What is the primary function of a router in a computer network?
2024
What is the primary function of a router in a computer network?
- A.
To connect devices within the same network
- B.
To connect multiple networks together
- C.
To filter incoming traffic based on IP addresses
- D.
More than one of the above
- E.
None of the above
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Correct answer: B
A router's primary function is to connect multiple networks together by forwarding data packets between them based on IP addresses. It operates at the network layer (Layer 3) of the OSI model and uses routing tables to determine the best path for data transmission. Option A describes the function of a switch, which connects devices within the same network. Option C refers to traffic filtering, which is typically handled by firewalls or ACLs, not the main purpose of a router. Option D is incorrect because at least one option (B) correctly identifies the router's primary role. Option E is incorrect because the correct function is listed in option B.