What is the purpose of a "switch" in a network?
2024
What is the purpose of a "switch" in a network?
- A.
To improve network speed
- B.
To prevent unauthorized access to a network
- C.
To forward network traffic between different networks
- D.
To connect devices within a local network
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Correct answer: D
Answer: To connect devices within a local network
Explanation: A switch connects devices on a local area network (LAN) and forwards frames between them so each device can communicate with the correct destination.
Operates at OSI Layer 2 (data link layer): uses MAC addresses to decide which port should receive each frame.
Builds and maintains a MAC address table (switching table) that maps device MAC addresses to specific switch ports.
Improves LAN efficiency by sending frames only to the destination port rather than broadcasting to all ports, which reduces collisions and increases effective bandwidth.
Does not typically forward traffic between different IP networks; routing between networks is performed by routers. Some advanced switches (Layer 3 or multilayer switches) can also perform routing as an added feature.
May support VLANs and port-based security features to help segment and secure network traffic, but those are supplementary capabilities.