Which component in a network topology connects multiple devices, often functioning at a point where data converges?

Which component in a network topology connects multiple devices, often functioning at a point where data converges?

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

Answer: (B)

The correct answer is the switch, as it plays a crucial role in network topology by connecting multiple devices and allowing them to communicate with each other efficiently. A switch operates at the data link layer (Layer 2) of the OSI model, managing data traffic between the devices on a local area network (LAN). When data packets arrive at a switch, it receives them and directs them to the appropriate device based on the MAC addresses associated with those devices. This process minimizes data collisions, enhances network efficiency, and enables better overall performance compared to other connection devices. In contrast, a router primarily connects different networks and directs data traffic between them, working at the network layer (Layer 3). A hub, while it can connect multiple devices, broadcasts data to all connections without filtering, leading to inefficiencies and potential data collisions. A bridge is used to join two network segments and operate at the data link layer, but it does not handle data traffic as effectively as a switch that can manage multiple connections directly and intelligently. This positions the switch as the most effective component for managing device communication at a convergence point in a network topology.

The correct answer is the switch, as it plays a crucial role in network topology by connecting multiple devices and allowing them to communicate with each other efficiently. A switch operates at the data link layer (Layer 2) of the OSI model, managing data traffic between the devices on a local area network (LAN). When data packets arrive at a switch, it receives them and directs them to the appropriate device based on the MAC addresses associated with those devices. This process minimizes data collisions, enhances network efficiency, and enables better overall performance compared to other connection devices.

In contrast, a router primarily connects different networks and directs data traffic between them, working at the network layer (Layer 3). A hub, while it can connect multiple devices, broadcasts data to all connections without filtering, leading to inefficiencies and potential data collisions. A bridge is used to join two network segments and operate at the data link layer, but it does not handle data traffic as effectively as a switch that can manage multiple connections directly and intelligently. This positions the switch as the most effective component for managing device communication at a convergence point in a network topology.