Best Wireless Ethernet Bridges – 2023 Top Options Reviewed

Austin
| Last Updated: January 14, 2023

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While we may think that the world has gone completely wireless, Ethernet devices are still high in demand. Whether at work, school or in the home office, this wired connection is the preferred way to gain seamless connection by many.

However, when you have to link multiple Ethernet devices, your setup can become a little more complicated, not to mention cluttered and messy. The solution? A wireless Ethernet bridge!

In this article, we list the best wireless bridges on the market and let you know why an Ethernet bridge may be an absolute must for your workplace.

Comparison of the Best Wireless Ethernet Bridges

IMAGEPRODUCT
  • Two high gain antennas for superb signal
  • It can be easily connected to audio systems
  • Supports up to four simultaneous connections
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  • Efficient at both indoors and outdoors
  • Coming with a 1 year limited warranty
  • Highlighted by a push button WiFi setup
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  • Best for the Money
  • Simple to install plug and play design
  • Sleek and lightweight perfect for versatile use
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  • Best Tomato Wireless Ethernet Bridge
  • Features 2.0 USB ports for enhanced connectivity
  • Efficiently operates at a frequency of 2GHz
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  • Best Point to Point Wireless Ethernet Bridge
  • With an EZ-Bridge offering superb signal
  • Offers a constant speed of 100mbps
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  • Best Long Range Wireless Ethernet Bridge
  • Can support power at 200 feet of distance
  • Directional MIMO antenna for eliminating dead zones
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  • Best Linksys Wireless Ethernet Bridge
  • Featuring a Linksys app for an easy setup
  • Highlighted by a data transfer rate of 2,200mbps
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What Makes a Wireless Ethernet Bridge Worth Buying?

Purchasing a wireless Ethernet bridge brings with it a variety of benefits and features, each more valuable than the last when it comes to optimizing your internet connectivity. Let’s take a look at the benefits a wireless bridge can bring over a wired connection:

Wirelessly Connect Devices With Ethernet Connectivity

Does your device only have access to the internet by Ethernet connection? There’s no denying that wireless connectivity can make your life a lot easier, especially if your workplace or educational institute does not require Ethernet connectivity. Simply connect to your wireless Ethernet bridge and enjoy all of the benefits of a wireless connection!

Connect Multiple Devices Simultaneously

One of the best parts of purchasing a wireless Ethernet bridge is its ability to connect to multiple devices simultaneously and overextended geographical distances. A wireless Ethernet bridge provides a strong signal even when covering a large area, offering compatibility with a large number of devices. The result? A great network connection for multiple Ethernet-only devices.

Customizable Antenna Settings

As you might expect, an antenna is the most essential component of ensuring that your wireless bridge can connect to multiple devices over a broad area range. By including an antenna, your wireless Ethernet bridge can transfer and receive signals, resulting in a strong network connection for all of your devices. By purchasing a professional-grade wireless bridge, you will receive customizable antenna settings that allow you to receive a strong and reliable signal reception.

Photo credit: routersnetwork.com

Strong Signal Reception

Reliable antenna settings tend to come hand in hand with strong signal reception, as well as high-quality engineering. Once a reliable and strong signal is established, you can then expect a superior signal connection that is fast, consistent, and oh, so smooth. Strong signal reception is key to avoiding lagging, broken links, and unnecessary buffering of your media.

Prevents Bandwidth Waste

Bandwidth waste is unused bandwidth that is essentially wasted because we can not go back in time and reclaim it.  If we can use bandwidth up to the limits of channel capacity, then we can optimize our internet speed and connectivity. A wireless Ethernet bridge essentially acts as a bandwidth monitor, preventing unnecessary data flow and discarding irrelevant traffic to increase your speed and performance.

Increases Network Length

As mentioned, a wireless Ethernet bridge increases network length, allowing you to increase your network's size without the need for clunky cables and/or software constraints such as firewalls. A wireless Ethernet bridge can achieve this by connecting individual LAN segments, eliminating the need to create IP subnets, or installing a router.

Review of the Best Wireless Ethernet Bridges

We’ve sorted through dozens of wireless ethernet bridges so we can present you with the seven best on the market. We’ve divided each item by specs, pros and cons, a review, and our final thoughts so you can make the best decision based on your needs.

