What is the role of a router in a network?

The role of a router in a network primarily revolves around its ability to filter and forward data packets between different networks. Routers are responsible for determining the best path for data to travel from the source to the destination, enabling communication not just within a local area network (LAN) but also across wide area networks (WANs) and the internet. They analyze the destination IP address of incoming packets and utilize routing tables and protocols to make intelligent decisions about where to send these packets next.

This capability is fundamental for connecting various segments of a network, whether it’s linking different LANs, connecting to other routers, or interfacing with the internet. The process involves looking up the routes and ensuring that data is sent efficiently, helping optimize overall network performance.

In contrast, other options focus on different aspects that aren't primarily the function of a router. For instance, amplifying signals for long-distance communication is typically the role of repeaters or signal boosters rather than routers. Providing a connection between a network and the internet is a function performed by routers, but it doesn’t encompass the broader role of routing packets. Lastly, bandwidth allocation is generally managed by Quality of Service (QoS) settings within the router or other network devices, rather than being a direct function of