Thunderbolt Bridge is a feature on Mac computers that allows users to connect two Macs and share their displays, keyboards, and mice. It is a convenient way to share resources and collaborate with others, mainly when working remotely.
Both Macs must be running macOS Big Sur or later and be equipped with Thunderbolt 3 ports to use Thunderbolt Bridge. The Macs must also be on the same network.
How Does Thunderbolt Bridge Work?
To use Thunderbolt Bridge, follow these steps:
- Connect both Macs using a Thunderbolt 3 cable.
- On one of the Macs, go to System Preferences > Sharing and select “Thunderbolt Bridge” from the list of services.
- Go to System Preferences > Displays on the other Mac and select the “Thunderbolt Bridge” option.
- The two Macs will now be connected; you can use them as if they were a single Mac.
Benefits of Thunderbolt Bridge
Thunderbolt Bridge offers several benefits for users, including:
- Improved productivity: With Thunderbolt Bridge, you can easily share resources and collaborate with others, which can help increase productivity.
- Enhanced security: Thunderbolt Bridge uses secure, encrypted connections to ensure your data remains safe and secure.
- Increased flexibility: Thunderbolt Bridge allows you to connect two Macs, regardless of their location, which can be useful for remote teams or individuals working from home.
FAQs
Can I use Thunderbolt Bridge with Macs running older macOS versions?
Thunderbolt Bridge is only available on Macs running macOS Big Sur or later.
Do both Macs need Thunderbolt 3 ports to use Thunderbolt Bridge?
Both Macs must be equipped with Thunderbolt 3 ports to use Thunderbolt Bridge.
Can I use Thunderbolt Bridge to connect a Mac to a non-Mac device?
No, Thunderbolt Bridge is only designed to work with Macs. If you want to connect a Mac to a non-Mac device, you must use a different method, such as a cable or wireless connection.
Is Thunderbolt Bridge a replacement for other methods of sharing resources between Macs, such as using a network or cloud services?
Thunderbolt Bridge is an additional method for sharing resources between Macs, and it can be used in conjunction with other methods, such as using a network or cloud services. It offers a convenient and secure way to share resources and collaborate with others, particularly when working remotely.
Can I use Thunderbolt Bridge to connect a Mac to a Mac running a different operating system, such as Windows or Linux?
No, Thunderbolt Bridge is only designed to work with Macs running macOS Big Sur or later. It will not work with Macs running a different operating system.
Can I use Thunderbolt Bridge to connect a Mac to multiple other Macs simultaneously?
No, Thunderbolt Bridge allows you to connect two Macs, but it does not support connecting a single Mac to multiple other Macs simultaneously.
Is Thunderbolt Bridge the same as using a Mac in target display mode?
No, Thunderbolt Bridge and target display mode are two different features. Thunderbolt Bridge allows you to connect two Macs and share their displays, keyboards, and mice, while target display mode will enable you to use one Mac as a display for another Mac.
Can I use Thunderbolt Bridge to connect a Mac to a Mac that is using a different display resolution?
Yes, Thunderbolt Bridge supports connecting Macs with different display resolutions. The Macs will adjust their display settings to match the other Mac’s resolution.
Can I use Thunderbolt Bridge to connect a Mac to a Mac that is using a different graphics card?
Yes, Thunderbolt Bridge supports connecting Macs with different graphics cards. The Macs will automatically adjust their display settings to match the capabilities of the other Mac’s graphics card.
Is there a limit to the length of the Thunderbolt 3 cable I can use with Thunderbolt Bridge?
The maximum length of a Thunderbolt 3 cable is 2 meters (6.6 feet). However, it is recommended to use a shorter cable if possible, as longer cables can result in signal degradation and reduced performance.
Can I use Thunderbolt Bridge to connect a Mac to a Mac wirelessly?
Thunderbolt Bridge requires a physical connection between the two Macs using a Thunderbolt 3 cable. It does not support a wireless connection.