How do you bridge WLAN and LAN for seamless connectivity?

1 What is bridging?

Bridging is a network technique that connects two or more networks at the data link layer (layer 2) of the OSI model. A bridge is a device or software that can forward packets between networks based on their MAC addresses. A bridge can also filter and block packets to prevent unnecessary traffic and collisions. Bridging WLAN and LAN means creating a single logical network that spans both wireless and wired segments.

2 Why bridge WLAN and LAN?

Bridging WLAN and LAN can have several benefits depending on your network configuration and needs. To expand wireless range and coverage, reduce wireless hops and interference, enable wireless devices to access wired resources, and simplify network management and security, bridging WLAN and LAN is a common solution. Doing so allows you to use the LAN as a backbone, improve wireless performance and reliability, and utilize a single IP address range, subnet mask, gateway, and DHCP server.

3 How to bridge WLAN and LAN with a router?

Bridging WLAN and LAN can be done easily with a router that has both wireless and wired interfaces. This is achieved by routing packets between the WLAN and LAN based on their IP addresses. To bridge WLAN and LAN with a router, you must first connect the router's WAN port to your modem or internet source. Then, connect the router's LAN ports to your wired devices using Ethernet cables. Afterwards, configure the router's wireless settings, such as SSID, password, channel, mode, etc. Additionally, enable the DHCP server on the router to assign IP addresses to both wireless and wired devices. Finally, you may consider enabling the wireless security features such as encryption, firewall, MAC filtering, etc., for an added layer of security.

4 How to bridge WLAN and LAN with a wireless access point?

An alternate way to bridge WLAN and LAN is to use a wireless access point (AP), which can connect to your existing LAN and provide wireless access to your devices. To do this, you must first connect the AP's LAN port to your existing LAN with an Ethernet cable. Then, configure the AP's wireless settings, such as SSID, password, channel, mode, etc., so they are compatible with your existing WLAN settings. It is also important to disable the DHCP server on the AP to prevent IP conflicts with your existing LAN. If desired, you can also enable additional security features, such as encryption, firewall, MAC filtering, etc.

5 How to bridge WLAN and LAN with a wireless bridge?

A third way to bridge WLAN and LAN is to use a wireless bridge that can connect two or more LANs wirelessly. This device functions as both a client and an AP, forming a wireless link between two wired networks. To bridge WLAN and LAN with a wireless bridge, you must first connect the device’s LAN port to your existing LAN using an Ethernet cable. Then, you must configure the wireless bridge’s settings such as SSID, password, channel, mode, etc., to match or be compatible with your target WLAN settings. Next, set the wireless bridge’s operation mode to either bridge or repeater, depending on the device model and firmware. Lastly, you may choose to enable security features like encryption and firewall for added protection.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?