What is typically the role of a Network Switch in a data center?

The role of a Network Switch in a data center is primarily to manage and route data traffic among multiple devices. This is a crucial function as it allows for the efficient transfer of data packets between computers, servers, and other network devices.

Network switches operate at the data link layer (Layer 2) and sometimes at the network layer (Layer 3) of the OSI model, depending on whether they are layer 2 or layer 3 switches. Their capability to create a network of multiple devices means they can significantly enhance network performance by reducing latency and preventing data collisions. By managing which device communicates with which other device, switches play an essential role in ensuring that data moves efficiently across the network and that bandwidth is utilized effectively.

In contrast, other options do not accurately reflect the primary function of a network switch. While wireless devices may connect to certain network configurations, switches typically handle wired connections. Storing large amounts of data is primarily a function of storage devices rather than switches, and although switches can facilitate internet access as part of a broader network design, they do not specifically provide internet access themselves. Hence, the central and correct role of a network switch lies in managing and routing data traffic among devices within a data center.