Which piece of network equipment extends the cable range and allows connections to be made by increasing the signal strength?

A firewall is a security device that monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules. While it plays a crucial role in protecting networks from unauthorized access, it does not extend cable range or amplify signals, which is the primary function of a repeater.

A router connects different networks and directs data packets between them. It can facilitate communication across multiple devices but does not specifically amplify or extend the range of a single cable connection. Its primary role is to manage traffic within and between networks, not to boost signal strength.

A switch is a networking device that connects multiple devices within a local area network (LAN) and allows them to communicate with one another. While it can improve the efficiency of data transfers within a network, it does not amplify or extend signal range like a repeater does.