What is the primary purpose of using a router in a network?

Using a router in a network primarily serves the purpose of connecting different networks. Routers function as a traffic management system, directing data packets between networks, such as local area networks (LANs) and wide area networks (WANs). When devices on one network need to communicate with devices on another network, routers determine the best path for data to travel, facilitating efficient communication and data exchange.

This functionality is essential for internet connectivity, as routers connect a home or office network to the internet, allowing multiple devices to share a single internet connection while also ensuring security through features like firewalls and network address translation (NAT). This capability to interconnect various types of networks, both public and private, highlights the router's role as a crucial component of modern networking infrastructure.