bridging vs routing modems

Some of you out there may be wondering what the difference between a bridging modem and a routing modem is.

I am speaking of DSL modems in this article, for clarification.

A bridging modem acts as a network BRIDGE like its name implies. That is to say, it bridges the difference in protocols and routing policies used on your network with the ones used on your Internet Service Providers Network. It will only allow you to connect a single computer to the other network unless you have a router in place. However, it allows you more flexibility in internal networking, as you may more easily set up multiple routers and subnets. This type of modem is best reserved for the advanced or business user or if your ISP requires bridging encapsulation.

A routing modem is a modem with a router built in. It acts in the manner of an edge of service router. (on much smaller scale!) and acts as a network gateway to sorts out the differences between your network and your ISP's network by running some routing protocol designed to do so. (typically IGREP- Interior Gate routing protocol) to complement your ISP's running of typically Exterior Gateway Routing Protocol. It also handles connecting more then one device via a hub or switch by using Network Address Translation and Port Forwarding.

This is typically your most commonly used consumer modem, and the type I'd recommend if you just want to plug in and go online.

Both have their place however, and you'll generally know which kind you need.


bridging vs routing modems by Dylan DiSalle is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NoDerivs 2.5 Canada License.
Based on a work at network-computer-info.blogspot.com