Best Overall:
TP-Link N300 TL-WR802N

TP-Link N300 Wireless Portable Nano Travel Router(TL-WR802N) - WiFi Bridge/Range Extender/Access Point/Client Modes, Mobile in Pocket

PROS

  • Includes parental controls
  • Powers with micro USB port
  • Supports Windows, Mac, and Linux
  • Able to work in extreme temperatures
  • Compatible with Amazon TV stick and Chromecast
  • Advanced security with advanced security encryption
  • Extends current WiFi for improving signal strength and coverage
  • Easily and conveniently create a secure WiFi hotspot anywhere you go
  • Creates a private WiFi hotspot anywhere an Internet connection is available

CONS

  • Difficult to set up
  • Speeds only reach 300 Mbps
  • Difficulty accessing US support
  • This product does not include a Gigabit port

Specs

Frequency: 2.4 GHz

Data Transfer Rate: 300 Megabits Per Second

Hardware Interface: 1 x 10/100Mbps WAN/LAN Port, 1 Micro USB Port

Operating System: Microsoft Windows 98SE, NT, 2000, XP, Vista or Windows 8.1/8/7, MACOS, NetWare, UNIX or Linux

Review

The TP-Link N300 TL-WR802N is a pocket-sized and portable device that makes seamlessly accessing WiFi both private and easy. This compact device offers a fast speed of 300 Mbps and operates with 2.4 GHz devices such as Chromecast and Amazon Fire TV. This makes streaming media of any kind easy and efficient, whether watching movies, playing online games, or placing a Skype call.

Powering the TP-Link N300 is easy, with an option of USB cable or external adapter. This product comes with a USB charger, Ethernet cable, wall adapter, travel pouch, and setup instructions. Access network availability with ease with this compact device by TP-Link!

Bottom Line

The bottom line is that there is very little downside to this product! The TP-Link N300 works with any 802.11b/g/n WiFi router or access point and delivers 300 Mbps of WiFi speed at a 2.4G hertz frequency for lag-free video streaming and online gaming experience. We love this product for its convenience and versatility!

Runner-up:
IOGEAR GWU637

PROS

  • Compact design
  • Compatible with 802.11 network standards
  • Works with any device with an Ethernet port
  • No requirement to buy a separate USB adapter
  • Push-button WiFi Protected Setup (WPS) for easy configuration
  • Offers a 100m indoor operating range and 180m outdoor operating range
  • Connect the unit to your device without worrying about rewiring your home
  • Features WEP, TKZP, AES, WPA, and WPA hardware schemes for advanced security
  • Connects to Ethernet-enabled devices like Blu-ray, gaming consoles, HDTV, computers

CONS

  • Hot to the touch
  • No updates available
  • User interface not locked down

Specs

Frequency: 2.4 GHz

Data Transfer Rate: 300 Megabits Per Second

Hardware Interface: Ethernet

Operating System: Wireless connect Ethernet-enabled device to most WiFi networks ((not compatible with Enterprise Authentication)

Review

The IOGEAR GWU637 is an Ethernet to WiFi connector, allowing you to enjoy wireless connectivity for any Ethernet-enabled device. This device offers universal compatibility, allowing you to turn your wired devices into wireless devices over your WiFi network, regardless of if your devices are inbuilt with WiFi.

Simply connect your Ethernet-enabled devices such as laptops, HDTV, and gaming consoles to your wireless home network and enjoy a transfer speed of up to 300Mbps on 2.4GHz networks! The IOGEAR GWU637 is easy to set up, requiring only the simple press of a WPS (WiFi Protected Setup) button.

Bottom Line

If you’re looking for a convenient network setup that offers universal compatibility and immediate connection to your preferred devices, the IOGEAR GWU637 is for you. This product is reported to have some downfalls, including the fact that there are no updates available to fix any potential issues. However, the IOGEAR GWU637 is back by free lifetime support for any concerns you may have.

