Computer networks are not as easy to implement as they seem, especially when it comes to maintaining the security of the data. Developers use various devices to make computer networks more secure, efficient and easier.
One such device is a bridge. It is a computer network device that helps you to divide a computer network into multiple segments. This whole division process is known as bridging in computer networks.
This gives your system more flexibility and enhances the range of your network. But there are multiple other reasons why bridges are used in computer networks.
Here, we have curated a list of all the reasons why bridges are preferred over other network devices. However, let's begin with understanding what you mean by bridges in computer network.
Bridging In Computer Networks
In computer networks, bridges are used to link different LANs together in a wider Local Area Network. This whole process of dividing the network into multiple segments is known as bridging.
Bridges are most commonly used to divide the given network into different network sections. Each of these sections will now have an individual bandwidth and collision domain which in turn increases the performance of the whole network.
Types of Bridges
Three types of bridges are used in a computer network. These include
Source routing bridge
Transparent bridge
Translation bridge
Source Routing Bridge
The source routing bridge is used specifically for networks with token rings. The entire route of the frame is embedded along with the data frames. This is done by the source station to ensure that after forwarding the data packet, it should follow the pre-decided and correct path.
Transparent Bridge
These types of bridges are not visible to any other device present in the network. Such bridges do not configure the network again after adding or deleting any station present on the network. The major function of the transparent bridge is to forward or block the message or data packet on the basis of the destination MAC address.
Translation Bridge
These bridges are used to convert the data from one system to another. Also, such bridges are used to transfer data between different kinds of networks.
Uses of Bridges In A Computer Network
Increase Network Capacity
Since bridges allow you to integrate various LANs in one system, the network capacity of your system increases. This decreases the hustle to integrate multiple LANs into your system. Bridges divide the given computer network into multiple segments to transmit the data. You can also use a wireless bridge to connect multiple wireless networks.
Data Filtration
When the network receives a data frame, the database will access the bridge to decide if the system will accept the data or not. A bridge is used to filter the data depending on the destination or MAC address.
In case the destination MAC address of the frame is the same as in the network, a bridge will pass that frame to the desired node. After that, it will discard that frame.
However, in case the destination MAC address of the frame is present in the connected network, the bridge will then forward that frame to the desired node.
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