What device is connected to the console port for administrative tasks?

The device that is typically connected to the console port for administrative tasks is a router or switch. The console port provides a serial connection that enables network administrators to manage and configure the network devices directly. This is crucial for initial setup, troubleshooting, and modifying configuration settings, as the console port does not rely on a network connection to access the device.

Routers and switches are fundamental components of a network, and having direct administrative access through the console port allows technicians to address issues or changes without needing a user interface that requires network connectivity, which may not always be available, especially during troubleshooting scenarios.

In contrast, while firewalls can have console ports, they are not as universally connected for general administrative tasks as routers and switches are. Similarly, modems, hubs, and access points may serve different purposes within a network, but they do not typically provide the same level of direct administrative access through a dedicated console port as routers and switches do. Hence, the choice specifying routers or switches is the most accurate response to this question.