Which of the following is a function of hubs and repeaters?

The function of hubs and repeaters primarily revolves around the ability to extend network connectivity over a greater distance. Hubs operate at the physical layer of the OSI model, simply taking in a signal on one port and broadcasting it to all other ports. This capability effectively allows devices on the same network segment to communicate with each other, even if they are physically separated by longer cable runs.

Repeaters, on the other hand, regenerate signals to ensure that they can travel further distances without losing quality. For example, when a signal travels over a long cable length, it may degrade, leading to potential data loss or communication errors. By using repeaters, these signals can be amplified and sent further, helping to maintain the integrity of data transmission over extended distances.

In contrast, the functions of filtering network traffic, encrypting data packets, and routing data to multiple paths are associated with more advanced networking devices, such as switches, routers, and security appliances. These devices operate at higher layers of the OSI model and have the capabilities necessary to manage data flow, secure transmissions, and facilitate complex routing decisions that are beyond the simple functionality of hubs and repeaters.