Which two characteristics of switches can help reduce network congestion?

Which two characteristics of switches can help reduce network congestion?

• A. High latency and small frame buffers
• B. Fast internal switching and large frame buffers
• C. Low power consumption and high security
• D. Simple configuration and fewer ports

Answer: (B)

Fast internal switching and large frame buffers are key characteristics of switches that help reduce network congestion effectively. High-speed internal switching allows a switch to handle data packets more quickly, minimizing the wait time for packets to be forwarded from one port to another. This speedy processing helps maintain a smooth flow of data traffic, especially during peak usage times or when multiple devices are trying to communicate simultaneously. Large frame buffers support this capability by providing ample temporary storage for packets during traffic spikes. When data traffic increases beyond normal levels, having larger frame buffers allows the switch to hold onto packets until they can be transmitted without loss. This buffering capability reduces the likelihood of dropped packets, which can otherwise lead to retransmissions and increased congestion on the network. In contrast, other options do not contribute significantly to reducing congestion. High latency and small frame buffers would likely contribute to a bottleneck. Low power consumption and high security do not directly relate to the performance in terms of traffic handling. Likewise, having simple configuration and fewer ports might limit the overall capacity of the network design, potentially leading to congestion if the network becomes overwhelmed.

Fast internal switching and large frame buffers are key characteristics of switches that help reduce network congestion effectively. High-speed internal switching allows a switch to handle data packets more quickly, minimizing the wait time for packets to be forwarded from one port to another. This speedy processing helps maintain a smooth flow of data traffic, especially during peak usage times or when multiple devices are trying to communicate simultaneously.

Large frame buffers support this capability by providing ample temporary storage for packets during traffic spikes. When data traffic increases beyond normal levels, having larger frame buffers allows the switch to hold onto packets until they can be transmitted without loss. This buffering capability reduces the likelihood of dropped packets, which can otherwise lead to retransmissions and increased congestion on the network.

In contrast, other options do not contribute significantly to reducing congestion. High latency and small frame buffers would likely contribute to a bottleneck. Low power consumption and high security do not directly relate to the performance in terms of traffic handling. Likewise, having simple configuration and fewer ports might limit the overall capacity of the network design, potentially leading to congestion if the network becomes overwhelmed.