Which type of device connects computers together in an Ethernet Local Area Network (LAN)?

The correct answer is a switch, as it plays a crucial role in connecting multiple devices within an Ethernet Local Area Network (LAN). Switches are designed to receive data packets from one device and forward them only to the destination device identified by the packet's address. This process helps in efficiently managing data traffic within the network by reducing collisions and improving overall performance since data is directed specifically to the correct device rather than being broadcasted to all connected devices.

In contrast, while routers are also important in network connectivity, they primarily connect different networks and route data between them rather than within a single LAN. Bridges function similarly to switches but operate at a different layer of the OSI model and are typically used to connect and filter traffic between two or more network segments at a simpler level. Modems are designed to convert digital data to analog signals for transmission over telephone lines or vice versa, serving a different purpose in connecting a network to the Internet rather than directly linking devices within a LAN. Thus, among the options provided, a switch is specifically designed to efficiently manage connections within an Ethernet LAN.