Wireless Bridges

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Tips & Advice to help you make your decision on Wireless Bridges

Wireless technology has increased in popularity at an exponential rate since its inception. Wireless technologies, like wireless bridges, all allow electronic devices to communicate with one another and exchange data. In simplistic terms, a wireless bridge is a device that is used to connect two or more complete networks of users without wires so that communication and data exchange can take place.

Wireless bridges can be used in both business and home network situations. This type of wireless technology can work with a distance between networks of up to thirty miles, depending on what products are used. This means that, with the right equipment, an individual who has a laptop can travel up to thirty miles away from their home and still use the wireless network bridge that has been created. As long as there is at least one computer in a network that has a wired Ethernet connection to Internet services, all the other computers on the network can use the wireless hardware and software to access one another.

Wireless bridges have two main configurations, which are point-to-point bridges and point to multi-point bridges. Business.com is a great source for further information on this technology and other wireless technologies.

A Guide to Wireless Bridges

Sometimes it is necessary to connect two network segments to make a complete network between devices with wireless bridges, or LAN bridges. This can be done with both wireless and cable connections. You have a couple options, depending on your wireless needs. You can do this within a local network, such as at home, or with a remote bridge to connect two buildings’ networks, for example.

When deciding what you’ll need for a wireless bridge, consider:

1. Direct connection to provide wireless access for another device.

2. Wireless bridges to connect smaller networks to larger ones.

Do You Need A Direct Connection?

This wireless bridge is found commonly in a small business setting or within the home. Some devices don’t have a radio NIC, and it is necessary to substitute this with another network option. Devices such as an Xbox, printer, or other gaming console may require a wireless connection for certain features to be used. Bridging through the device’s Ethernet port is often the only option, but is an option no less. In this case you’ll need to buy a compatible Ethernet bridge to make the connection.
Try: Tiger Direct offers a large selection of devices that would make your wireless bridging a possibility. Devices by brands like Amped Wireless, D-Link and EnGenius are affordable considered a good device.

Small to Large

Connecting your smaller wireless networks to a large Ethernet connection is often called a workgroup bridge and is often the solution for a larger company looking to connect to their LAN. As a larger company looking for better security and management, this is the best option. This bridge acts as a wireless provider and then integrates with a wired network. You can connect with an Ethernet hub that could have multiple connections at once, or singular device, similar to the aforementioned direct connection.
Try: CNet is able to provide you with the equipment and accurate reviews. This makes your decision process a little easier, as you can be sure you’re getting the product the you need. HP offers some affordable options, while Cisco’s device hits a little higher in the price range.

As a connected society, especially within the business setting, keeping connected is indubitably important and can be the difference between getting the necessary information in and out. Staying connected at home or in the office, Wireless bridges can be an effective way to connect multiple devices together.