In terms of network efficiency, which of the following is a primary advantage of using a switch over a hub?

Using a switch offers a primary advantage in terms of network efficiency because switches are designed to reduce network collisions. In a network where a hub is used, all devices share the same bandwidth, and data packets collide when two devices attempt to send data simultaneously. This collision leads to delays and retransmissions, reducing overall network performance.

In contrast, switches intelligently direct data packets to the specific device for which the data is intended based on MAC address information. This means that only the destination device is affected by the transmission, effectively eliminating collisions on the network. By creating separate collision domains for each connected device, switches enhance data transfer efficiency and network stability, allowing for higher throughput and better resource utilization.

This clear distinction in how data is managed between switches and hubs is fundamental to modern networking practices, highlighting the efficiency benefits of switches.