What is the primary purpose of a network router?

The primary purpose of a network router is to direct data packets between networks based on IP addresses. Routers are critical devices in networking that manage the traffic of data packets, ensuring that they are sent to the appropriate destination across various networks. By reading the header information in each packet, which includes the destination IP address, a router can make decisions about the best route for that packet to take through the network.

This function is essential for enabling communication between devices on the same network or across different networks. Routers also handle the complexity of routing protocols, which determine the best paths for data exchange, and can segment broadcast domains, which improves network efficiency.

While providing wireless internet access is a function of many routers, it is not their primary purpose. Additionally, routers do not typically store data and applications; that is a function handled by servers or storage devices. Finally, while security features are often integrated into modern routers (such as firewalls and security protocols), their fundamental role is focused on the routing of data packets, not solely on network security.