Final answer:
In a GIS, switching nodes are responsible for routing packets to their destinations, as opposed to firewalls, cookies, or proxy servers which serve different purposes in network operations.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of a global information system (GIS), a global network must have switching nodes to guide packets to their destinations. These nodes play a crucial role in managing the flow of data across the network by making decisions on how to route packets based on the destination address contained within each packet. They work by rapidly switching packets from one route to another, ensuring that they reach the correct destination efficiently.
Firewalls are security devices that filter incoming and outgoing network traffic based on an established set of security rules. Cookies are small pieces of data stored on a user's computer by the web browser while browsing. Proxy servers act as intermediaries for requests from clients seeking resources from other servers. However, these components don't serve the primary function of guiding packets through a network like switching nodes do.