Bridge
Overview
A bridge is a networking device that connects and filters traffic between two network segments. It operates at Layer 2 (Data Link Layer) of the OSI model.
Key Functions
- Connects separate network segments
- Filters traffic between network segments based on MAC addresses
- Reduces network traffic by segmenting networks
- Improves network performance by isolating collision domains
OSI Model Layer
Bridges operate at Layer 2 (Data Link Layer) of the OSI model. They use MAC addresses to make forwarding decisions and can filter traffic between network segments.