Table of Contents
Which Networking Device Operates at the Data Link Layer to Connect Segments?
Learn why a network switch is the key device that operates at the data link layer. Discover how switches connect multiple network segments and use MAC addresses to efficiently manage local data traffic.
Question
Which networking device, operating at the data link layer, connects multiple network segments, and each port is connected to a different segment?
A. Switch
B. Server
C. Client
D. Hub
Answer
A. Switch
Explanation
A network switch is a highly efficient device that operates at Layer 2, known as the data link layer, of the OSI model. Unlike older, less intelligent devices like hubs that simply broadcast data to every connected computer, a switch is much smarter. It connects multiple separate network segments together, with every individual port acting as its own dedicated segment. By reading the unique physical MAC addresses of the connected devices, a switch ensures that data frames are forwarded only to the specific port and device they are meant for, which drastically reduces network congestion and improves overall performance.
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