From offices to homes, Ethernet devices have become the need of every place. Even a lot of medical and educational institutes prefer using them to gain seamless connection for their multiple Ethernet devices. However, it can be complex to link multiple Ethernet devices. Also, the setup may appear cluttered and messy.
So, is there any solution to these problems?
Yes, the solution is a Wireless Bridge, which allows connecting Ethernet devices with each other without use of cables. With this hardware device, it is possible to connect two or multiple LAN devices.
In this post, we list the best wireless bridges, which are worth purchasing and can give your internet connection an edge. But before that, let us tell you why you must use a wireless bridge.
Table of Contents
12 Best Wireless Bridge Reviews
1. TP-Link Wireless N300 Portable Nano Router, Range Extender, Wi-Fi Bridge TL-WR802N – Pocket-Friendly Meticulous Design
The TL-WR802N is a pocket sized, portable device creating private Wi-Fi hotspot functionality anywhere with seamless internet connection. It can be powered through a USB port or wall outlet.
It operates with 2.4GHz devices such as Chrome cast. Offering a fast speed of 300Mbps it allows efficiently playing games online, stream videos, placing online calls, and doing a lot more.
Why it is unique
This is an incredibly compact device that conveniently fits in your bag, purse, or pocket thereby turning ideal for home use and travel. From Amazon Fire TV to Chromecast, it works well with 2.4GHz devices. Integrated with micro-USB port, it offers flexible powering through USB cable or external adapter.
You can easily establish a secure Wi-Fi hotspot for sharing with friends and family. Earn up to 300Mbps Wi-Fi speed to take care of the essentials or stream HD video. It operates in various modes including bridge, client, access point, repeater, and router.
Buyer’s Experience
It allows creating a superior internal network. This mini router delivers great functionality. Most of the users like the fact that they can carry it along and avail great network connectivity with ease. It comes with USB charger, Ethernet cable, wall adapter, travel pouch, and setup instructions offering convenient setup and use.
Ideal For
It is a versatile travel router ideal for those who want to create a strong network connection wherever they go. Switching between modes is very easy and the small device comes with Ethernet cable and USB cable allowing seamless wired connections.
Pros
Cons
- Pocket sized Wireless N router Travels effortlessly
- Quickly create a secure Wi Fi hotspot to Share with family and friends; External Power Supply 5V/1A
- 300 Mbps Wi Fi speed on 2.4G hertz band for lag Free video streaming and online gaming
- Compatible with Chrome cast
2. TP-Link AC750 Portable Nano Travel, Wi-Fi Bridge, Wireless Device – Straightforward Design Offering Easy Setup
The TP-Link AC750 is a compact and travel-friendly design, which is small enough to put into your purse, pocket, or a small pouch. It offers great internet access wherever you go.
It is a high-powered USB power supply and an inbuilt adapter turning out to be a great solution for students, travelers, or those who have a busy travel schedule.
Why it is unique
This router comes with the next-gen Wi-Fi standard of 802.11ac, which is swifter than wireless N speed. It offers a combined Wi-Fi data transfer rate of 733Mbps thereby adequately serving numerous applications at once.
It comes with the multi-functional USB port allowing you to share media and files through your browser with different computers. The USB port offers power supply to mobile devices such as tablets, smartphones, making it convenient to charge while traveling.
Buyer’s Experience
It is a fully functional router in a small package. It comes with various features like port forwarding, DHCP reservation, DMZ, port range forwarding, and wireless extension. It fits even into the smallest case and comes with an Ethernet cable, micro USB charger, and micro USB cable. Hence, even when you are not at home you can gain a premium network connection.
Ideal For
You must go for this router if you want a single device for efficient home and travel network. It is a cost-effective design packed with numerous advanced features. The interface is easy to use and the setup is simple making it a great choice for professionals, students, and almost all single users.
Pros
Cons
- Travel Sized Design: Conveniently small and light to pack and take on the road, creating Wi Fi network via Ethernet
- Dual Band AC750 Wi Fi: Strong, fast connection for HD streaming on all your devices
- One Switch for Multiple Modes: Perfect for Wi Fi at Home, your hotel room or on the road
- Flexible Power: Micro USB port to an adapter, portable charger or laptop
3. Long-Range TP-Link Outdoor Wi-Fi Transmitter, High Gain MIMO Antenna – Long Range and Cost-Effective
This outdoor wireless bridge by TP-Link is a cost-efficient solution catering to all outdoor wireless applications. It comes with centralized management application system, which is flexible and highly suitable for one point to multipoint and one point to other point connections.
