What is the purpose of network segmentation?

The correct choice highlights that the purpose of network segmentation is to divide a computer network into smaller parts, which significantly enhances both security and performance. By creating separate segments, you can control traffic more effectively, limit the spread of threats, and reduce congestion. This means if a particular segment faces a security breach or performance degradation, it can be isolated from the rest of the network, thereby protecting other segments from potential vulnerabilities and keeping overall network performance stable.

Segmentation also allows for the enforcement of specific security policies tailored to each segment, further strengthening the network's defenses. This practice not only boosts security but also optimizes performance by reducing competition for bandwidth among devices that do not necessarily need to communicate with each other.

Other options present different concepts. Increasing network traffic would typically lead to performance issues rather than improvements, while providing equal access contradicts the idea of controlled access provided by segmentation. Lastly, consolidating all network devices into a single unit can create a single point of failure and does not take advantage of the benefits brought by separation and control.