20. Which piece of network equipment extends the cable range and allows connections to be made by increasing the signal strength?
Answer: D
A repeater extends the cable range by increasing the signal strength.
A repeater is specifically designed to receive a signal and regenerate it, effectively extending the distance over which data can travel in a network.
A) Router
A router primarily directs traffic between different networks and manages data packets, but it does not extend the cable range or strengthen signals. Its function is more about connectivity and routing rather than amplifying signals.
B) Switch
A switch connects devices within the same network and facilitates communication between them. While it improves network efficiency by managing data traffic, it does not enhance signal strength or extend cable range.
C) Firewall
A firewall serves as a security device that monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules. It does not play a role in extending cable range or amplifying signals.
D) Repeater
A repeater is designed to amplify and regenerate signals, allowing data to travel further without degradation. This is the essential function that makes it the correct choice for extending cable ranges in a network.
Conclusion
The repeater is the only device among the options that specifically addresses the need to extend cable range by increasing signal strength. Other devices like routers, switches, and firewalls serve different functions related to routing, connecting, and securing network traffic, but they do not amplify signals or extend distance. Thus, D is the definitive correct answer.