nworkbridge
Creating a network bridge in Windows 10 allows you to connect two or more network segments (like Wi-Fi and Ethernet) so that devices on different networks can communicate as if they were on the same physical network.
Before You Begin
- Two Adapters: You must have at least two active network adapters (e.g., one Wi-Fi and one Ethernet).
- Disable Sharing: Ensure "Internet Connection Sharing" (ICS) is turned off for the adapters you want to bridge, or the bridge will fail.
- Admin Rights: You need to be logged in as an Administrator.
Step-by-Step Guide
-
Open Network Connections:
- Press Windows Key + R on your keyboard.
- Type ncpa.cpl and hit Enter. This opens the Network Connections window directly.
-
Select Your Adapters:
- Find the two (or more) network adapters you want to bridge.
- Hold down the Ctrl key and click each adapter to highlight them. For example, select your "Wi-Fi" and "Ethernet" adapters.
-
Create the Bridge:
- Right-click on either of the highlighted adapters.
- Select Bridge Connections from the context menu.
- Wait a few seconds while Windows creates the bridge. A new icon labeled "Network Bridge" will appear.
-
Verify the Connection:
- Your computer may momentarily lose internet access while the bridge is being configured.
- Once finished, the "Network Bridge" should show as "Enabled." The individual adapters will now show they are "Bridged."
