macOS · Network & Internet
Network two Macs directly over Thunderbolt
Thunderbolt Bridge creates a direct, high-speed network connection between two Macs connected with a Thunderbolt cable, useful for fast file transfers or Target Disk Mode-style workflows without a router.
How to open Thunderbolt Bridge
- Connect both Macs with a Thunderbolt cable
- Open System Settings → Network on each Mac
- Confirm the Thunderbolt Bridge service appears and shows as connected
- Assign IP addresses manually if automatic addressing does not connect
What you should know
- Appears as its own network service once a Thunderbolt cable is connected between two Macs
- Supports IP configuration just like Ethernet or Wi-Fi services
- Offers significantly higher throughput than typical Wi-Fi or standard Ethernet
- Useful for migrating large amounts of data directly between two Macs
Why it matters
When moving very large amounts of data between two Macs, such as during a computer migration or transferring a large video project, a direct Thunderbolt connection can be dramatically faster and more reliable than going through Wi-Fi or a shared network switch. It essentially turns a simple cable into a private, high-bandwidth network link between exactly two machines.
Best practices
- Use a certified Thunderbolt cable rather than a generic USB-C cable for full speed
- Set static IP addresses on each Mac's Thunderbolt Bridge service if automatic addressing does not connect promptly
- Use Thunderbolt Bridge specifically for large local transfers rather than everyday internet access
- Disconnect the cable when finished to avoid confusion with other active network services
Common problems and fixes
- Thunderbolt Bridge service does not appear
- Confirm the cable and ports on both Macs support Thunderbolt, and that the cable is fully seated on both ends.
- The two Macs cannot see each other over the bridge
- Manually assign compatible static IP addresses to each Mac's Thunderbolt Bridge service, such as 169.254.1.1 and 169.254.1.2.
- Transfer speeds are lower than expected
- Confirm both Macs and the cable support the same Thunderbolt generation, since mismatched hardware can cap speed to the slowest component.
Tips and tricks
- Use Migration Assistant over a Thunderbolt Bridge connection for the fastest possible Mac-to-Mac data migration.
- Rename the Thunderbolt Bridge service in Network settings if you use it often, to make it easier to find.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need special software for Thunderbolt Bridge?
No, it is built into macOS and appears automatically as a network service once a compatible cable connects two Macs.
Can I use Thunderbolt Bridge for internet sharing?
It is primarily designed for direct Mac-to-Mac networking rather than sharing an internet connection, though internet sharing can technically be layered on top.
Is this the same as Target Disk Mode?
No, Target Disk Mode shares a Mac's storage as an external drive, while Thunderbolt Bridge creates a standard IP network connection.
Related settings
- EthernetEthernet settings manage wired network connections through built-in Ethernet ports or USB and Thunderbolt adapters, including IP configuration, DNS, and connection priority relative to Wi-Fi.
- AirDrop & HandoffAirDrop lets you wirelessly send files, photos, and links directly to nearby Apple devices without email or messaging apps, while Handoff lets you start something on one Apple device — like a browser tab or email draft — and pick it up instantly on your Mac.
- Storage ManagementStorage settings show a visual breakdown of exactly what's using space on your Mac's disk, plus built-in recommendations — like storing files in iCloud or automatically emptying the Trash — to free up space without manually hunting for large files yourself.
More Network & Internet guides for macOS
- Wi-Fi ConnectionWi-Fi settings let you join, manage, and prioritize wireless networks on your Mac, including hidden networks and networks that require a captive-portal sign-in.
- Bluetooth DevicesBluetooth settings let you pair and manage wireless accessories such as keyboards, trackpads, mice, headphones, and speakers with your Mac.
- VPN & Network ProfilesVPN settings let you connect to a private network over an encrypted tunnel — common for remote work — while Network preferences let you manage multiple connection profiles, proxies, and advanced TCP/IP settings for different locations or services.
- Screen Sharing & Remote LoginScreen Sharing lets you view and control another Mac's screen remotely (or let someone control yours), while Remote Login enables secure command-line (SSH) access to your Mac from another computer. Both are toggled independently under Sharing settings.
- FirewallThe built-in Firewall controls which apps and services are allowed to accept incoming network connections, adding a layer of protection against unauthorized access while connected to any network.
- ProxiesProxy settings let you route web and other network traffic for a given network connection through a specified proxy server, either configured manually or automatically via a PAC file or auto-discovery protocol.