Which two devices are primarily used to connect computers within a single network?

Hubs and switches are fundamental devices used within a local area network (LAN) to facilitate communication between computers. A hub is a basic networking device that connects multiple computers in a network and broadcasts incoming data packets to all connected devices, allowing them to receive data from each other. However, hubs operate at a lower level of efficiency since they do not process data intelligently.

On the other hand, switches operate at a more advanced level. They are designed to receive incoming data packets and determine the destination address, efficiently directing the data only to the device it is intended for. This results in improved performance and reduced network congestion compared to hubs. Switches enhance overall network efficiency and speed because they can handle large amounts of data traffic while ensuring that devices communicate precisely without unnecessary interference.

In summary, both hubs and switches play a crucial role in connecting computers within a single network, with switches providing a more efficient method of managing data traffic.