What is the primary function of a bridge in networking?

The primary function of a bridge in networking is to keep traffic separated on both sides and break up collision domains. A bridge operates at the data link layer of the OSI model, and its main purpose is to divide a larger network into smaller collision domains. By doing so, it allows for improved network performance because it reduces the chances of data collisions occurring when multiple devices attempt to send data simultaneously. Each segment connected by the bridge can manage its own traffic independently, which leads to more efficient use of bandwidth and a smoother flow of data.

Furthermore, the bridge forwards packets between the segments based on MAC addresses. This means it will learn and remember the addresses of devices on either side, allowing it to intelligently segment traffic and minimize the amount of unnecessary data being sent across the network. This intelligence helps in reducing congestion and optimizing the overall network performance.

The other options, while related to networking, do not accurately describe the primary role of a bridge. Aggregating internet connections or rerouting data packets involves different devices like routers or load balancers, and connecting disparate networks typically requires gateways or protocol converters to handle different networking protocols.