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A Thunderbolt Bridge is a network interface in macOS that allows you to create a high-speed network connection between two Mac computers using the Thunderbolt ports. It enables you to transfer data between the connected Macs at blazing-fast speeds, making it useful for various applications such as file sharing, screen sharing, and network resource sharing.
Thunderbolt Bridge creates a direct network connection between two Mac computers. This connection is separate from your regular Ethernet or WiFi network and allows fast and dedicated communication between the two devices.
Once you have created a Thunderbolt Bridge, you can transfer files between the two Macs at up to 10 Gbps. This is much faster than traditional data transfer mediums.
Steps to connect two Macs using a Thunderbolt Bridge
Plug the Thunderbolt cable into the Thunderbolt ports of the two Macs and follow the steps below to create a Thunderbolt Bridge between two Macs:
Step 1: Open the Apple menu > System Settings.
Step 2: Select Network and then Thunderbolt Bridge from the right.
Step 3: Then click on Details.
You’ll see the connection status of the Thunderbolt 1 and 2 ports.
Step 4: To enter the IP address, go to TCP/IP > Configure IPv4 pop-up menu, select an option and then insert the IPv4 address in the IP address option. If the situation requires you to tweak other options like the Subnet mask and Router, you can enter these addresses too.
Repeat the steps on another Mac and ensure both Macs enable Thunderbolt Bridge.
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How to remove a Thunderbolt Bridge?
Here are the steps to remove a Thunderbolt Bridge:
Step 1: Click on the Apple menu and then select System Settings from the drop-down menu.
Step 2: Now, click on Network, followed by Thunderbolt Bridge.
Step 3: Click on the Thunderbolt Bridge you want to delete and then Delete Service.
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Frequently answered questions (FAQs)
Let us head to some FAQs on the topic:
Do I need a Thunderbolt Bridge on Mac?
It depends on your current situation. If you want to transfer massive data from one Mac to another, you may want to use the Thunderbolt Bridge.
Do both Macs need to have Thunderbolt ports?
Both Mac computers must have Thunderbolt ports for the Thunderbolt Bridge connection to work. Ensure your Mac models have Thunderbolt ports and are compatible with the cable-supported Thunderbolt version.
What macOS version is required for Thunderbolt Bridge?
Thunderbolt Bridge requires macOS High Sierra or later versions to establish a connection between Mac computers. Ensure that both Macs have the minimum required macOS version installed.
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