Which functionality is NOT provided by a Layer 2 switch?

A Layer 2 switch is primarily responsible for providing functionality that operates at the data link layer of the OSI model. One of its main roles is to forward frames based on MAC (Media Access Control) addresses, which allows it to direct traffic efficiently within a local area network (LAN). Additionally, Layer 2 switches can create Virtual Local Area Networks (VLANs) to segment network traffic for better organizational and security purposes. They can also filter broadcast traffic to limit unnecessary traffic in each segment of the network, thereby enhancing overall network efficiency.

Routing packets, however, involves the Layer 3 functionality, which is associated with routing protocols and IP addressing. Routers operate at this layer to connect different networks and determine the best path for forwarding data packets between them. Because Layer 2 switches do not include the capability to examine or route traffic based on IP addresses, but rather work exclusively with MAC addresses in the same broadcast domain, the functionality of routing packets between different networks is not something they provide. This distinction is crucial in understanding how different networking devices function and where they apply within network architecture.