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<h2 dir="ltr" id="tag-2">What is bridge mode?</h2>

<p dir="ltr">Bridge mode, a configuration option for routers, is deactivated by default. </p>

<p dir="ltr">By logging into the router's dashboard, you do have the choice to activate bridge mode.</p>

<h3 dir="ltr" id="tag-5">Definition</h3>

<p dir="ltr">Bridge mode is a setting that allows numerous routers to connect and extend WiFi coverage in your office/home. </p>

<p dir="ltr">Bridge mode solves this problem by allowing several routers to share a single WiFi network. </p>

<p dir="ltr">Furthermore, it disables the modem's NAT feature and allows a router to function as a DHCP server without causing an IP address dispute.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:center"><em><img alt="" src="http://gospeedcheck.com/filemanager/data-images/imgs/20221027/bridge-mode-vs-access-point%20(2).png" style="height:375px; width:640px"></em></p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:center"><em>Bridge mode</em></p>

<p dir="ltr">Let's look at an example. </p>

<p dir="ltr">Assume you wish to print a photograph wirelessly from your smartphone. </p>

<p dir="ltr">If you use a router as an extender, your smartphone may be linked to the extender while your printer is connected to the modem/router provided by your ISP.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Both networks are private in this case, and your smartphone will be unable to communicate with your printer in order to print the image.</p>

<h3 dir="ltr" id="tag-18">Pros &amp; cons</h3>

<p dir="ltr">By extending the WiFi range, you can use WiFi for applications such as gaming and video streaming.</p>

<p dir="ltr">You can cease using several adapters for each device.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Notably, you can connect to numerous devices such as your Smart TV, game consoles, NAS, and Blu-ray player over WiFi.</p>

<table align="center" border="3" cellpadding="10" cellspacing="2"><tbody><tr>
<td>
			<p dir="ltr">Pros:</p>

			<ul>
<li dir="ltr">
				<p dir="ltr">Easy WiFi range expansion</p>
				</li>
				<li dir="ltr">
				<p dir="ltr">Lowers network congestion</p>
				</li>
				<li dir="ltr">
				<p dir="ltr">There is no need for several adapters for each device</p>
				</li>
			</ul>
</td>
			<td>
			<p dir="ltr">Cons:</p>

			<ul>
<li dir="ltr">
				<p dir="ltr">Buffering and relays cause slower speeds</p>
				</li>
				<li dir="ltr">
				<p dir="ltr">Inability to independently filter broadcast traffic</p>
				</li>
			</ul>
</td>
		</tr></tbody></table>
<h2 dir="ltr" id="tag-41">What is access point?</h2>

<p dir="ltr">An Access Point (AP), also known as a wireless hotspot, is one of the most regularly used networking tools. </p>

<p dir="ltr">The AP mode is used to protect a Local Area Network (LAN) and provide Internet access to multiple devices.</p>

<h3 dir="ltr" id="tag-44">Definition</h3>

<p dir="ltr">An access point is a device that forms a wireless local area network, or WLAN, often in an office or big building. </p>

<p dir="ltr">An access point connects to a wired router, switch, or hub via an Ethernet connection and broadcasts a WiFi signal to a specific region. </p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:center"><em><img alt="" src="http://gospeedcheck.com/filemanager/data-images/imgs/20221027/bridge-mode-vs-access-point%20(3).png" style="height:376px; width:640px"></em></p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:center"><em>What is access point?</em></p>

<p dir="ltr">For example, if you want to offer WiFi connectivity at your company's reception area but don't have a router nearby.</p>

<p dir="ltr">You may put an access point near the front desk and send an Ethernet cable through the ceiling back to the server room.</p>

<h3 dir="ltr" id="tag-54">Pros &amp; Cons</h3>

<p dir="ltr">Well, using access point mode, the ACL (Access Control List) can control guest access to increase security and effectively manage users within the network.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Also, it promotes improved wireless network performance while keeping the wireless signal intact in comparison to a range extender.</p>

