Answer

A repeater is a Physical-layer networking device that receives a weakened or distorted signal, regenerates it, and retransmits it.

Purpose

Signals become weaker as they travel over long distances due to attenuation. A repeater restores the signal so the network can cover a greater physical distance.

Key point

A repeater does not make routing decisions or inspect IP/MAC addresses. Its primary function is signal regeneration at the Physical layer.

Exam-ready: A repeater regenerates and retransmits signals to extend the transmission distance of a network.