Which device supports communication between subnets and across different networks by determining the next network point for packet forwarding?

A router is the device that supports communication between subnets and across different networks by determining the next network point for packet forwarding. Its primary function is to analyze the destination IP address of packets and make intelligent decisions regarding which path the data should take to reach its final destination. Routers use routing tables and protocols to establish the most efficient route for data transmission, allowing for maximum efficiency in network traffic and facilitating the connection between distinct networks.

In contrast, switches operate at the data link layer and primarily manage local area network (LAN) traffic by connecting devices within the same network. They do not perform the same level of routing functionalities as routers do, as switches contain MAC address tables to forward packets within the same network segment.

Hubs are basic networking devices that operate at the physical layer. They have no intelligence to manage traffic or determine paths for packet forwarding, simply broadcasting incoming packets to all ports regardless of the intended recipient.

Bridges can connect two or more network segments and filter traffic based on MAC addresses, but they do not operate in the same manner as routers, which analyze IP addresses for inter-network communication. Bridges are useful for dividing collision domains within a LAN but do not facilitate the forwarding of packets across different networks like routers do.

Understanding these