Why is a Distributed Switch (VDS) used in networking?

A Distributed Switch (VDS) is primarily used in networking to manage networking across multiple hosts with a central interface. This centralized management capability allows network administrators to configure, monitor, and manage networking settings for all virtual machines (VMs) connected to the switch, regardless of the host they reside on.

With a VDS, all the networking configurations and policies can be maintained in one location, making it easier to enact consistent settings across all ESXi hosts in a cluster. This is particularly advantageous in large environments, where ensuring uniformity and reducing complexity in network management can greatly enhance efficiency and reduce human error.

In contrast, other options do not accurately capture the primary purpose of a VDS. While network performance monitoring may be a feature of VDS, it is not its exclusive purpose. Similarly, creating isolated network segments for security relates more to virtual networking configurations in general rather than the distinctive centralized management VDS provides. Lastly, storage management is not a function of a VDS, as it focuses on networking rather than storage resources. Thus, the choice that highlights the ability of a VDS to manage networking across multiple hosts with a central interface is the most accurate representation of its role in networking.