Using a switch on an Ethernet network helps to reduce what?

Using a switch on an Ethernet network primarily helps to reduce collisions. In a basic Ethernet network that utilizes hubs, all devices share the same collision domain. This means that when multiple devices attempt to send data simultaneously, collisions can occur, leading to data being lost and the need for retransmission.

Switches operate at the data link layer (Layer 2) of the OSI model and use MAC addresses to intelligently forward data. Each port on a switch represents a separate collision domain, which significantly decreases the likelihood of collisions because devices connected to different ports can transmit data simultaneously without interference. This enhances overall network performance, as it allows for more efficient and reliable communication between devices.

While a switch can help with broadcast traffic to some extent, its primary function in reducing collisions is what makes it a fundamental component for improving network efficiency in Ethernet environments.