It offers long range for outdoor Wi-Fi applications. The user-friendly design coupled with professional performance, makes this an excellent choice for home and office users.
Why it is unique
This wireless bridge comes with Qualcomm Atheros chipsets and high gain antennas that are engineered precisely with high-quality materials. It is a special design with PoE power supply and enclosures and is perfect for outdoor use. From -40 Degree Celsius to more than 70 Degree Celsius, it can function flawlessly in any climate.
It is specially designed for long distance Wi-Fi transmissions for more than 5kms. The use of MAXtream TDMA technology makes sure you never experience collision and competition within your network.
Buyer’s Experience
It is a superior quality product that comes at reasonable price. For most of the buyers it turned a great solution for their problems. The instruction manual allowed easy setup. It is easy to mount on two connecting pieces of flag pole pipe and in just a few minutes delivered solid performance. It can be re-positioned as per preference to avail of high-end connectivity.
Ideal For
This is a long range wireless bridge inbuilt with system level optimizations delivering performance for more than 5km. The centralized management system allows complete control making it easier to run the system. It is inbuilt with 9dBi and 2×2 dual polarized directional antennas offering efficient performance and turning a perfect fit for almost all the users.
Pros
Cons
- Built in 9dBi 2x2 dual polarized directional MIMO antenna
- Adjustable transmission Power from 0 to 27dBm/500mW. Power Consumption: 10.5 Watts Max, Note: When deployed using...
- System level optimizations for more than 5km long-range wireless transmission (only for paired Point-to-Point or...
- TP Link Pharos tdma (Time Division Multiple Access) technology improves product Performance in throughput, Capacity and...
4. TP-Link AV600 Powerline Ethernet Adapter – Great for Home Network Expansion
The TP-Link Powerline Ethernet Adapter is a great way to quench your requirement for high speed data connection and quick transfer rate. It is a perfect way to enjoy HD videos or 3D video streaming and online gaming at a speed of up to 100Mbps.
Why it is unique
With this device, your home network will completely transform and turn into a house filled with power. It turns the electrical circuit into a high-speed network without requiring additional wires or drilling and bringing a wired network to anywhere in your home where there is a power outlet.
The small, miniature design fits anywhere in the house without being visible. It blends discreetly in any power outlet and saves power to a great extent. The design automatically switches from the working mode to power saving capability and reduces energy consumption up to 85%.
Buyer’s Experience
The compact design of this device fits perfectly in the buyer’s home décor. The high-quality of service regularly monitors wireless transmission for an efficient network. They are able to extend their network for high speed to a great extent without adding wires or drilling holes.
Ideal For
It is an excellent device for those who do not want to compromise on quality. You must pick it if you want full network coverage in your entire house. It gives enhanced Wi-Fi coverage ensuring you are able to perform all online activities easily.
Pros
Cons
- Fast speed: Wired connection with high speed data transfer rate, ideal for HD video or 3D video streaming and online...
- Plug and Play: No new wires and no configuration required; Step 1: connect 1 adapter to your router. Step 2: plug in...
- Network expansion: The TL-PA4010 KIT transforms your home's existing electrical circuit into a high-speed network with...
- Miniature design: Smaller than most Powerline adapters in the market, blends discreetly in front of any power outlet
5. IOGEAR Ethernet – 2 – Wi-Fi, GWU637, Universal Wireless Adapter –High Performer and True Value for Money
With the IOGEAR Ethernet to Wi-Fi connector, you can enjoy absolute freedom of wireless connectivity for all your Ethernet enabled devices in the office or home. Use it if your devices are not inbuilt with Wi-Fi as this one comes with universal compatibility. The convenient setup offers clean cable connections with devices like gaming consoles, Blu-rays, HDTVs, and more.
It uses dual antennas of 2T2R to deliver high data range of 300Mbps and great speed coupled with awesome bandwidth. Hence, all you get is superior connection, faster music downloads, file transfers, rich online gaming, video streaming, and complete convenience.
