When configuring a point-to-point (PTP) link using MikroTik LHG 5 devices, the need to configure a bridge depends on how you plan to use the link and how your network is designed.

We explain the considerations for both scenarios:

Leave the Bridge Blank

If your PTP link is designed to simply connect two points on your network, acting as a virtual cable without the need to connect additional devices over this link in the future, you may not need to configure a bridge.

In this case, the PTP link will work at layer 2 level as a transparent bridge, or at layer 3 level if you configure IP addresses on the interfaces directly, without the need for a bridge. This is suitable for simple scenarios where you only need to extend the network between two points.

Configure the Bridge

On the other hand, setting up a bridge on your LHG 5 devices can be useful if you want to:

• Connect multiple interfaces or network segments: If in the future you plan to connect multiple devices or network segments at either end of the PTP link, a bridge would facilitate this expansion by allowing you to manage these as if they were on the same network segment.
• Simplify network management: A bridge can help simplify the configuration and management of your network, especially if you are using advanced features such as traffic filtering, VLANs, or if you need to apply specific security policies on the link.
• Use advanced features of MikroTik: Some advanced RouterOS features, such as Wireless Access List, STP/RSTP for loop prevention, or even load balancing and failover, require the interfaces to be on a bridge to function correctly.

Conclusion

If your PTP link with LHG 5 is purely to connect two points on your network without the need for additional functionality or complexity, you may not need to configure a bridge.

However, if you anticipate the need to expand your network, connect multiple devices, or if you want to take advantage of advanced features of RouterOS, setting up a bridge would be the recommended option.

The final decision should be based on your specific network needs, future planning, and how you want to manage traffic over your PTP link.

Always remember to test your configuration in a controlled environment before deploying it to production to ensure it meets your expectations and performance requirements.