The ____ houses the switches in token ring.

MAU (Media Access Unit) is the correct answer. In a Token Ring network, the MAU houses the switching mechanism that connects and disconnects stations and helps manage the token-passing process. It functions as a central multi-station access unit and often appears as a hub-like device that preserves the logical ring even if individual ports are added or removed. Connects multiple stations into the Token Ring and maintains the logical ring topology.

Manages token passing by ensuring only the station holding the token can transmit.

Allows addition or removal of stations without breaking the ring (by internally switching ports).

Also called MSAU (Multistation Access Unit).