What is the primary function of a repeater in a network?

The primary function of a repeater in a network is to amplify and regenerate signals. As networks transmit data over distances, especially in wired or wireless communications, the signal may weaken or degrade due to various factors such as distance, interference, or physical obstacles. A repeater receives the incoming signal, amplifies it to restore its strength, and then retransmits it. This ensures that the data can travel longer distances without losing integrity, which is particularly important in large networks or installations where the signal must traverse considerable distances.

While the other options touch on aspects of network functionality, they do not accurately describe the role of a repeater. For instance, creating new data packets pertains to routers or switches, filtering out unwanted data typically relates to firewalls or network filters, and managing data traffic is a function associated with network switches or routers that handle data packet routing and congestion management.