What common task does a router perform?

A router is primarily responsible for directing traffic between different networks. This means it determines the best path for data packets to travel from a source to a destination across interconnected networks. Routers use routing tables and protocols to make intelligent decisions about where to send data, ensuring efficient communication between devices on different networks, such as a home network and the internet or between corporate networks.

The function of directing traffic is crucial for network management and connectivity, as it ensures that information can be sent and received accurately and promptly. By analyzing the destination IP address of each packet, the router can route traffic accordingly, preventing congestion and optimizing data transmission.

While some routers may offer functionalities such as managing wireless connections or acting as switches, these are additional features rather than the primary role. The fundamental task of a router remains to connect multiple networks and facilitate communication between them, which is why directing traffic between different networks is the correct answer.