The device that allows several computers to use your home network with just one Internet connection is called a ___.

The correct answer is a router. A router is a device that connects multiple computers and devices to a single Internet connection, allowing them to communicate with each other and access the Internet simultaneously. It does this by managing data traffic, ensuring that information is sent to the correct device efficiently while also providing network security features such as firewalls.

A hub, while it connects several devices within a network, does not route traffic or manage data effectively. It simply broadcasts incoming data to all ports, which can lead to network inefficiencies. A switch, on the other hand, operates at a more advanced level than a hub by directing data specifically to the intended devices within the local area network, but it does not connect directly to the Internet. An access point facilitates wireless connectivity for devices but does not manage routing of Internet data or allows multiple devices to share a connection through IP address assignment, which is the primary function of a router. Thus, for managing a home network and connecting multiple devices to the Internet, a router is the essential device.