What does a trunk port typically connect to?

A trunk port is primarily used to connect network devices that need to share multiple VLANs (Virtual Local Area Networks). It allows the transmission of traffic from multiple VLANs across a single physical link. Typically, a trunk port connects two switches, enabling VLAN tagging and the propagation of VLAN information between them. This is essential in maintaining VLAN configurations and ensuring that traffic from different VLANs is properly segregated while still traversing a common physical infrastructure.

When a trunk port is established between switches, it uses protocols such as IEEE 802.1Q to encapsulate the VLAN information. As a result, the switches can process and forward frames based on their respective VLANs, allowing for efficient management of network resources and traffic flow.

While client devices, routers, and firewalls may have specific connectivity requirements, they do not typically utilize trunk ports for their standard operations. Client devices usually connect via access ports, while routers and firewalls would generally connect to switches using access ports or through specific interfaces designed for routed protocols rather than trunking. Thus, the primary function of a trunk port is connecting switches, which makes this choice the most appropriate in the context of VLAN management and inter-switch connectivity.