Which hardware component is responsible for directing data packets in a network?

The router is a critical hardware component in networking that is responsible for directing data packets between different networks. It operates by examining the destination address of data packets and determining the most efficient path for them to take to reach their destination. Routers use protocols to communicate with other routers, facilitating the correct routing of information across the internet or between local networks.

In contrast, a hub simply connects multiple devices within the same network without directing traffic intelligently. A switch operates similarly to a hub but is more advanced, as it can direct data to specific devices by learning the locations of devices on the network. A modem, on the other hand, serves as a translator between digital data from a computer and the analog signal used by telephone lines or cable systems for internet access. Each of these components plays a role in networking, but it is the router that specifically handles the essential task of directing data traffic between different networks, making it a vital part of ensuring effective communication across larger or interconnected networks.