ASwitch
BHub
CRouter
DBridge
Answer:
C. Router
Read Explanation:
A Router is the device that performs packet switching and determines the optimal path for data to travel across different networks.
Packet Switching: Routers work at Layer 3 (Network Layer) of the OSI model. They receive data, which is divided into units called packets. They examine the destination IP address in the packet header.
Optimal Path Determination: A router maintains a routing table which contains information about the paths to different networks. Using sophisticated protocols (like OSPF or BGP), it determines the most efficient path (usually based on metrics like the shortest hop count or lowest latency) for the packet to reach its final destination.
Connecting Networks: Routers are essential for connecting Local Area Networks (LANs) to other networks, most notably the Internet.
(A) Switch: Works at Layer 2 (Data Link Layer). It performs frame switching based on MAC addresses within a single LAN, not packet switching between networks.
(B) Hub: Works at Layer 1 (Physical Layer). It simply broadcasts data to all connected devices and does not perform any intelligent switching, filtering, or path determination.
(D) Bridge: Works at Layer 2 (Data Link Layer). Like a switch, it filters traffic based on MAC addresses but is generally used to connect two separate LAN segments rather than routing between different networks.