What device would you use to expand the number of devices on a local area network?

A switch is the correct choice for expanding the number of devices on a local area network (LAN). A switch operates at the data link layer of the OSI model, allowing multiple devices within the same network to communicate with each other. It effectively connects various devices, such as computers, printers, and servers, enabling them to share data amongst themselves efficiently.

By creating more ports than what is available on existing devices, a switch allows for the addition of more endpoints, ensuring that each connected device can send and receive data simultaneously across a shared network without traffic collisions. This capability is particularly important in networks where high bandwidth and low latency are required, such as those used for digital audio networks like Dante.

Other devices such as routers, bridges, and firewalls serve different functions within a network. Routers are primarily used to connect different networks and manage traffic between them, while bridges are used to connect and filter traffic between two network segments. Firewalls provide security by monitoring and controlling incoming and outgoing network traffic. Therefore, while these devices play important roles in networking, switches are specifically designed for expanding the number of connection points within a LAN.