Final answer:
A network switch connects multiple devices and intelligently forwards data packets to the designated host using MAC addresses, improving network efficiency.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question asks which statement best describes how a network switch functions. A network switch connects multiple cable segments or devices and forwards data packets to the appropriate host. Unlike a hub, which would broadcast data to all its ports, a switch uses MAC addresses to learn which device is connected to each port and then intelligently forwards data packets only to the specific host to which the data is meant to go. This reduces unnecessary traffic on the network and improves overall efficiency.