What is the purpose of a network switch?

The purpose of a network switch is to connect devices within a local area network (LAN) and effectively manage the data flow between them. A switch operates at the data link layer of the OSI model, which allows it to receive data packets from a device, process the destination MAC address, and then forward that data to the appropriate device within the network. This function enhances the efficiency of the network by reducing collisions and ensuring that devices can communicate directly with one another, leading to improved overall performance and speed.

In contrast, converting digital signals to analog is the role of a modem, which is not relevant in the context of a switch's functionality. Securely routing data over the internet pertains to routers, which operate at a different layer and have distinct responsibilities such as directing traffic between different networks instead of managing communications within a single LAN. Providing wireless connectivity involves access points or wireless routers, which serve a different purpose than that of a network switch, focusing on connecting wireless devices rather than wired connections.