Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The question asks to match four standard computer networking devices (List-I) with their primary operational descriptions (List-II). Step 2: Analysis of the Network Devices:
Let us examine each device and find its match:
- A. Modem: Short for Modulator-Demodulator. Its primary purpose is to convert digital data from a computer into analog signals to travel over analog lines (modulation) and vice versa (demodulation). This matches description III.
- B. Ethernet: Refers to the standard wired networking technology, which relies on an Ethernet network adapter (NIC) installed in devices to establish physical wired connections. This matches description I.
- C. Router: An intelligent device operating at the Network Layer (Layer 3) that receives, analyzes, and routes data packets across different computer networks. This matches description IV.
- D. Switch: A multi-port hardware device operating at the Data Link Layer (Layer 2) that connects multiple computers and communication devices together within a single LAN. This matches description II. Step 3: Compiling the Match:
Putting the matches together:
- A $\rightarrow$ III
- B $\rightarrow$ I
- C $\rightarrow$ IV
- D $\rightarrow$ II
- This sequence corresponds exactly to Option (B). Step 4: Final Answer:
The correct matching sequence is A-III, B-I, C-IV, D-II.
Hence, option (B) is the correct choice.
