A network switch is a device that connects multiple devices within a local area network (LAN). It uses packet switching to receive, process, and forward data to the correct destination device. This helps improve communication efficiency by reducing data collisions and ensuring that data packets reach their intended recipients quickly.
Network switches operate at the data link layer of the OSI model, allowing them to manage data traffic between devices like computers, printers, and servers. They can be either managed or unmanaged, with managed switches offering advanced features like traffic monitoring and configuration options for better network control.
