Which device provides connectivity to hosts within the same LAN?

A switch is a network device that primarily connects hosts within the same Local Area Network (LAN). It operates at Layer 2 of the OSI model and uses MAC addresses to forward data frames to the correct destination within the network. When a device sends data to another device on the same LAN, the switch intelligently interprets the MAC address of the intended recipient and delivers the data only to that device, rather than broadcasting it to all connected devices. This efficiency helps to reduce network congestion and improves overall performance.

While hubs can also provide connectivity within a LAN, they operate in a less efficient manner. Hubs broadcast incoming data packets to all connected devices without filtering, meaning that all devices receive all packets regardless of the intended recipient. This can lead to unnecessary traffic and collisions on the network.

Routers, on the other hand, connect different networks and operate at Layer 3 of the OSI model by making forwarding decisions based on IP addresses. They are not primarily focused on connecting hosts within the same LAN.

Modems are used to connect a network to the internet and modulate/demodulate signals but do not connect hosts within a local network.

Given these roles and capabilities, a switch is the most appropriate choice for providing connectivity to hosts within the