What is a device containing numerous network ports, but performing no additional functions?

The correct answer is a patch panel. A patch panel is a passive device used in networking that contains numerous network ports, allowing for the organization and management of network cables without performing any data processing or forwarding functions. It serves as a central location where different network cables can be connected and routed, but it does not have the capability to route packets or manage traffic like a switch or a router.

In contrast, a hub is a basic networking device that can connect multiple Ethernet devices, making them act as a single network segment, but it does perform basic data forwarding functions, albeit inefficiently. A switch is more advanced than a hub; it can intelligently forward data packets to specific devices based on MAC addresses. A router, on the other hand, connects different networks and directs data traffic between them, performing additional functions such as IP address assignment and traffic management.

Therefore, the patch panel remains the only device among the options that fits the description of having many network ports without performing any additional functions.