Best for the Money:
Vonets VAP11G-300

PROS

  • Easy to set up
  • 100 meters transmission distance
  • Portable and great for plug and play
  • Includes WiFi hotspot memory function
  • Connect 20 devices to WiFi at the same time
  • Does not require an additional power supply
  • Universal and can be used with any wireless product

CONS

  • Signal strength isn’t great
  • Relatively low data transfer rate

Specs

Frequency: 2.4 GHz

Data Transfer Rate: 300 Megabits Per Second

Hardware Interface: 1 DC2.0 power hole; 1 dedicated two in one power supply cable, with a set of power supply and a set of 10/100M adaptive Ethernet cable

Operating System: It can be used for any wireless network product

Review

The Vonets VAP11G-300 WiFi hotspot extender works hard to double your original WiFi signal coverage. Its portable and small size makes it easy to carry anywhere, whether in a laptop bag, purse, or even in your pocket. Plus, this product doesn’t need an additional power supply, making it more environmentally friendly than many similar products.

The Vonets VAP11G-300 is easy to use with its plug-and-play feature and does not require resetting or configuring. It can connect more than 20 devices with WiFi at the same time within a 100-meter transmission distance.

Bottom Line

Customers enjoy the Vonets VAP11G-300 for its ease of use, intelligent WiFi function, which scans and connects automatically. The VAP11G-300 is a professional quality 300M WiFi bridge. This product is easy to set up and provides long-lasting stability for any wireless network product. However, you’re looking for a WiFi signal that can connect more than 100 meters away; this product may not be for you.

Best Tomato Wireless Ethernet Bridge:
ASUS RT-N16

PROS

  • Ultra-fast and convenient downloads
  • Compatible with most operating systems
  • Graphical network map and multiple SSID
  • Works well with third-party, open-source firmware
  • Gigabit Ethernet and two USB ports for connection

CONS

  • Bulky design
  • Does not support dual-band

Specs

Frequency: 2.4 GHz

Data Transfer Rate: 300 Megabits Per Second

Hardware Interface: 2 USB2.0 ports

Operating System: Windows 10 86x64,Windows 8.1 86x64,Windows 8 32bit/64bit, Windows 7 32bit/64bit,Windows Vista 32bit/64bit, Windows XP 32bit/64bit, Mac OS X, Linux

Review

The ASUS RT-N16 is a great solution for those networking enthusiasts looking to use it with third-party, open-source firmware, such as Tomato or DD-WRT. This device implements Gigabit Ethernet and provides an operating frequency of 300 Megabits per second at a 2.4 GHz frequency.

This is a great product if you’re looking for a router that caters to the needs of more modem connections but is not for you if you’re looking for an ADSL or cable modem built-in. The ASUS RT-N16 allows you to enjoy ultra-fast and convenient downloads and includes all of the features you are likely to need and more in a Tomato wireless internet bridge.

Bottom Line

If you’re looking for a wireless Ethernet bridge that you can use with third-party, open-source firmware, such as Tomato or DD-WRT, then this device may be for you. However, despite its fast operating frequency of 300 Megabits per second at 2.4 GHz, you may find that this product does not have enough modern features for your modem.

Best Point to Point Wireless Ethernet Bridge:
EZ-Bridge-Lite EZBR-0214+

PROS

  • Quick and easy setup
  • Built-in surge protector
  • Appropriate for outdoor use
  • Perfect plug and play solution
  • Powerful antennas for great signal strength
  • Complies with the 802.11g and n standards to ensure interoperability
  • Great for internet access sharing, remote video surveillance, or remote network access
  • Creates a transparent wireless bridge between two networks up to 3 miles apart with a good line of sight

CONS

  • This model is quite pricy

Specs

Frequency: 2.4 GHz

Data Transfer Rate: 100 Megabits Per Second

Hardware Interface: Cat5e rated POE (Power Over Ethernet) power inserters and 24VDC auto-ranging power supplies.

Operating System: Supports multiple MAC addresses and DHCP across the wireless link

Review

The EZ-Bridge-Lite EZBR-0214+ is a great choice for those who are seeking an exceptionally long transmission device, offering an impressive range of 3 miles! At a speed of 100 megabits per second and a frequency of 2.4 GHz, buyers of this product can enjoy a stable and consistent signal strength from hundreds of meters away.

