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What is a Bridge? A bridge is a device that
connects 2 or
more networks and forwards packets between them using
the MAC layer source and destination addresses. Bridges
have the same net number on either side.
When do I need a Bridge? You need a bridge if you want to connect
two LANs or if you want to add more nodes to a
LAN that has reached its maximum distance limits. A Bridge also helps separate high
traffic areas of your LAN. |
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What is a Router? A router acts much like a
bridge, but operate using different methods. Routers use the IP portion
of the transmission packet to access the network address.
They can find the best route between networks even if thereare several networks in
between. Routers have different net numbers on each end.
When do I need a Router? You need a router if you want to connect
to the internet, or if you need to connect multiple networks. Routers offer network
management capabilities making it a wise choice for LANs. |
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