TAP is a virtual network device independently maintained in Linux.

Comprehensive and Detailed Explanation (HCIA–Cloud Computing aligned):

In Linux-based virtualization environments, a TAP device is a software-based virtual network interface that operates at Layer 2 of the OSI model.

TAP devices are independently maintained by the Linux kernel and are commonly used to connect virtual machines to virtual switches or bridges. They simulate physical Ethernet interfaces, allowing VMs to send and receive Ethernet frames.

This definition aligns with HCIA–Cloud Computing networking fundamentals, so the statement is TRUE.