Why it is Unique
Along with great speed and extended coverage, this device holds universal compatibility and lets you connect with your existing routers. While the compact design lets you avail of setup anywhere in your home, the USB port requires no power outlet enabling fast and simple connection.
You can immediately connect it with your network with just a button. It is supported with WPA, WEP, TKIP, AES and WPA2 encryption standards that ensure your network is secured and your data stays protected.
Buyer’s Experiences
The buyers confirmed that it does exactly what it says. It comes with rich Wi-Fi capabilities and offers seamless connection. The setup is easy on laptop, TV, and other devices and allows internet connection immediately. It does not require separate plugging for power. It comes with 2’ Ethernet cable and the wall adapter does not block adjacent electrical plugs in the wall outlet.
Ideal For
The IOGEAR is an ideal pick for those who want secured and convenient network setup. It is a high – performer holding universal compatibility and immediately connects to preferred devices. The compact design allows easy placement. Backed by free lifetime support ensures you have complete peace of mind.
Pros
Cons
- Powered By Usb - No Need For Power From An Outlet, This Device Is Powered By A Usb Port Giving You More Freedom To Place...
- Convert Ethernet To Wi-Fi On Any Device - Enjoy The Freedom Of Wi-Fi Connectivity For Any Of Your Ethernet Enabled...
- Turn Legacy Gadgets, Printers, Voip Into High Speed Wi-Fi Enabled Devices - Older Laptops, A/V Receivers, Network...
- Maximize Transfer Speeds - Using Dual Antennas, The Adapter Delivers Data Rates Up To 300Mbps. The Increased Speed...
6. NETGEAR Wi-Fi Range EX2700 Extending Coverage to 800Sqft, Connect 10 Devices – Works Great and Easy Setup
Now cover all the Wi-Fi dead zones in your home with the Netgear Wi-Fi range extender offering excellent coverage of 800sqft. It is easy to install, discreet, and convenient, offering great boost to the Wi-Fi for all devices.
It allows creating secured wired connection with game consoles, smart TVs, and other devices and boosts the speed and range of your existing network.
It is equipped with external antennas offering Wi-Fi coverage and enhanced speed. The compact design allows space saving installation while keeping numerous devices connected at once.
Why it is unique
It is a compact and sleek design offering extended wireless coverage of 600sqft. It connects 10 devices at once like smartphones, IP cameras, laptops, IoT devices, tablets, and more. Holding universal compatibility, it works with all wireless router, cable modem, gateway, and modem with Wi-Fi systems.
For a secured wired Ethernet port connection you only have to plug the game consoles or other wired device to the port for enhanced speed.
Buyer’s Experience
This router has proven to be a great extension to wireless connections. It can be used with small home setups and small offices and can reach the signals to a long range. But you must not expect long signal range without extender. At times the connection is weak. Most importantly, the setup is simple and it is equipped with WPS button offering complete security.
Pros
Cons
- EXTENDED WIRELESS COVERAGE: Adds Wi-Fi range coverage up to 1000 sq ft, and connects up to 15 devices such as laptops,...
- AC750 WI-FI SPEED: Provides up to 750Mbps performance using dual-band and patented FastLane(TM) technology.
- UNIVERSAL COMPATIBILITY: Works with any wireless router, gateway, or cable modem with Wi-Fi.
- WIRED ETHERNET PORT: Simply plug in game consoles, streaming players, or other nearby wired devices using the one...
7. D-Link Wi-Fi AC750 Dual Band Range Extender – Excellent Range Extension
Whether you want an all new setup or want to enhance the power and capability of your existing single band router, this Wi-Fi range extender will optimally serve your requirements.
It will transform your single band router into a double band wireless device that extends the network access for multiple wireless devices like smartphones, laptops, tablets, and others.
Why it is unique
Powered by dual band technology, it reduces network interferences from nearby wireless signals in the house. As a result, you are able to gain uninterrupted functionality, speed, and full convenience.
The next-gen technological base offers you enhanced range, reliability, and speed to make sure you gain optimal coverage throughout the house. You can place the range extended anywhere in your house to enhance the wireless network capability.
Buyer’s Experience
For buyers, it is a great device integrated with multiple advanced functionalities. The performance is great and they are able to perform all their favorite activities with full ease. It does extend the range to a great level, making it an ideal fit for every home.
