What is a router primarily used for?

A router is primarily used to forward data across multiple networks, making it essential for communication between different segments of a network or between various networks entirely. This capability allows routers to determine the best path for data packets to travel from their source to their destination, which is crucial for efficient data transfer on the internet and for connecting local networks to wide area networks (WANs).

Routers perform essential functions such as packet switching, traffic management, and providing additional features like network security and management. When data is sent across the internet, it travels through multiple routers, each making decisions about the best route to take based on the current state of the networks they connect.

In contrast, the other choices describe different networking devices or functionalities. For instance, connecting devices within a single network typically falls under the functions of a switch or hub. Assigning IP addresses is typically the role of a DHCP server, and data encryption is generally handled by security protocols rather than by a router itself. Each of these plays a distinct role in networking, highlighting the specific purpose and functionality of a router in enabling communication across multiple networks.