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Getting started

Internet Connection Setup

Connect over Ethernet or configure Wi-Fi using temporary SoftAP setup mode.

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Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and SoftAP Setup Guide

This guide explains how to connect C-Bridge to the internet using either Ethernet or Wi-Fi. It also explains how to use the built-in Wi-Fi setup mode to configure Wi-Fi when Ethernet is not available.

1. Connection Options

C-Bridge can connect to the internet in two ways:

  1. Ethernet
  • Recommended for permanent installations.
  • Most reliable connection method.
  • Best for commercial sites, equipment rooms, and networks where uptime matters.
  1. Wi-Fi
  • Useful when Ethernet is not available.
  • Can be configured through SoftAP setup mode.
  • Should only be used where the Wi-Fi signal is strong and stable.

2. Ethernet Setup

When to Use Ethernet

Use Ethernet whenever possible. It is the preferred connection method because it provides a more stable connection than Wi-Fi and avoids wireless signal and credential-change issues altogether.

Ethernet Setup Steps

  1. Connect the C-Bridge gateway to power using the power supply specified for your model.
  2. Plug an Ethernet cable into the Ethernet port on the C-Bridge.
  3. Connect the other end of the Ethernet cable to the building network, router, switch, or IT-approved network drop.
  4. Wait for the gateway to boot.
  5. Confirm that the Ethernet status LED or network status indicator shows an active connection.

Ethernet Notes

  • Ethernet should be used for most permanent installations.
  • Make sure the Ethernet port has internet access.
  • If the site uses a firewall, VLAN, MAC filtering, or static IP requirements, coordinate with IT before installation.
  • If the gateway does not come online, test the Ethernet cable with another device or try another port.

3. Wi-Fi Setup

When to Use Wi-Fi

  • Ethernet is not available.
  • The gateway needs to connect to Wi-Fi.
  • You are setting up the device for the first time.
  • The Wi-Fi credentials need to be changed.

4. Starting Wi-Fi Setup Mode

Step 1: Power the Gateway

Plug the C-Bridge into power and allow it to boot.

Wait until the gateway status LED indicates that it is ready for setup.

Step 2: Look for the C-Bridge Setup Wi-Fi Network

On your phone, tablet, or laptop, open Wi-Fi settings.

Look for a Wi-Fi network named something similar to:

CBridge-Setup

The exact name may include the device serial number or last few characters of the device ID.

Step 3: Connect to the Setup Network

Select the C-Bridge setup Wi-Fi network.

If prompted for a password, enter the setup password provided with the device or printed on the device label.

If no password is required, connect directly.

5. Opening the Setup Page

After connecting to the C-Bridge setup Wi-Fi network, open a web browser.

Go to:

http://192.168.4.1

If that does not load, try:

http://cbridge.local

The local setup page should appear.

6. Selecting a Wi-Fi Network

On the setup page:

  1. Select Wi-Fi Setup.
  2. Click Scan for Networks.
  3. Choose the site’s Wi-Fi network from the list.
  4. Enter the Wi-Fi password.
  5. Confirm the password carefully.
  6. Click Save or Connect.

The gateway will attempt to connect to the selected Wi-Fi network.

7. Confirming Wi-Fi Connection

After the Wi-Fi settings are saved:

  1. The C-Bridge will disconnect from the temporary setup network.
  2. The gateway will connect to the building Wi-Fi.
  3. The setup Wi-Fi network should disappear.
  4. Check network status in the local interface; LED behavior depends on hardware revision.
  5. In the C-Bridge portal, confirm that the gateway appears online.

If the gateway does not come online after a few minutes, restart the device and check the Wi-Fi credentials.

8. Changing Wi-Fi Later

If the building Wi-Fi name or password changes, the C-Bridge will need to be reconfigured.

To change Wi-Fi:

  1. Put the gateway back into SoftAP setup mode.
  2. Connect to the C-Bridge setup Wi-Fi network.
  3. Open the setup page.
  4. Select the new Wi-Fi network.
  5. Enter the new password.
  6. Save and reconnect.

For best results, the Wi-Fi network should meet the following requirements:

  • Strong signal at the gateway location.
  • Stable internet connection.
  • 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi support, if required by the gateway hardware.
  • No captive portal or hotel-style login page.
  • No rotating password or timed guest access.
  • IT approval for gateway internet access.

Avoid guest networks unless IT confirms they allow device-to-cloud communication.

10. Troubleshooting

The C-Bridge Setup Wi-Fi Network Does Not Appear

Try the following:

  • Confirm the gateway has power.
  • Wait for the boot process to finish.
  • Restart the gateway.
  • Move closer to the gateway.
  • Confirm the device is in setup mode.

The Setup Page Does Not Open

Try:

  • Confirm your phone or laptop is connected to the C-Bridge setup Wi-Fi.
  • Turn off cellular data temporarily.
  • Open http://192.168.4.1.
  • Try another browser.
  • Restart the gateway.

Wi-Fi Connection Fails

Check:

  • Wi-Fi password is correct.
  • Network name was selected correctly.
  • Signal strength is strong enough.
  • Network does not require a captive portal.
  • IT has not blocked the device.
  • Router allows new devices to join.

Gateway Shows Offline

Check:

  • Internet access on the network.
  • Ethernet cable or Wi-Fi signal.
  • Firewall rules.
  • DNS access.
  • Cloud service access.
  • Power to the gateway.

11. Ethernet vs. Wi-Fi Recommendation

For permanent installations, Ethernet is preferred.

Use Wi-Fi only when Ethernet is not practical or available.

Connection TypeRecommended UseReliability
EthernetPermanent installationsBest
Wi-FiRetrofit or no Ethernet availableGood, if signal is strong
SoftAPTemporary setup onlySetup mode only

12. Installer Checklist

Before leaving site, confirm the following:

  • Gateway is powered.
  • Ethernet or Wi-Fi is connected.
  • Gateway appears online in the portal.
  • Site network name is documented.
  • Wi-Fi credentials are saved securely if required.
  • Gateway location has acceptable signal strength.
  • IT contact has confirmed network access if needed.
  • Device label, serial number, and site name are recorded.

13. Notes for IT Teams

The C-Bridge gateway requires internet access for remote monitoring, cloud communication, firmware updates, and site management.

If the network uses firewall restrictions, VLANs, MAC address filtering, or static IP assignments, coordinate with the project team before installation.

Recommended IT information to collect:

  • Site network name
  • Ethernet port location
  • DHCP or static IP requirement
  • Firewall restrictions
  • VLAN information
  • IT contact
  • Device MAC address
  • Gateway serial number

14. Summary

Use Ethernet whenever possible.

Use Wi-Fi when Ethernet is unavailable.

Use SoftAP mode only to configure Wi-Fi during setup or when credentials need to be changed.

Once the C-Bridge is online, confirm the gateway status in the portal before completing installation.