Switching and bridging in Computer Networks - Cheat Sheet & Quick Revision

Recall & Review

beginner

What is the main purpose of a network switch?

A network switch connects devices within a local area network (LAN) and forwards data only to the device that needs it, improving network efficiency.

intermediate

How does a network bridge differ from a switch?

A bridge connects two separate network segments and filters traffic between them based on MAC addresses, while a switch connects multiple devices within a single network segment.

beginner

What is MAC address learning in switching?

MAC address learning is when a switch records the MAC addresses of devices connected to each port to know where to send data frames efficiently.

intermediate

Why is bridging important in network design?

Bridging helps divide a large network into smaller segments, reducing traffic and collisions, which improves overall network performance.

beginner

What happens when a switch receives a frame with an unknown destination MAC address?

The switch forwards the frame to all ports except the one it came from, a process called flooding, to find the destination device.

What device connects multiple devices within the same LAN and forwards data based on MAC addresses?

A Router

B Switch

C Bridge

D Modem

A switch connects devices in a LAN and forwards data frames based on MAC addresses.

Which device is used to connect two separate network segments and reduce traffic between them?

A Switch

B Repeater

C Bridge

D Hub

A bridge connects two network segments and filters traffic to reduce unnecessary data flow.

What is the process called when a switch sends a frame to all ports except the source port?

A Flooding

B Broadcasting

C Routing

D Filtering

Flooding is when a switch sends a frame to all ports except the one it came from to find the destination.

Why do switches learn MAC addresses?

A To forward frames efficiently

B To encrypt data

C To assign IP addresses

D To connect to the internet

Switches learn MAC addresses to know where to send data frames directly, improving efficiency.

What is one benefit of using bridging in a network?

A Increasing network collisions

B Connecting to the internet

C Replacing routers

D Dividing a network into smaller segments

Bridging divides a large network into smaller parts, reducing traffic and collisions.

Explain how a network switch uses MAC addresses to forward data within a LAN.

Think about how the switch remembers device locations.

Describe the role of a network bridge and how it helps improve network performance.

Consider how dividing a network helps.