You can enjoy the ease of use with the plug-and-play feature of this device, as well as its ability to instantly identify and connect to devices when turned on. This product is recommended for both home and professional users who require a wireless connection in two different locations over a long-distance away.

Bottom Line

While you may find this product on the pricier side, it is an exceptional device for those who wish to use the same WiFi connection from a long-distance away. The EZ-Bridge-Lite provides speeds of 100 megabits per second over a 2.4GHz unlicensed frequency. This plug-and-play solution is perfect for connecting the networks and sharing the internet in two or more buildings. It is also useful in remote video surveillance and remote network access.

Best Long Range Wireless Ethernet Bridge:
TP-Link N300 CPE210

PROS

  • User-friendly design
  • Professional performance
  • Centralized management system
  • Adjustable transfer power to 27dBm
  • Inbuilt with double polarized directional MIMO antennas
  • Passive adapter supporting 200 feet enabling remote resetting
  • TP-Link time division multiple access offers enhanced performance
  • Operates in various modes like AP client router, AP router, client, and AP

CONS

  • It does not hold universal compatibility

Specs

Frequency: 2.4 GHz

Data Transfer Rate: 300 Megabits Per Second

Hardware Interface: 1 x 10/100Mbps Shielded Ethernet Port (Passive PoE in)

Operating System: Microsoft Windows 98SE NT 2000 XP Vista, or Windows 10 Windows 8 Windows 7 MAC OS NetWare UNIX or Linux. Note: We recommend using one of the following web browsers for an improved user experience: Google Chrome Safari and Firefox. IE browsers are not recommended

Review

Our pick for the best long-range wireless ethernet bridge comes in the form of the TP-Link N300 CPE210. This product is built to offer an outdoor wireless networking solution in a cost-effective system. The TP-Link N300 CPE210 is ideal for point-to-point, point-to-multipoint, and outdoor WiFi coverage applications. This product is easy to set up with its included instruction manual and can conveniently mount on two connecting pieces of flag pole pipe and in just a few moments. The TP-Link N300 CPE210 delivers fast speeds of 300 megabits per second at a 2.4 GHz frequency.

Bottom Line

The TP-Link N300 CPE210 is ideal for those who are seeking a long-range wireless bridge solution, delivering exceptional performance for more than 5km. This product implements the use of MAXtream TDMA technology, ensuring users never experience collision and competition within your network. While this product supports multiple MAC addresses and DHCP across the wireless link, it does not hold universal compatibility.

Best Linksys Wireless Ethernet Bridge:
Linksys WHW0301

PROS

  • Parental controls
  • Clean, compact design
  • Coverage of up to 2,000 square feet
  • Ideal for any ISP plan, ISP modem/modem-router
  • Linksys App guides a quick setup process of under 5 minutes per node
  • Guest networks available, auto-fix a node using your mobile device plus much more
  • The Mesh WiFi System replaces your router and finds the fastest path to the internet

CONS

  • Not budget-friendly
  • Account required for mobile apps
  • Some customers still experienced dead zones
  • Parental feature control is not optimally designed
  • Linksys Aware and Linksys Shield require paid subscription services

Specs

Frequency: 2.4 GHz

Data Transfer Rate: 2200 Megabits Per Second

Hardware Interface: Gigabit Ethernet

Operating System: Works with any service provider modem or modem-router

Review

The Linksys WHW0301 gets our pick for the best Linksys wireless Ethernet bridge. What we enjoy about this product is its ultra-fast speed at 2200 Megabits per second at a 2.4 GHz frequency, coupled with the fact that it’s easy to set up and designed to fit anywhere. This product features Intelligent Mesh technology, spreading a strong WiFi signal through homes of every kind.

The Velop system in this product works together in a mesh system, eliminating buffering or the need to manually switch between networks. With an option to purchase up to 3 nodes at a time, you can add more nodes as your WiFi needs to expand.

Bottom Line

The Linksys WHW0301 Velop Mesh Router is a great solution to bring ultra-fast, full-strength mesh WiFi to your home in a sleek, modular design. While you can purchase just one node, each additional node increases your WiFi range by up to 2,000 sq. ft. While customers enjoy this product for its high speed and easy usability, the Linksys WHW0301 can get expensive, depending on how many nodes you require.

