What is the role of a network interface card (NIC)?

A network interface card (NIC) serves as a critical component that enables a computer to connect to a network. It provides the necessary hardware interface for a device to communicate over the network, whether that be a wired connection through Ethernet or a wireless connection via Wi-Fi. The NIC translates the data the computer generates into a format that can be sent over the network, handling the specifics of networking protocols so that the computer can send and receive data efficiently.

The other options, while related to networking, describe different functions or devices that do not directly encompass the primary role of a NIC. For instance, firewalls are dedicated to controlling traffic and protecting networks from unauthorized access and attacks, whereas a NIC is focused solely on the physical connection between a computer and a network. Similarly, while some NICs may enhance wireless communication if they are designed for that purpose, this is not their defining role. Also, network traffic management is typically handled by network switches or routers, which guide packets between devices rather than by the NIC itself. Overall, the NIC's fundamental purpose is to act as the bridge connecting a computer to the broader network infrastructure.