What type of device is typically used for network traffic management and monitoring in large data centers?

The choice of a switch as the device typically used for network traffic management and monitoring in large data centers is appropriate due to its role in managing data flow within local area networks (LANs). Switches operate at the data link layer of the OSI model, allowing them to forward data packets based on MAC addresses. This capability enables efficient management of network traffic by directing data to the specific devices that need it, minimizing unnecessary data collisions and maximizing bandwidth utilization.

In large data centers, where numerous devices are interconnected, the switch provides scalability and performance by handling multiple connections and high data transfer rates. Furthermore, many modern switches come equipped with features such as VLAN support, Quality of Service (QoS) policies, and monitoring capabilities, which allow for better network segmentation and control of traffic.

Unlike routers, which primarily handle data routing between different networks, switches focus on local traffic management. Firewalls serve a different purpose by providing security to the network, and bridges are generally used to connect and filter traffic between two or more network segments but do not have the same comprehensive capabilities for traffic management and monitoring as switches.