A communications device that provides high-performance, reliable, and secure Distributed Network Protocol 3 (DNP3) transport between remote terminal units (RTUs) and data centers. Bridges are manufactured to perform one of two roles, either Master or Remote. Each Master Bridge provides the connection or take-out point for any Distribution Automation (DA) device it communicates with, back to the SCADA system. Remote Bridges connect to RTUs to provide connectivity and communications back to the Master.