What does a hub do with packets in a network?

A hub operates at the physical layer of the OSI model and is responsible for connecting multiple devices within a network. Its primary function is to receive data packets from one connected device and then broadcast those packets to all other connected devices. This means that each device connected to the hub will receive all packets sent through it, regardless of which specific device the packet is intended for.

This method of operation, referred to as broadcasting, means that while a hub allows for communication between devices, it does not discriminate between destinations. This lack of intelligence in packet forwarding can lead to increased traffic on the network, as all devices will process every packet, creating potential inefficiencies. Unlike switches, which intelligently direct packets to specific ports based on MAC addresses, a hub's lack of filtering capabilities makes it a less efficient choice for network segmentation or management.

In summary, the correct understanding of how a hub functions revolves around its ability to broadcast packets to every single port, ensuring that all connected devices receive the same information simultaneously.