What device minimizes collision in a network by connecting hosts based on MAC addresses?

The correct answer is a switch, which operates at the data link layer (Layer 2) of the OSI model. Switches minimize collisions in a network by intelligently forwarding data frames only to the specific device (host) with the corresponding MAC address instead of broadcasting the frames to all connected devices. This targeted communication reduces the chances of multiple devices trying to send data simultaneously, which is what causes collisions in networks.

By maintaining a MAC address table, the switch learns the addresses of the devices connected to each of its ports, allowing it to send data packets directly to their intended recipient. This not only enhances the efficiency of network traffic but also improves overall network performance and bandwidth utilization. In summary, switches are designed to create a more effective networking environment by connecting hosts based on their unique MAC addresses, thereby minimizing collisions.