What is the main function of a router in a network?

A router is fundamentally designed to connect multiple networks and facilitate communication between them. This is accomplished by directing data packets to their appropriate destinations across the networks it connects. Routers use protocols to determine the most efficient paths for data to travel, allowing different networks to interconnect and exchange information seamlessly.

In the context of a network, the ability to route traffic between different network segments means that routers play a crucial role in enabling the Internet as we know it, linking various local networks to form a larger, interconnected system. This function is essential for both local area networks (LANs) and wide area networks (WANs), as it ensures that devices across different networks can communicate effectively.

While other functions such as storing data, controlling access, or providing wireless access are vital roles played by different types of devices (such as servers, firewalls, or wireless access points), they do not represent the primary function of a router. The router's main purpose is its capacity to connect and manage the flow of data between diverse network environments.