Which device acts as the main connection point for multiple end hosts in a LAN?

In a Local Area Network (LAN), the device that acts as the main connection point for multiple end hosts is a switch. A switch operates at the data link layer of the OSI model and is designed to facilitate the exchange of data packets between connected devices, such as computers, printers, and servers, within the same network.

Unlike a hub, which broadcasts data to all connected devices regardless of the intended recipient, a switch intelligently forwards data only to the device that needs it based on MAC addresses. This not only improves network efficiency by reducing unnecessary traffic but also enhances security as it limits data exposure to only the intended recipient.

Additionally, while routers are crucial for directing traffic between different networks, and bridges operate to connect and filter traffic within a single network segment, they are not primarily the central connection point for end hosts in a LAN as a switch is. Therefore, a switch plays a pivotal role in managing and optimizing local network traffic, making it the correct choice in this context.