Which statement best describes the function of a switch in networking?

The statement that best describes the function of a switch in networking is that it connects devices and regulates traffic between them. A switch operates at the data link layer of the OSI model and is primarily responsible for managing data traffic within a local area network (LAN).

When devices such as computers, printers, and servers are connected to a switch, the switch creates a network and enables communication between these devices. It does this by receiving incoming data packets, determining their destination MAC addresses, and then forwarding them only to the specific device that needs the data. This process minimizes unnecessary traffic on the network, ensuring that each device can communicate efficiently without interference from other devices.

In contrast, other functions associated with networking do not accurately reflect the role of a switch. For instance, forwarding packets to another network is typically a function of routers, which handle traffic between different networks and guide packets based on their destination IP addresses. Data compression and encryption are more related to the processes of optimizing and securing data transmission, often managed by dedicated hardware or software, rather than being a primary function of a switch.