What is a key feature of vSphere distributed switches?

The feature that stands out for vSphere distributed switches is their ability to provide advanced networking capabilities specifically designed for larger environments. Distributed switches allow for centralized management of the network across multiple hosts, making it easier to configure and manage networking settings consistently across a large number of virtual machines and hosts.

This capability includes features such as:

• Quality of Service (QoS): Enabling bandwidth allocation per virtual machine or port group.

• Network I/O Control: This helps in prioritizing network traffic for critical applications.

• Private VLANs: Enhancing security and network segregation without requiring a full VLAN configuration.

Due to their advanced features and centralized management, distributed switches are particularly beneficial in environments with extensive virtual machine deployment, as they help manage complex networking needs efficiently without the overhead of configuration across individual hosts. This is a significant advantage in larger setups compared to standard switches.

The other options do not align with the capabilities and intended use of distributed switches; for instance, they are suitable for larger, rather than small, environments and fully support VLAN configurations, in contrast to what is stated in some other options. Additionally, physical switch configuration is typically not a requirement for the distributed switch functionality, as they operate within the virtual infrastructure itself.