What is a Wireless Ethernet Bridge and What Does a Wireless Ethernet Bridge Do?

While a wireless Ethernet bridge allows you to access an internet connection without the need for an Ethernet cable, what is this magical device? Well, a wireless bridge is a product that connects two access points together. The first point is an access point, with the other point working as a station/client point.

While a wireless bridge can quite literally span buildings, it is often used within a workplace or at home to connect Ethernet-only devices to a WiFi network. A wireless Ethernet bridge also makes connecting to wireless networking possible without driver installation.

TP-Link N300 TL-WR802N

When Should You Use a Wireless Bridge?

Although we’ve gone over the benefits of using a wireless bridge, is this handy product right for you? Let’s take a look at a few of the circumstances where a wireless bridge would be highly beneficial:

You Have Multiple Devices With Ethernet Only Connections

If you have multiple devices with Ethernet cable-only connections, a wireless Ethernet bridge will be an incredibly useful tool for you. Using a clunky Ethernet cable in every one of your Ethernet-only devices can become inconvenient and create clutter.

A wireless Ethernet bridge provides a simple solution to this problem. Plus, using a wireless bridge instead of an adapter in the remote computer provides greater power, offering a stronger signal throughout wider distances.

You’re Looking to Increase Your Network Length

We all know that cables are a pain. However, when you have an Ethernet-only connection, sometimes your only option is stringing lengths of cable together to reach every nook and cranny of the house. By purchasing a wireless bridge, you can expand your network coverage as far as you need it without sacrificing the convenience of a wireless connection.

You Use a Mac OS or Linux Computer

Ethernet bridges are particularly useful if you have a Mac OS or Linux computer with an Ethernet-only connection. By using a wireless Ethernet bridge, you avoid having to install drivers or client software, which can be more challenging and difficult to find in these types of computers.

Top Brands in the Wireless Ethernet Bridge Space

While all of the products that we have listed in this review come from well-respected brands, some stand out about the rest. Let’s take a look at two of the top brands in the wireless Ethernet bridge space:

TP-Link

First up comes the Chinese brand TP-Link, founded by brothers Zhao Jianjun and Zhao Jiaxing in 1996.

TP-Link has made a big name for themselves in the field of WiFi devices, as they expanded internationally from China to worldwide distribution in 2005.

When it comes to establishing an unbeatable connection with wireless devices, TP-Link products are known for providing top-quality products with outstanding stability and performance.

When it comes to selecting wireless Ethernet bridges, TP-Link is particularly dedicated to providing highly effective, affordable solutions for indoor and outdoor wireless networking applications, focusing on convenience. After all, there’s a reason why they’ve earned our number one spot!

TP-Link N300 CPE210

Tycon Power Systems

Tycon Power Systems has been in existence since 2008, after the success of the EZ-Bridge line of point-to-point wireless products - that’s right, this brand exists because their wireless Ethernet bridges are that good! Tycon Power Systems grew out of the need to incorporate power solutions for the wireless and surveillance technology markets.

Since the huge success of their EZ-Bridge products, they have released more products that are now leading the industry in the fields of power over Ethernet, wireless, remote power, and uninterrupted power technologies. This powerhouse company was awarded Utah's Best of State Award in 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, and 2018 and #911 in the 2013 Inc. 5000 fastest growing companies!

Wireless Repeater vs Wireless Bridge - Comparison Overview

If you’re looking to purchase a wireless Ethernet bridge, odds are you’ve also heard of a wireless repeater. So, what is the difference between the two? Wireless repeaters and wireless bridges are both networking devices. However, a wireless repeater’s purpose is to extend signal range, while a wireless bridge allows Ethernet-only devices to connect to wireless networks.

Wireless Repeater

A wireless repeater is not used to establish a WiFi connection. However, it is used to extend the coverage area of your WiFi network. A WiFi repeater (or extender, as it is also called) works by receiving your existing WiFi signal, boosting it, and transmitting the boosted signal. By using a WiFi repeater, you can double the coverage area of your WiFi network. A repeater also makes it possible to boost the signal traveling through a network cable.

