What is the Difference Between Routed and Bridged Network Access?
Whenever you're setting up a Wi-Fi hotspot or sharing the Internet via wired Ethernet with Connectify Hotspot, you will have to choose between 'Routed' and 'Bridged' network access.
What is Routed Network Access?
This is the default setting and sets up the Connectify Hotspot as a "classic" router. This means that your computer will run network address translation (NAT) and a DHCP server to assign IP addresses for devices that connect to your Wi-Fi hotspot or wired network.
The connected devices will be able to only discover and see other devices connected to the same Wi-Fi hotspot or wired network that you're creating with Connectify Hotspot. They will not be able to communicate directly with other devices from the network you're sharing.
What is Bridged Network Access?
Bridging mode allows devices that are on your Hotspot and on the network you're sharing to communicate between them. This means your devices on the Hotspot can:
- Use network file sharing
- Cast content to Chromecast, Apple TV and other streaming media devices
- Participate in LAN gaming
- Connect to online gaming
The bridging capabilities in Hotspot, also give it the ability to act as a Wi-Fi repeater to extend the range of your wireless network. Learn more about bridging mode.
NOTE:
Connectify Hotspot doesn't work in Bridged Mode in regards to PDANet.