Differences Between a Wireless Bridge vs. a Wireless Repeater
Wireless distribution systems allow a network to expand through the use of industrial access points that don’t require a traditional wire backbone to connect them together. Rather than wiring, the two different modes of wireless connectivity used to connect access points within a wireless distribution system include wireless bridges and wireless repeaters. While they both help extend the coverage of a network, these networking devices also have numerous dissimilarities. To better understand the key differences between a wireless bridge vs. a wireless repeater, continue reading.
Range of Communication
One way in which wireless bridges and wireless repeaters differ is in their range of communication. When it comes to a wireless bridge, the device connects two access points together which will exclusively communicate with one another. A wireless repeater, however, facilitates the communication between access points, as well as wireless stations (STAs), such as laptops, wireless phones, PDA, and other devices.
Capabilities
Wireless bridges and wireless repeaters also vary in regard to their capabilities. To boost the range of a signal traveling over an existing wireless network, wireless repeaters are up for the job. However, if you need to connect two different systems together in an attempt to extend a network’s coverage, you will need the help of a wireless bridge.
A wireless bridge will allow you to connect two network segments by dividing the networks into smaller portions. In doing so, the number of connected devices in the network section will be reduced. Then, the bridge can receive and convert the wireless signals before transmitting them to any devices that directly connect to the wireless network.
Intended Use
Another key difference between a wireless bridge vs. a wireless repeater is their intended use. For example, wireless bridges are an ideal option for applications when you need to substantially extend the range of your network or when you need to connect a wired device to a wireless network.
The most common uses of repeaters, on the other hand, include adding long-range devices to your network or enhancing the performance at the edge of your current wireless network. However, wireless repeaters aren’t ideal for extending the network coverage of many different devices because the transmission quality of a wireless signal will decrease each time it is repeated.