Ideal For
This router is compatible with most of the wireless router bands. It is portable, compact, and does not need additional power cables. The advanced safety encryptions make sure you always gain a secured and trouble-free wireless connection.
Pros
Cons
- Extend the coverage of your home's existing wireless network
- Up to 750 Mbps (300 Mbps 2.4GHz and 433 Mbps 5GHz)
- High speed wireless AC connectivity for your laptops, smartphones and tablets
- Easily add dual band coverage to your existing single band router
8. NETGEAR Wi-Fi Mesh Range Extender EX6150 – Great Mesh Technology
No need to think more about the hard-to-reach areas of your house as the Netgear Wi-Fi mesh extender is here to serve you. Ideal for both indoors and outdoors, it is a premium built loaded with exceptional functionalities and offering advanced capabilities like smart roaming, universal compatibility, and a lot more.
Why it is unique
Designed for serious streaming, it is a great solution to gain up to 1200Mbps speed for performing flawlessly demanding activities like online gaming and HD streaming. Based on smart roaming technology it simplifies lives by allowing you to stay connected with a single network name. The best part is that you can auto-switch to your preferred network at any time when you want.
Furthermore, you may intelligently select between its dual bands to have a strong and secured connection for your network. It reduces interference and enhances speed for your house to become a platform of smart wireless devices.
Buyer’s Experience
For buyers the setup is a breeze. They witnessed excellent Wi-Fi coverage and were able to easily carry data at higher speeds. They were able to easily connect wireless as well as wired devices for uninterrupted speed and faster connectivity. This universally compatible solution is a router to hassle-free reliability.
Ideal For
Gain the connectivity you have always required for flawless functioning of your laptops, smartphones, iPads, and other smart devices. Making playing games and online streaming fun and easy, it is an ideal pick for every modern home.
Pros
Cons
- Extended wireless coverage: Adds WiFi range coverage up to 1200 square feet, and connects up to 20 devices such as...
- Seamless smart roaming: Uses your existing network SSID name so you never get disconnected as you move around your home...
- Ac1200 wifi speed: Provides up to 1200mbps performance using dual-band and patented fastlane technology for demanding hd...
- Universal compatibility: Works with any wireless router, gateway, or cable modem with WiFi.
9. TP-Link N450 3TER Access Point, TL-WA901ND Wireless Adapter Passive POE – Durable and Lasting Service
Engineered to expand or establish a fully scalable high-speed wireless network, the TP-Link wireless bridge allows connecting multiple Ethernet allowed devices like digital media players, gaming consoles, network attached storage units, printers, and more to a wireless network.
Supporting a myriad of functions, it offers a flexible and robust wireless networking. From gaming, downloading to video streaming, it ensures you can practice all applications easily. It offers a wireless transmission rate of 450Mbps and supports numerous operating modes like wireless bridge, universal repeater, client, and access point.
Why it is unique
This wireless bridge offers an operating speed of up to 30 meters. Supported with IEEE 802.11n MIMO technology, it works simultaneously through 3 antennas based on smart antenna technology to Rx and Tx to combat the signal degradation and interference even through long distances.
Leading to remarkable enhancement in wireless performance, it is engineered using high-quality steel, and hence, holds lasting durability. It is powered with RJ45 Ethernet port, supports passive PoE, and is equipped with hi-end wireless standards.
Buyer’s Experience
This device comes with 100m Ethernet port that offers clean setup without being visible. The high bandwidth offers great connection needed to perform different applications. It would have been better if the device was equipped with gigabit port.
Ideal For
It offers a great signal rating and allows to easily performing most of the applications that need continuous data connectivity. It is packed in compact design but is highly durable offering long-lasting service. It is easy to setup and renders strong signals.
Pros
Cons
- 450Mbps wireless transmission rate, brings smooth wireless N experience
- Supports multiple operating modes: Access Point, Client, Universal/ WDS Repeater, Wireless Bridge
- Easily setup a WPA encrypted secure connection at a push of the QSS button
- Up to 30 meters (100 feet) Power over Ethernet capability for flexible deployment
10. NETGEAR AC1200 Wireless Access Point Dual Band – Ideal for Small Setups
The NETGEAR AC1200 is a dual band antenna that delivers great performance for small setups. It supports dual band concurrent operations at 5GHz and 2.4GHz with a combined output of 300Mbps and 867Mbps. It offers great ease of use in standalone access point operating mode.
