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Wi-Fi® Bridging

Benefits of Wi-Fi® Bridging


Bridging solutions connect multiple networks that use the same or different protocols by aggregating them into a single network. For example, an Ethernet-to-Wi-Fi bridging device receives incoming data from an Ethernet network and sends it back out via Wi-Fi and vice versa.

In general, Wi-Fi bridging is the fastest and easiest way to enable a Wi-Fi connection on an existing host machine. It is an optimal solution because the host machine gains Wi-Fi access without needing any new software or drivers and while continuing to use its existing communication protocol such as Ethernet, CAN or USB.

Convert Ethernet, CAN or USB to Wi-Fi Using a Single Interface Module

The WFI32 is a Wi-Fi MCU module that boasts reliable performance in harsh environments while offering multiple communication protocols. These features make it a great candidate for Wi-Fi bridging in industrial applications.

Wi-Fi Bridging Devices in Industrial Applications

Markets and Applications


Wi-Fi bridging is widely used in automotive, industrial and medical applications for:

  • Host machine maintenance including On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) and firmware upgrades 
  • Dual-interface products (LAN and WLAN) 
  • Cable replacement
Wi-Fi Bridging in Automotive, Industrial and Medical Applications

Getting Started


Jumpstart your application using our selection of hardware and software solutions. Consider our bridge kit for an all-in-one solution or build your own using our application examples and development tools.

Ethernet-to-Wi-Fi Bridge Application Diagram

Ethernet-to-Wi-Fi Bridge Board

This low-cost, compact and easy-to-use reference design board enables Ethernet connectivity on the WFI32E01PE module. Board features include:

  • Ready-to-use firmware that bridges Ethernet data from a host device to a Wi-Fi network
  • Does not require any additional drivers on the host device
  • Proven reference design with Ethernet-to-Wi-Fi bridge device schematics and PCB
Ethernet-to-Wi-Fi Bridge Board

Wi-Fi Bridging Application Examples

Demo Description Link Learn More
Ethernet-to-Wi-Fi® Bridging Use a WFI32 module as an access point to create a bridge connecting Ethernet and Wi-Fi networks. Build an Ethernet bridge Ethernet
10BASE-T1S-to-Wi-Fi Bridging Use a WFI32 module as an access point to create a bridge connecting 10BASE-T1S and Wi-Fi networks. Build a 10BASE-T1S bridge 10BASE-T1S
CAN-to-Wi-Fi Bridging Bridge the CAN bus to Wi-Fi peripherals using a WFI32 device running in Software-Enabled Access Point (SoftAP) Mode. Build a CAN bridge CAN

Tools and Software


Part Number: Quantity: Price per Unit (in USD): Total Amt:
EV49N51A

The Ethernet to Wi-Fi® Bridge Board is a low-cost reference design board that comes pre-loaded with firmware and an out-of-the-box demo to enable rapid prototyping for an Ethernet to Wi-Fi bridge device.

EV67T15A

This board is a full featured development platform that demonstrates the capability of WFI32E03 Wi-Fi® MCU module with 2 MB flash and 640 KB RAM. 

AC320004-3

Microchip's LAN8720A PHY Daughter Board is populated with high-performance, small-footprint, low-power 10BASE-T/100BASE-TX Ethernet LAN8720A PHY.

Part Number: Quantity: Price per Unit (in USD): Total Amt:
MPLAB-X-IDE

MPLAB® X Integrated Development Environment (IDE) is an expandable, highly configurable software program that incorporates powerful tools to help you discover, configure, develop, debug and qualify embedded designs for most of Microchip’s microcontrollers, microprocessors and digital signal controllers.

MPLAB Harmony v3

MPLAB® Harmony is a modular framework that provides interoperable firmware libraries for application development on 32-bit microcontrollers and microprocessors.