A data source on a main local area network (LAN) transmits broadcast messages via bridges to remote stations. A ring buffer in a bridge on the main LAN buffers a selected number of packets received from the data source. When the main bridge on the main LAN receives a "Lost Frame Message" from a remote bridge, not on the main LAN, the main bridge backs up to the address of the lost packet in the ring buffer, and retransmits the lost packet and then continues sequential transmission of subsequent packets. If buffer is, filled above a pre-set criteria, retransmission is slowed or stopped until buffer is mostly emptied.