Which statement accurately describes a bridge?

A bridge connects multiple networks by operating at Layer 2 of the OSI model, which is the Data Link layer. This allows it to filter traffic based on MAC addresses, helping to manage and direct data more efficiently between different network segments. This filtration capability helps reduce unnecessary traffic on the network, as the bridge can determine whether a data packet should be forwarded to another segment or not, based on the destination MAC address.

By connecting different segments and filtering traffic, a bridge enhances network performance, reduces collisions, and can improve the overall efficiency of data transmission. Since it operates at Layer 2, the bridge is also able to create separate collision domains for each network segment, which further aids in reducing network congestion.

Other options highlight characteristics that do not accurately reflect the core function of a bridge in a networking context. For instance, while a bridge does create smaller collision domains, it primarily serves to connect networks and filter traffic. Thus, option B correctly encapsulates the essential role of a bridge in managing network traffic.