What is the difference between bridge mode and router on an ADSL router?

Bridge mode and router mode are two different operating modes for an ADSL router. Here's the key difference between the two:

Bridge Mode:

In bridge mode, the ADSL router acts as a simple modem that connects your home network to the internet. It passes the internet connection through to your network devices without performing any routing functions. In this mode, the router does not assign IP addresses to your devices, and you will need a separate device, such as a standalone router or modem/router combo, to handle DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) and other routing functions.

Router Mode:

In router mode, the ADSL router combines the functions of a modem and a router. It establishes the internet connection, assigns IP addresses to connected devices, and manages traffic between your network and the internet. Routers typically include features like DHCP, firewall protection, port forwarding, and wireless connectivity (if it's a wireless router).

Here's a table summarizing the key differences:

| Feature | Bridge Mode | Router Mode |

|---|---|---|

| Internet Connection | Acts as a modem, passes the connection through | Establishes the internet connection |

| IP Address Assignment | Does not assign IP addresses | Assigns IP addresses to devices |

| Routing Functions | Does not perform routing | Handles routing between network and internet |

| Additional Features | Typically lacks advanced features like firewall and wireless | Includes features like DHCP, firewall, port forwarding, etc. |

In general, bridge mode is used when you want to have more control over your network setup or when you want to use a separate router for added functionality. Router mode, on the other hand, is the default and recommended mode for most home and small office networks, as it provides the necessary features out of the box.