Photo credit: home-network-help.com

Wireless Bridge

A wireless bridge works by connecting two different segments of a network. This helps divide up a large network into sections, reducing the number of devices connected to each section of your network. It can also enable non-wireless equipment such as devices that can only connect through Ethernet cables to connect to the WiFi network wirelessly.

Price Points of Wireless Ethernet Bridges

Of course, wireless Ethernet bridges are not offered at just one price point. Although there are plenty of options available that are both budget-friendly and provide all of the valuable features that you may need, there are also pricier options available that offer just that little bit more. Let’s take a look at the different price points: 

$20 - $40

At this price point, you’ll see brands such as TP-Link, Vonets, and NETGEAR. Products in this price range are often all you need to establish a powerful wireless network connection, offering an average wireless Bandwidth of up to 300 Mbps on a 2.4GHz network. In some cases, purchasing a highly cost-effective Ethernet bridge means choosing a product that you will have to replace after a relatively short period. However, by researching and choosing a top brand such as those mentioned above, your wireless Ethernet bridge should last you for a significant amount of time.

Vonets VAP11G-300

$40 -$100

At this price point, you’ll also see TP-Link and NETGEAR, as well as KuWFi and GL.iNet. Products in this price range often offer the same connection speed as their more cost-effective counterparts. However, they often come with multiple access points, which supports a lengthier signal transmission. You are essentially getting a wireless Ethernet bridge and an extender in one with multiple access points, covering up to 1 KM or more of distance from the same WiFi network.

$100+

Not unlike our previous price point, wireless Ethernet bridges at the $100+ range generally offer multiple access points. However, these products often specialize in scaling multiple buildings and are ideal for surveillance security and large work sites. These products also offer higher speeds that are not available at a lower price point.

Who Would Not Benefit From a Wireless Ethernet Bridge?

A wireless Ethernet bridge is beneficial for many reasons, offering a powerful solution for establishing network connectivity. Of course, despite the many benefits of this product, it is not for everybody. If you do not require an Ethernet connection for your products, this product is not for you. This product's primary purpose is to offer a wireless option for those who rely on Ethernet cables to establish an internet connection. 

Linksys WHW0301

If you are simply looking to extend your WiFi coverage and do not use electronics that require an Ethernet connection, then investing in a WiFi repeater or extender is the best option for you. This product is ideal when you need to establish a WiFi signal slightly outside of your house, such as in the case of a garage.

A WiFi extender is also a possible solution if you are looking to increase the speed of your internet, which is not the primary purpose of a wireless Ethernet bridge.

In short, do not purchase a wireless Ethernet bridge simply because you wish to extend the range of your WiFi or increase the speed of your internet.

Conclusion

By using a wireless Ethernet bridge, you will be able to connect two or more networks without dealing with a wired setup or the need to install drivers or additional software. These cost-effective and simple solutions allow you to connect previously Ethernet devices only to a wireless network, allowing the convenience of a wire-free setup.

People Also Ask

Looking for more information on wireless Ethernet bridges that haven’t been covered in this article? We’ve provided an FAQ section for that very reason! Let’s take a look at common questions we get asked about this game-changing product:

Do Ethernet Bridges Work?

Yes! - depending on what you need them for. Ethernet bridges work to provide a wire-free connection to devices that require an Ethernet connection to access the internet. Ethernet bridges work to provide a consistently strong connection to your network, which is free from interference. 

Linksys WHW0301

What Are the Advantages of Dividing an Ethernet Lan With a Bridge?

There are several advantages to dividing an Ethernet LAN with a bridge. A bridge can raise the bandwidth and separate collision domains, allowing a stronger connection to multiple devices over a broader range. A wireless bridge essentially creates more than one network while still connecting to the same router (meaning, just one internet bill!).

Does Wireless Bridge Reduce Speed?

A wireless bridge should in no way reduce your internet speed but will allow you to get the most out of your existing internet speed. You should not purchase a wireless Ethernet bridge if you're looking to increase your internet speed overall, as this product is not used for this purpose.



Austin

When the tech company I worked for restructured and I ended up jobless, I decided to put the wealth of knowledge and management skills to use somewhere new. I’d checked out a few buyer’s guides on the site in the past and reached out to the previous owner. A few months later, here we are. Now, I get to be behind the scenes, helping people find the best tech.