Why it is unique
This wireless bridge offers more value to money as it is equipped with 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports that extend the wired network connection to a great extent. It is a reliable and fast solution that is backward compatible allowing legacy devices to link at their quickest speed. Equipped with 880MHz processor it features external antennas offering robust and far-reaching Wi-Fi signals and data transferring speed.
Buyer’s Experience
It is a great solution to extend Wi-Fi network coverage. It comes with multiple access points and offers long range connectivity. Though the setup is quite complex but it is compatible with most of the devices. It is a great solution for small homes and office setups.
Ideal For
This wireless bridge offers fast double band 802.11ac and an aggregate speed of 300Mbps that is perfect to cater to applications needing heavy internet connection. The factory tuned antennas offer far and superior signal strength. It comes with flexible and advanced security wireless configuration allowing seamless connection.
Pros
Cons
- Maximum Range : 1000 Sq Ft
- Fast dual band 802.11ac WiFi at a combined aggregate speed of 1.2 Gbps (300Mbps at 2.4 GHz and 867Mbps at 5 GHz)
- Factory tuned external antennas provide superior signal and far reaching WiFi coverage
- Advanced Security and Flexible Wireless Configuration - access point, and WDS point-to-point, point-to-multipoint...
11. Huawei E5577Cs – 321 LTE Mobile Wi-Fi Hotspot, Huwaei Without Carrier Logo – Travel-Friendly Companion
Perfect to use as a wireless modem with Wi-Fi enabled, this wireless bridge from Huwaei is a great pick for those who want to connect multiple devices at once. It allows convenient internet access through 3G/LTE. You can use it in areas with Wi-Fi hotspot to avail of Wi-Fi connection automatically, thereby saving network traffic load.
It comes in a rich, professional design supporting a download speed of 150 Mbps and download speed of 43.2 Mbps. The single charge allows working for 6 hours and 300 hours standby.
Why it is unique
It is a professional-grade product allowing connecting 10 Wi-Fi enabled devices to let you have seamless home entertainment or travel network. It comes with TFT-LCD screen designed with 2D barcode offering convenient connection. The menu-style LCD supports multiple languages. You can connect it to all networks using SIM card of your preference.
Buyer’s Experience
This compact device comes with great capabilities. It functions well but sometimes may not be able to connect to the Huawei app. It can be adjusted and connected to preferred devices and even when linked to multiple devices allow great connectivity. The battery life is limited.
Pros
Cons
- Huawei E5577Cs-321 OEM, ORIGINAL from Huawei / WITHOUT CARRIER LOGO. Original box and software
- Supports a rapid download speed up to 150 Mbps 4G LTE and 43.2 Mbps 3G download. So enjoy your incredibly fast Internet...
- Offers up to 6 hours of working time and up to 300 hours of standby. Ideal for tourists going abroad. WiFi 802.11a/b/g/n...
- TFT-LCD screen with 2D Barcode easy connection. Features menu-style LCD UI with multiple language support
12. Lutron Caseta Smart Bridge Wireless, Works with Alexa, L-BDG2 – Smart Connectivity
With the Lutron Caseta wireless bridge, you can control shades, lights and temperature from your mobile device. It offers a robust network connection and allows complete control and convenient setup.
The bridge comes with a wireless dimmers and remote controlled shades from the tablet, smartphone, and even your wearable. It offers great connectivity and ensures you gain great performance most of the times.
Why it is unique
It is a smart bridge that is engineered with advanced technologies. It is ultra-responsive and superfast and works well even when the Wi-Fi connection within your existing system is low. It works with all kinds of existing wiring networks and also allows operating various smart appliances in your home.
Buyer’s Experience
This bridge hooks up to the network through Ethernet cable and broadcasts less utilized frequency offering reliability. It regularly updates or changes the Wi-Fi broadcast and can be paired with most of your devices.
Ideal for
This device works with Alexa and hence is perfect for those who already own Alexa and want to extend their home network. It allows convenient and simple setup, which makes it perfect for those who do not want to engage into much hassle. It is a cost-effective solution ensuring you gain optimal performance.
