mode, wireless password, and operating frequency which will be 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz. Open a web browser from the device connected to the network of the router in bridge mode. Enter the address of your router with conventional HTTP and .com formats. 

Then enter the router's username and password on the login page. Navigate to Settings > Advanced Settings > Advanced Setup > Wireless Bridge to begin. Check the Enable Bridge Mode option. Setup Bridge Mode should be selected. From there enter the other router's settings (wireless frequency, SSID, Wi-Fi security). Your preferences have been saved. The router will reboot and go into bridge mode. Note that Wi-Fi security must be activated on your network router for the best online privacy and security. This guarantees that every device connected to the Wi-Fi network is protected by encryption, ensuring the privacy of your online activity. 

Applications of Bridge Mode:

In this section, we will focus on applications after explaining the question of what is bridge mode. Not everyone needs bridge mode for their home network, but if you do, it's a must-have function that will save you a lot of trouble. Bridge mode is most commonly used to connect improved network devices to an ISP-supplied modem-router combo box. Historically, many internet service providers (ISPs) provided you with a modem and left you to set up a router and Wi-Fi connection on your own. 

It is now increasingly typical for ISPs to provide an all-in-one appliance that combines an internet modem, a router, and a Wi-Fi access point. It's so common that many individuals are unaware that the modem and router duties are distinct. If What is the significance of this? If you want to enhance your home network, you can't just buy new equipment and slap it on top of the equipment provided by your ISP. This will result in a slew of issues.  

Bridging is also quite useful if you want to enhance the range of your Wi-Fi. While its applications are not confined to enterprises, it is mostly employed in large-scale workplaces and commercial locations where a single router is not a practical choice. You'll receive decent coverage if you're near the ISP-provided Wi-Fi router. However, as you travel away, you begin to lose signals, and the device no longer connects to the Wi-Fi network. It is a good solution for this problem since it "bridges" the connection to the distant network and expands the range.

Devices connected to the routers will not interact with each other if numerous routers are linked to a single ISP-provided modem/router. It enables you to connect more devices, increase Wi-Fi coverage, provide quicker speeds, and enhance dependability.

Conclusion:

Since now we know what is bridge mode and how it works, we can now state that it is very beneficial in terms of its applications. But it does come with some problems as well. The main downside of utilizing it is that it restricts several of the router's functionality. Bridge mode may deactivate useful features like parental controls, MAC address filtering, and others.