Abstract: A computer system is capable of recovering from a deadlock using communication gateway devices, such as a bridges, which each use a deadlock recovery mechanism. Rather than avoid deadlocks through constant monitoring of the communications path, the bridge allows the deadlock to occur. The recovery mechanisms of the bridges control the resolution of the deadlock. In one embodiment, the recovery mechanism within each bridge causes the local device which controls its bridge to disconnect. Additionally, the bridges terminate their requests for control of each other, thereby breaking the deadlock and allowing communications to resume. In another embodiment, the recovery mechanism within each bridge terminates the bridge's request for control of the other bridge. Additionally, the recovery mechanisms cause the bridges to become idle in accordance with a time delay value. The bridge with the shorter delay becomes active first and takes control of the communication path, thereby breaking the deadlock.