5.4 Wireless Bridging Explained

Key Concepts

• Wireless Bridging
• Point-to-Point Bridging
• Point-to-Multipoint Bridging
• Bridge Mode
• Bridge Interface

1. Wireless Bridging

Wireless bridging is a method of connecting two or more networks using wireless signals instead of physical cables. This technique allows devices in different locations to communicate as if they were on the same local network. Wireless bridging is commonly used to extend the range of a network or to connect remote sites.

Example: Think of wireless bridging as a wireless extension cord. Just as an extension cord allows you to power devices far from an outlet, wireless bridging allows devices to connect to a network from a distance.

2. Point-to-Point Bridging

Point-to-point bridging is a type of wireless bridging where two access points (APs) are directly connected using a wireless link. This setup is ideal for connecting two distant networks that cannot be connected using a physical cable. Point-to-point bridging requires a clear line of sight between the two APs for optimal performance.

Example: Consider point-to-point bridging as a direct telephone line between two offices. Just as a telephone line connects two specific locations, point-to-point bridging connects two specific networks.

3. Point-to-Multipoint Bridging

Point-to-multipoint bridging is a type of wireless bridging where one central access point connects to multiple remote access points. This setup is useful for creating a star topology network, where all remote sites connect back to a central hub. Point-to-multipoint bridging is commonly used in large campuses or distributed networks.

Example: Think of point-to-multipoint bridging as a central satellite dish that communicates with multiple smaller dishes. Just as a satellite dish connects to multiple receivers, point-to-multipoint bridging connects multiple remote networks to a central network.

4. Bridge Mode

Bridge mode is a configuration setting on a wireless device that allows it to operate as a bridge rather than a router. In bridge mode, the device forwards traffic between networks without performing network address translation (NAT) or routing functions. This mode is essential for wireless bridging to ensure that devices on both networks can communicate seamlessly.

Example: Consider bridge mode as a toll-free bridge that allows vehicles to pass between two cities without stopping for tolls. Just as a toll-free bridge facilitates smooth traffic flow, bridge mode facilitates seamless network communication.

5. Bridge Interface

A bridge interface is a virtual interface on a network device that connects two or more physical interfaces. In the context of wireless bridging, the bridge interface connects the wireless interface to the wired interface, allowing wireless devices to communicate with wired devices as if they were on the same network segment.

Example: Think of a bridge interface as a virtual tunnel that connects two separate roads. Just as a tunnel allows vehicles to travel between two roads, a bridge interface allows data to travel between wireless and wired networks.