Question

Which device connects multiple computers in a LAN and filters traffic based on MAC addresses?

• A. Switch
• B. Router
• C. Hub
• D. Bridge

Answer 1

Answer:

A. Switch

A switch is a network device that connects multiple devices (like computers, servers, printers) in a Local Area Network (LAN). Its key function is to learn the MAC addresses of all connected devices and use this information to filter and forward traffic only to the intended recipient.

• Switch (Layer 2 Device):

  • Connects: Multiple devices within a LAN.

  • Traffic Management: Learns MAC addresses and forwards data frames selectively, reducing unnecessary traffic (collisions) and improving network efficiency.

  • Filtering: Uses a MAC address table to direct traffic.

• Router (Layer 3 Device):

  • Connects: Different networks (e.g., your home network to the internet) or subnets.

  • Traffic Management: Uses IP addresses to route data packets between networks.

  • Filtering: Filters traffic based on IP addresses.

• Hub (Layer 1 Device):

  • Connects: Multiple devices within a LAN.

  • Traffic Management: Does not filter. It simply takes incoming data and broadcasts it to all other connected devices, which creates unnecessary traffic.

• Bridge (Layer 2 Device):

  • Connects: Two separate LAN segments.

  • Traffic Management: Like a switch, it uses MAC addresses to filter traffic, but it is typically used for connecting just two segments, whereas a switch can connect many ports and devices. A switch is essentially a multi-port bridge.