What is the key difference between a hub and a switch?

The key difference between a hub and a switch lies in how they handle data transmission. A hub operates on a basic level, forwarding incoming data packets to all of its ports regardless of the intended recipient. This means that every device connected to a hub receives every piece of data sent through it, which can lead to network congestion and inefficiency as all devices process packets that may not be intended for them.

In contrast, a switch is more sophisticated. It operates by examining the data packets and determining which device is the intended recipient based on the MAC address, allowing it to send the data only to that specific device. This targeted approach significantly reduces unnecessary data traffic on the network, enhancing overall performance and efficiency.

Thus, the correct answer highlights the fundamental operational distinction between these two types of networking devices, underscoring the switch's ability to manage data more intelligently than a hub.