Pros
Cons
- Connects with more leading smart home brands (including Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit, the Google Assistant, Ring, Serena...
- Works with Alexa to support dimming or switching the lights on/off through voice control (Alexa device and Caséta...
- Easy to use and simple to set up; just connect to your router and follow app instructions
- Clear Connect Technology does not interfere or compete with Wi-Fi connected devices
Editor’s Choice
- Pocket sized Wireless N router Travels effortlessly
- Quickly create a secure Wi Fi hotspot to Share with family and friends; External Power Supply 5V/1A
- 300 Mbps Wi Fi speed on 2.4G hertz band for lag Free video streaming and online gaming
- Compatible with Chrome cast
We would like to pick two wireless bridges from our list.
The first one is TP-Link Long Range Outdoor Wi-Fi Transmission with MIMO Antenna. It is a cost-effective solution offering long range extension. It comes with a centralized management system and caters to numerous wireless applications.
You can avail of single point and multipoint connections. With advanced security system, user-friendly design, multiple modes operation, and double polarized MIMO antenna integration, it is proven to offer professional performance without troubling your pocket.
Our other pick is TP-Link N300 Wireless Portable Nano Router, Wi-Fi Bridge, which is a great travel-friendly solution. It is a portable yet powerful device offering high speed of 300Mbps. It fits easily into your purse or bag and comes with different operating modes like access point, client, bridge point, router, and repeater.
It is a versatile router where switching between modes is very easy. It is perfect to gain seamless wired connection and comes with high security, parental controls, and performs well in extreme temperatures.
What is a Wireless Bridge?
A wireless bridge is generated by connecting 2 access points together. The first point works as an access point and the other point works as a station or client point. A wireless bridge is used to span buildings and offer a more economical technique than leasing private line or laying cable. Wireless bridges used within a building or home are useful for connecting remote devices to a Wi-Fi network.
It makes possible to connect any Ethernet cabled device to a wireless network without requiring driver installation. As a result, the cabling work is reduced to a great extent. Wireless bridging makes internet connections possible with ease.
Wireless Repeater VS Wireless Bridge
Both wireless repeaters and bridges are networking devices. The wireless repeater is also called a range extender. A wireless bridge enables non-wireless devices to easily connect to wireless networks.
Wireless Repeater
Using a repeater it is possible to boost the signal traveling through a network cable. The voltage of a signal reduces after a particular distance because of attenuation. If you need to cover a greater distance, two cables are joined together using a repeater.
With the help of a repeater it is possible to boost the signal’s voltage so that it can easily travel over the second path with more power. It does not manage limitations on cable length.
Wireless Bridge
A bridge connects two different segments of a network and is useful for diving up a big network into segments. This reduces the numbers of devices in contention on each network section. Within the home network, devices that enable non-wireless equipment connect to the Wi-Fi network as wireless bridges or Ethernet bridges.
It links to the non-Wi-Fi equipment through a cable and to the wireless network using a radio transmitter. It, therefore, connects the wireless and wired segments together for a strong home network.
Best Wireless Bridge Buying Guide
The most important aspects you must consider while picking the best wireless bridge are as follows.
- Wi-Fi Repeater Mode
The Wi-Fi repeater mode is a small departure from linking in Wi-Fi organizing. It allows devices in different areas to interact with one another. The repeater mode allows expanding remote sign of a single system to longer separation for a huge reach. This feature covers all dead spots of your home and ensures offering a smooth connection.
- Wi-Fi to Ethernet Bridge
This is another feature to consider that allows Wi-Fi clients to link with the Ethernet arrangement. The device is coordinated with Wi-Fi passage and is important for all gadgets and seasoned PCs.
- Speed
It is a highly important aspect to consider when picking a wireless bridge. Make sure the wireless bridge you select offers a high speed of at least 867Mbps for 5GHz and 300Mbps for 2.4GHz.
- Security
The security of your network is of utmost importance. Your model security matters a lot as only then it can offer your entire network with complete security thereby protecting your sensitive information and details. Hence, make sure you select a wireless bridge integrated with advanced security settings.
- Dual Band, Single Band or Tri-Band
A single band wireless bridge allows conducting applications involving low band frequencies. The common single band frequencies are 5GHz and 2.4GHz.
