Documentation - Network
Disabling Network Bridges
Many modern operating systems offer the ability to create a network bridge between two network connections (such as a wired ethernet and a wireless connection). This arrangement causes all network traffic generated by that computer to be forwarded to both connections.
A network bridge on a normal desktop/laptop computer may cause confusion for routers on the University network and temporarily prevent the flow of any successful network traffic. These outages may affect a number of different users, but frequently be unnoticed by their source, since their traffic is going over the network twice through two different paths.
Bridges are occasionally configured accidently; they are usually configured intentionally by those who presume it will accelerate their network connection. In contrast, a network bridge simply duplicates traffic, increasing the load on your computer for processing the extra traffic without providing any benefits.
If your connection is configured with a network bridge, please follow the appropriate directions below to remove it. Computers running a network bridge will be removed from the University network.
Removing A Network Bridge
Windows XP
- Go to Start → All Programs → Accessories → Communications → Network Connections.
- Right-click the connection labeled "Network Bridge" and select "Delete"
Mac OS X
- Go to Apple menu → System Preferences.
- Under Internet & Network section, double-click "Sharing" and select the Internet tab.
- If Internet Sharing is enabled, click "Stop" to disable it.
Last updated: 7/17/08