Which device supports communication between subnets and across different networks by determining the next network point for packet forwarding?

Routers are essential devices in networking that facilitate communication between different subnets and networks by analyzing the information in data packets and determining the appropriate next hop or network point for those packets. They operate at the network layer of the OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) model, which allows them to route data based on IP addresses.

When a packet is received, the router examines the destination IP address and looks up routing tables to ascertain the best path for that packet. This capability makes routers vital for connecting distinct networks and managing traffic efficiently and effectively between them. They can connect a local area network (LAN) to a wide area network (WAN), enabling data exchange across various systems and locations.

In contrast, switches operate primarily within a local network and do not process packets beyond the local scope, making them unsuitable for inter-network communication. Bridges also function similarly to switches, connecting two or more network segments to make them act as a single network but do not determine paths between separate networks. Hubs, on the other hand, are basic networking devices that merely transmit packets to all connected devices without any intelligence or traffic management capabilities. Thus, routers are uniquely situated to facilitate inter-network communication and are the correct choice in this context.