A single band can accommodate a total of 30 devices over an area of 103meter. But single bands are prone to interferences from cell phones, Bluetooth devices, Wi-Fi hotspots and other electronics.
Dual band wireless bridges use both bands and offer consistent and faster connections. It allows performing various applications at once like video streaming and gaming.
The tri-band wireless connection uses 2.4GHz and dual 5GHz bands that imply less intervention, more support to devices, more bandwidth, and extended coverage.
- External or Internal Antennas
If you are looking for indoor installation, you must go for wireless bridges with internal antennas. The external antennas are designed primarily for taxing, commercial, and industrial environments. With these antennas, you can enhance the network coverage and improve the connectivity.
- Stand-Alone VS. Controller-Based
If you have a small business setup, you must go for stand-alone access points. However, they offer slightly weaker connectivity. The load and bandwidth balancing cannot be controlled.
The controller-based access points are costlier than stand-alone access points, but they offer centralized management system. Efficient configuration, advanced WPA2 encryption, firmware updates, and policy setting are other advanced features of this wireless bridge.
- Multiple SSID
SSID are useful for multiple broadcasting access points. They are useful from single access point and the signal passes to network switch to the VLAN network, which holds a particular security standard to access guest devices. However, if too many services are performed, it may slow the system.
How Does a Wireless Bridge Works?
A wireless bridge comes in different modes.
In bridge mode, the wireless devices allow two or more wireless access points to connect and link to their respective local networks.
In repeater mode, there is a variation on bridging in Wi-Fi networking. It allows devices in different networks to communicate with each other. It is therefore a great option for longer distances.
There are also Wi-Fi range extenders available that work as Wi-Fi repeaters. They are useful to expand the range within the home network to eliminate black spots or dead areas with a weak signal.
You may place the wireless bridge in the range of signal of your wireless router and within a cable’s length of the wired devices. If the router is Wi-Fi protected, you can easily set it up. Just press the WPS button on the bridge and router for linking them wirelessly. The WPS comes with DAP-1522 support.
Your router must have a Wi-Fi Protected Setup logo to make ensure it supports the ideal security standards. If there is no such option, you may connect the bridge to your PC through Ethernet to configure the bridge.
The back-end of wireless bridge is connected to router or LAN switch. For two network segments to interact, each data pack travels from local router / Ethernet to wireless bridge of other LAN segment. The best thing is that a wireless bridge can connect more than one wireless bridge simultaneously.
Why Use a Wireless Bridge?
A wireless bridge comes with numerous rich features and benefits, which makes them worth investing your money. Have a quick glance at why a wireless bridge is beneficial over a wired connection.
- Excellent Compatibility
The wireless bridges are useful for covering big areas and extended geographical distances. They offer stronger signals even when multiple devices are connected simultaneously. Buying a good wireless bridge offers great compatibility with most of the devices. This way, a single bridge is sufficient to gain network connection over numerous devices.
- Rich Antenna Settings
The most essential component of a wireless bridge is its antenna. It is because these antennas are responsible for transferring as well as receiving signals. A professional-grade wireless bridge comes with customizable and reliable antenna settings ensuring you receive seamless signal reception.
- Dual or Multiple Bands
There are single-band wireless bridges available that are ideal for lightweight data and PCs. The best wireless bridge comes with dual band offering fast and robust connection. Such devices make it very easy to perform applications that require heavy data consumption.
- Signal Reception
The reception for signal depends largely on high-quality engineering and antenna settings. The signal transmissions and receptions are core features of a wireless bridge, and must be reliable and strong. Only then you can expect uninterrupted and superior performance. The best wireless bridges mentioned in our list are proven to offer smooth, fast, and consistent signal reception for enhanced user experience.
- Connect Devices with Ethernet Connectivity
Wireless bridges allow connecting devices with only Ethernet connection to a wired network. If there are devices like gaming consoles or Blu-Ray players with just Ethernet connection, they can be used to connect to a bridge. The bridge can be then used for wireless capabilities for connecting to the network.
As a result, you can avail of connectivity without the need to rewire your home or office setup.
How to Setup a Wireless Bridge?
You would be glad to know that it is extremely simple to set up a wireless bridge. Here are the ways in which you can set up the wireless bridge connection.
