Which term refers to a basic switch with plug-n-play functionality?

Which term refers to a basic switch with plug-n-play functionality?

• A. Unmanaged Switch
• B. Managed Switch
• C. Router
• D. Bridge

Answer: (A)

This tests recognizing a plug-and-play, no-configuration network device that simply expands the number of Ethernet ports. An unmanaged switch fits this description: it’s designed to be used right out of the box with no management interface or configuration required. It automatically learns MAC addresses and forwards frames between ports, providing basic connectivity without features like VLANs, QoS, or remote management. If you needed more control, you’d look to a managed switch, which offers configuration options and monitoring. A router serves to connect different networks and performs routing, NAT, and firewall tasks rather than just expanding LAN ports. A bridge is a data-link–level device that can connect segments, but the term most commonly paired with “plug-and-play” networking today is unmanaged switch for a basic, no-friction expansion of ports.

This tests recognizing a plug-and-play, no-configuration network device that simply expands the number of Ethernet ports. An unmanaged switch fits this description: it’s designed to be used right out of the box with no management interface or configuration required. It automatically learns MAC addresses and forwards frames between ports, providing basic connectivity without features like VLANs, QoS, or remote management.

If you needed more control, you’d look to a managed switch, which offers configuration options and monitoring. A router serves to connect different networks and performs routing, NAT, and firewall tasks rather than just expanding LAN ports. A bridge is a data-link–level device that can connect segments, but the term most commonly paired with “plug-and-play” networking today is unmanaged switch for a basic, no-friction expansion of ports.