What does NIC stand for in networking?

The term NIC stands for Network Interface Card. A Network Interface Card is a crucial component in computers and networking devices that allows them to connect to a network. It serves as an interface between a computer and the network, enabling the transmission and reception of data.

NICs can be found in various forms, such as wired Ethernet cards, which connect through cable networks, or wireless cards, which allow for connections to Wi-Fi networks. Each NIC has a unique MAC (Media Access Control) address that helps identify the device on the network, facilitating communication and data transfer.

Understanding the role of a Network Interface Card is fundamental in the study of networking, as it directly impacts the connection capability and performance of devices within a network. The other options represent terms that do not accurately describe the function or definition of a NIC in the context of networking.