Bridge Connection
Introduction

Bridges are used to connect two or more wired LANs, to create one large LAN. The LANs are usually located within separate buildings, as pictured in Figure . In some cases, they can both reside in the same location .

There are three basic models of Cisco bridges: the BR350 , WGB350 , and 1400 . The BR350 is sometimes called the multifunction bridge. A comparison of the models are shown in Figure . For a more detailed study of the BR350, the Photozooms can be accessed below. This module will focus on the BR350 configuration. The 1400 bridge will be covered at the end of the module.

In Figure , the BR350 or the 1400 can be used to create a site-to-site wireless link. In Figure , a WGB350 can be used for up to eight devices while a BR350 can be used for up to 2007 devices theoretically. A BR350 is ideally suited for harsh and industrial environments.

Cisco bridges can be controlled and configured though command line and Web interfaces. Management can also be done through traditional protocols like SNMP. A variety of antenna options can provide additional reach or speed, depending on the installation. Cisco bridges also provide enterprise level security, monitoring, and manageability.

Bridging has quickly become one of the most popular uses of wireless networks. This is partially due to the ease of installation and setup. It is also due to the variety of emerging markets, to which WLAN bridging can be applied. As shown in Figure , some of these markets include the following:

  • Campus environments, such as hospitals, schools, universities, and corporations
  • Areas where geography may exclude other solutions
  • Temporary network installations
  • Internet service providers (ISPs)
  • Backup or alternative connections
  • Developing countries, where alternative solutions may not be available
  • International markets

Interactive Media Activity

PhotoZoom: Cisco BR350 Wireless Bridge

In this activity, students will view Cisco BR350 Wireless Bridge.

Interactive Media Activity

PhotoZoom: Cisco 1400 Wireless Bridge

In this activity, students will view Cisco 1400 Wireless Bridge.

Web Links