<table align="center" border="3" cellpadding="10" cellspacing="3"><tbody><tr>
<td>
			<p dir="ltr">Pros:</p>

			<ul>
<li dir="ltr">
				<p dir="ltr">Easily extends WiFi range</p>
				</li>
				<li dir="ltr">
				<p dir="ltr">Allows several users to connect to a network</p>
				</li>
				<li dir="ltr">
				<p dir="ltr">WiFi is dual-band capable</p>
				</li>
			</ul>
</td>
			<td>
			<p dir="ltr">Cons:</p>

			<ul>
<li dir="ltr">
				<p dir="ltr">With an increase in devices, network stability decreases</p>
				</li>
				<li dir="ltr">
				<p dir="ltr">Potential security threats</p>
				</li>
			</ul>
</td>
		</tr></tbody></table>
<p dir="ltr"><em>See more: <a href="https://gospeedcheck.com/article/virgin-wifi-booster-set-up-1095"><strong>Add device to Optimum WiFi</strong></a></em></p>

<h2 dir="ltr" id="tag-80">A comparison of Netgear bridge mode vs access point</h2>

<p dir="ltr">The main contrast between <strong>access point vs bridge mode</strong> is the end result. </p>

<p dir="ltr">Although both of them provide radio link connectivity through a computer network, it still has distinct differences. </p>

<p dir="ltr">Let’s find out what they are!</p>

<h3 dir="ltr" id="tag-85">Connection speed</h3>

<p dir="ltr"><strong>Access point vs bridge mode speed</strong>, which one is better?</p>

<p dir="ltr">If you want to extend the wireless connectivity of non-wireless equipment in your house or company, access point mode is the ideal option. </p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:center"><em><img alt="" src="http://gospeedcheck.com/filemanager/data-images/imgs/20221027/bridge-mode-vs-access-point%20(4).png" style="height:360px; width:640px"></em></p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:center"><em>Connection speed</em></p>

<p dir="ltr">Furthermore, your Internet connection should stay responsive on all connected devices. </p>

<p dir="ltr">However, a router bridge is preferable for transporting data between two distinct networks. </p>

<p dir="ltr">You'll need a router with a bridge mode, which most routers offer.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Remember that there is a significant difference between a business router and a residential router.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Besides, if you want to check your connectivity, try running a <strong>WiFi speed test</strong>. </p>

<h3 dir="ltr" id="tag-100">Cost</h3>

<p dir="ltr">What comes with a better price: <strong>access point vs bridge mode</strong>?</p>

<p dir="ltr">AP mode expands a wireless network by connecting LAN and Ethernet wires to additional access points. </p>

<p dir="ltr">As a result, you'll need to buy more supplies to give wireless connectivity to several devices.</p>

<p dir="ltr"> As long as you have the necessary equipment, establishing a wireless bridge is as simple as turning a switch and maybe some software setting.</p>

<h3 dir="ltr" id="tag-106">Stability</h3>

<p dir="ltr">In terms of Internet access, AP mode should be your first choice, especially if you have more than one wireless client. </p>

<p dir="ltr">If you want a faster speeds, look for tips on <strong>how to make WiFi faster</strong>.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Furthermore, there is no better way to acquire wireless connectivity to a wired device. </p>

<p dir="ltr">A router bridge, on the other hand, is a good solution if you're concerned about integrating software components across other devices on a distinct network.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Although the connection is great, it is not perfect for extending Internet access.</p>

<p dir="ltr">So, if you wonder which one to use between <strong>access point mode vs bridge mode</strong>, have a look at this info:</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:center"><em><img alt=" A comparison between bridge mode and access point" src="http://gospeedcheck.com/filemanager/data-images/imgs/20221027/bridge-mode-vs-access-point-1.png" style="height:531px; width:640px"></em></p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:center"><em>A comparison between bridge mode and access point</em></p>

<p dir="ltr">You can also refer to this comparison chart when it comes to <strong>Linksys bridge mode vs access point</strong> or <strong>Asus bridge mode vs access point</strong>.</p>

