Which device translates domain names into IP addresses?

The device that translates domain names into IP addresses is the Domain Name System (DNS). When you type a web address, such as www.example.com, into your browser, DNS is responsible for finding the corresponding IP address, which is necessary for loading the website. This translation process is critical because while humans find it easier to remember names, computers communicate using numerical IP addresses.

The DNS system works by querying a series of DNS servers to resolve the domain name into its correct IP address. Once the IP address is found, it allows the browser to establish a connection with the web server hosting the requested site, facilitating the transfer of data and content.

Other devices serve different functions in network management. For instance, DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) is used for automatically assigning IP addresses to devices on a network, whereas routers are responsible for directing traffic between networks. Firewalls provide security by controlling the incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules. However, none of these devices perform the specific role of translating domain names into IP addresses, which is why DNS is the correct answer.