Dictionary · Networking Hardware
Bridge
Devices · Intermediate
A device that connects two network segments and forwards frames based on hardware addresses. A modern switch is many of these joined in one chassis.
It separates collision areas while still belonging to the same broadcast domain unless another control splits it. Historically it had two ports; switching extended the idea.
Example: Two small segments are joined so local frames reach the correct side without repeating every collision across both.
Common misconception
- A basic bridge does not route between protocol networks. It forwards local frames.