<h2 dir="ltr" id="tag-123">When to use Netgear bridge mode or access point mode?</h2>

<p dir="ltr">Both <strong>wireless bridge mode vs access point</strong> are excellent for expanding the WiFi range to cover a larger region based on their functionalities. </p>

<p dir="ltr">When you want to connect your Netgear router to several wireless devices, the AP mode is better. </p>

<p dir="ltr">If you wish to use your router to connect to numerous routers, use the Bridge mode. </p>

<p dir="ltr">This setting disables the NAT, which would otherwise cause conflicts due to the generated mesh of WiFi systems.</p>

<p dir="ltr">As previously said, the Netgear router will be set to AP mode by default. </p>

<p dir="ltr">If you want to change the configuration to Bridge mode, you'll need at least two routers for this.</p>

<ul>
<li dir="ltr">
	<p dir="ltr">First, make a note of the WiFi security mode, SSID, operating frequency (2.5GHz/5GHz), and wireless password of the router 1 to which you will connect</p>
	</li>
	<li dir="ltr">
	<p dir="ltr">Next, go to router 2's web interface and <a href="https://www.netgear.com/home/services/routerlogincom/">log in</a></p>
	</li>
	<li dir="ltr">
	<p dir="ltr">From the main page, select Advanced, Advanced Set-Up, and Wireless Bridge</p>
	</li>
</ul>
<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:center"><em><img alt="" src="http://gospeedcheck.com/filemanager/data-images/imgs/20221027/bridge-mode-vs-access-point%20(5).png" style="height:240px; width:640px"></em></p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:center"><em>Change the configuration to Bridge mode</em></p>

<ul>
<li dir="ltr">
	<p dir="ltr">Check the box next to Enable Bridge Mode under Wireless Bridge</p>
	</li>
	<li dir="ltr">
	<p dir="ltr">Set up Bridge Mode Wireless Settings by clicking the button</p>
	</li>
	<li dir="ltr">
	<p dir="ltr">Now enter the router 1's configuration information (i.e., SSID, wireless password, operating frequency, and WiFi security mode)</p>
	</li>
	<li dir="ltr">
	<p dir="ltr">Select Apply</p>
	</li>
	<li dir="ltr">
	<p dir="ltr">You'll be taken to the Advanced Wireless Settings Page</p>
	</li>
	<li dir="ltr">
	<p dir="ltr">Click Apply once again, and your adjustments will be saved; router 2 is now in Bridge mode</p>
	</li>
</ul>
<h2 dir="ltr" id="tag-157">Can I set up my Netgear to either bridge mode or access point mode?</h2>

<p dir="ltr">Certainly, you can set your Netgear to either access point or bridge mode. </p>

<p dir="ltr">The access point mode is the wireless access point's default mode.</p>

<p dir="ltr">The router should be able to automatically assign an IP address to wireless devices to enable communication and data transmission between the modem/router and the device. </p>

<p dir="ltr">The arrangement is typically encountered when providing connection.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:center"><em><img alt="" src="http://gospeedcheck.com/filemanager/data-images/imgs/20221027/bridge-mode-vs-access-point%20(6).png" style="height:360px; width:640px"></em></p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:center"><em>Can I set up my Netgear to either bridge mode or access point mode?</em></p>

<p dir="ltr">In contrast, a wireless bridge access point extends a wired connection via a wireless environment. </p>

<p dir="ltr">Given that wireless access points may do a variety of activities, you must limit them to a single Internet connection.</p>

<p dir="ltr">It’s because when delivering a WiFi network via a wireless access point or router, the wireless router mode employs the NAT or Network Address Translation capability.</p>

<p dir="ltr">If you are having a Vergin Media WiFi booster but don’t know how to set it up, check our post on <a href="https://gospeedcheck.com/article/virgin-wifi-booster-set-up-1095">Virgin WiFi booster set up</a> for detailed instructions.</p>
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