The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is C. A network switch.
A network switch is the essential piece of hardware that allows for the behavior described in the question. In a local area network (LAN), a switch acts as a central connection point for all devices, such as computers, printers, and servers. Its primary function is to intelligently manage the flow of data traffic between these devices.
When a device sends a piece of information, called a data frame, it is sent to the switch. The switch examines the header of this frame to identify the specific hardware address, known as the MAC address, of the intended recipient. The switch maintains a table that maps the MAC address of each connected device to the physical port it is plugged into. By referencing this table, the switch forwards the data frame only out of the single port that leads directly to the destination device. This process ensures that the information is sent privately and efficiently, without congesting the rest of the network.
Let’s consider the other options. A network repeater simply regenerates and retransmits a signal to extend its range; it does not read address information or make any forwarding decisions. It broadcasts all signals to all connected devices. A network bridge connects two separate network segments, filtering traffic between them, but a switch is the more advanced and appropriate device for managing traffic within a single network among many devices. Finally, a network node is just a generic term for any device connected to the network, like a computer or a printer, not the device that directs traffic.
Therefore, for the employees of Anna and Elsa Ice to send information selectively to specific colleagues, a network switch is required to intelligently route their data only to the intended recipient.