Bridging Using WDS
Most of the modern bridges and routers come with the feature of WPS or Wi-Fi Protected Setup that allows connecting devices to the protected network without the need to input a password. All you have to do is push the WPS button and your connection will begin.
For devices that come with WPS functionality, this is the simplest way to avail of the connection. You just have to set up the bridge in a position or place where it is easy to access the wireless network. You can then connect it through Ethernet to the device that has to be connected to the network. Once the setup is done, you can press WPS button on your bridge and router.
In just a few seconds, your connection will develop and you can enjoy using it.
Manually Bridging
If your bridge or router lacks the feature of WPS button, you can then go for the option of manually bridging. This implies connecting the device to a computer using Ethernet connection and connecting to the wireless network manually.
Also, you can go for this option if you are concerned with the security offered by the automated setup.
Once you connect the router to a computer, you can enter the IP address of your wireless bridge into the web browser. This is essential to access the page setup.
Next, you need to log into the bridge. For this, you have to check the manual and login details of manufacturer. If there is any change or you are not aware about it, you can reset the factory settings within the bridge.
Finally, you have to search the network and connect the same by entering your Wi-Fi password.
There can be situations when there is only one Ethernet port but you have to connect multiple devices. In this situation, you must buy a switch, which is equipped with numerous Ethernet ports. It will consider your one Ethernet connection and allow you connecting multiple devices to the same. It will take one Ethernet connection and let you connect numerous devices.
If you are curious to know about the Best router for multiple devices then we have something for you. Check it out!
Frequently Asked Questions [FAQs]
Q1. Can Wireless Bridges truly extend the network?
A1. Wireless bridges are perfect to enhance network coverage over wired and non-wired setups. They always offer a dedicated and strong connection to the network, which is not susceptible to interferences.
Q2. What is the difference between a wireless repeater and a bridge?
A2. The difference between a wireless bridge and a repeater is that the repeater is meant to only extend the network range while using a bridge allows connecting two networks together. A wireless bridge connects more than single network of signals together.
Q3. What does a bridge mode means in access points?
A3. The bridge mode enables two or multiple wireless access points to interact with each other with the aim of joining numerous LANs. A few wireless bridges support just a single point connection to other Apps. There are others that support multiple point connections to numerous other Apps.
Q4. How long a wireless bridge can reach?
A4. Wireless bridges works well over a long distance of 10 miles but it needs that you aim correctly. It makes sure there is a clear line of sight between both the antennas.
Q5. What is the difference between access point and wireless bridge?
A5. A bridge connects individual networks using the existing home network to all devices linked to the bridge. A wireless access point links users to the network by generating a wireless signal they use.
Q6. What is a point to point wireless bridge outdoor? Which one is the best?
A6. For wireless networking, a point-to-point wireless bridge allows users to wirelessly link two or more locations with each other. The Wi-Fi networking capability holds a bridging mode that allows communication between two or multiple wireless access points. This allows building strong multiple LANs or Local area networks.
The TP-Link CPE510 is one of the top-notch outdoor wireless access points to consider. Featuring a long rectangular plastic built in white matte finish, it has no antennas. Though it does not offer 360 Degrees coverage, it renders great signal strength ensuring you get the best performance in the direction it is pointed towards.
Another option to consider is the EZ-Bridge Wireless System, which is a great choice for those who want long transmission distance. It offers a range of 3 miles coverage and is very easy to pair by just dialing, without the need to use GUI. It comes with LED indicators that indicate you when the product is functioning or not.
Q7. Which is the best wireless Ethernet Bridge?
A7. When it comes to best, there is no competition to the QWNET Wireless Bridge Kit. Packed with a myriad of features, it meets every practical necessity and requirement without restricting your range. You gain a clutter free setup. The kit is pre-configured and takes all time consuming technicalities from the installation. The best part is its enhanced protection is its lightning protection from mishaps.
Conclusion
With a wireless bridge, it is possible to connect two or more networks without the need of engaging into a wired setup. It is a great way to connect Ethernet only devices to the network.
The best thing is that these bridges are affordable and simple solutions and can combat intricate network problems. The setup is even more economical if you have an existing router.
Hence, pick the best wireless bridge from the abovementioned list to gain numerous benefits and uninterrupted network connectivity.
Last update on 2024-07-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API