What is the primary function of switches in a network?

Switches in a network primarily function to enable segmentation of local area networks (LANs). By connecting individual devices, such as computers, printers, and servers within a LAN, switches facilitate communication within the network. They create separate collision domains for each device, allowing for more efficient data transfer by reducing the chances of packet collisions. This segmentation enhances overall network performance and can improve security by isolating different parts of the network.

While managing and securing external connections is an important network function, it is typically performed by routers or firewalls rather than switches. Redundancy in network paths is also a crucial function, generally associated with devices like routers or specialized protocols designed for redundancy. Firewalls serve a distinct role by controlling incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predefined security rules and are not the primary function of switches. Thus, the primary focus of switches on segmentation is what makes this answer correct.