In a Local Area Network (LAN), which of the following is most commonly used to ensure that data packets are efficiently forwarded to the correct device, based on its MAC address?

Correct option is B

In a Local Area Network (LAN), a Layer 3 Switch is most commonly used to ensure that data packets are efficiently forwarded to the correct device based on its MAC address. Layer 3 switches combine the functionality of a traditional Layer 2 switch (which forwards data based on MAC addresses) with routing capabilities, enabling them to make forwarding decisions using both MAC addresses and IP addresses. This makes Layer 3 switches effective for more complex network designs where routing and switching are needed within the same device.
Important Key Points:
1. Layer 2 and Layer 3 Functions: A Layer 3 switch operates at both Layer 2 (Data Link Layer) and Layer 3 (Network Layer) of the OSI model, allowing it to switch data based on MAC addresses and route packets using IP addresses.
2. Efficient Forwarding: Layer 3 switches can forward data more efficiently than traditional routers in a LAN environment due to their integrated switching and routing capabilities.
3. Network Segmentation: These switches are often used in larger LANs to segment the network into different subnets and ensure smooth data flow between them.
4. MAC Address-Based Forwarding: While they can route traffic based on IP addresses, Layer 3 switches still use MAC addresses to forward data at the link layer, making them ideal for efficient LAN operations.
Knowledge Booster:
· Bridge: A bridge is used to connect two segments of a network and filter traffic based on MAC addresses. However, it doesn't offer the same performance or routing capabilities as a Layer 3 switch.
· Hub: A hub is a basic networking device that forwards data to all connected devices, without any filtering or addressing. It doesn't operate based on MAC addresses and doesn't direct traffic efficiently.
· Router: While routers also use IP addresses to forward data, they operate at Layer 3 and are generally used for communication between different networks (such as between LANs and WANs), not typically within a single LAN.