A technician is searching through a storage locker and finds a router. What is the purpose of this device?

The purpose of a router, like the one found by the technician in the storage locker, is to connect networks and forward traffic to remote networks by using IP addressing information. A router is a networking device that forwards data packets between computer networks. It manages traffic between your local network (like your home or office network) and the internet, routing data to its destination based on IP addresses. Routers are essential for determining the best path for traffic to travel across multiple networks.

The other options refer to different devices or functions:

• A device that is an all-in-one security appliance with IDS/IPS functionality and stateful firewall services is typically a Unified Threat Management (UTM) appliance or a Next-Generation Firewall (NGFW). These devices provide comprehensive security features but are distinct from routers.
• A device placed between two or more networks that protects data and equipment from unauthorized access is a firewall. Firewalls monitor and control incoming and outgoing network traffic based on security rules.
• A device that uses radio waves to provide network access to wireless devices is a wireless access point. It creates a wireless local area network (WLAN), usually connecting to a router to provide internet access to nearby wireless devices.