* A network administrator would like to purchase a device that provides access ports to endpoints and has the ability to route between networks. This means that the device should be able to operate at both the data link layer (layer 2) and the network layer (layer 3) of the OSI model.
* An IPS (intrusion prevention system) is a security device that monitors network traffic and blocks or modifies malicious packets. It operates at the application layer (layer 7) of the OSI model and does not provide access ports or routing functions1.
* A Layer 3 switch is a device that combines the features of a switch and a router. It can forward frames based on MAC addresses at layer 2 and route packets based on IP addresses at layer 3. It also provides access ports to connect endpoints such as computers, printers, and servers. A Layer 3 switch is faster and more efficient than a router because it makes forwarding decisions in hardware using ASICs (application-specific integrated circuits)23.
* A router is a device that connects different networks and routes packets based on IP addresses at layer 3.
It does not provide access ports to endpoints, but rather interfaces to other networks. A router makes forwarding decisions in software, which is slower and less scalable than a Layer 3 switch23.
* A wireless LAN controller is a device that manages and configures wireless access points (WAPs) in a wireless network. It operates at the data link layer (layer 2) and does not provide routing functions. It also does not provide access ports to endpoints, but rather wireless connections4.
* Therefore, the best device for the network administrator to purchase is B. A Layer 3 switch, as it provides access ports to endpoints and has the ability to route between networks.
References:
* Intrusion Prevention Systems - N10-008 CompTIA Network+ : 2.5
* Interface Configurations - N10-008 CompTIA Network+ : 2.3
* Quiz: CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Post-Assessment Quiz
* Wireless LAN Controllers - N10-008 CompTIA Network+ : 2.4