What is the role of a router in a network?

The role of a router in a network is primarily to connect different networks and route traffic between them. Routers are essential devices that operate at the network layer of the OSI model. They facilitate communication between multiple networks, directing data packets from their source to the correct destination based on their IP addresses.

When a data packet arrives at the router, it examines the packet's header, checks the destination IP address, and uses routing tables to make informed decisions regarding the path that should be taken. The router can connect a variety of network types, including local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and even different protocols. This capability allows routers to manage traffic efficiently, ensuring that data packets navigate the most effective routes across interconnected networks.

In contrast, other options highlight different network functions. Providing Wi-Fi access pertains to access points or wireless routers, which do not perform the routing functions traditionally associated with routers. Managing local data storage is a function typically handled by servers or dedicated file storage systems, rather than a router. Serving as a firewall involves protecting the network from unauthorized access, which may be a feature of some routers but is not the primary purpose of a router itself. Thus, the router's main role lies in its ability to inter