A network interface is the point of interconnection between a computer and a private or public network. A network interface is generally a network interface card (NIC), but does not have to have a physical form. Instead, the network interface can be implemented in software.

What is a network interface used for?

A NIC allows a device to connect with other devices on a network. NICs are often used with Ethernet cables to physically connect different devices on a network. For instance, a server will have a NIC which allows it to connect to a router. You could connect your PC to a router using a NIC.

How does a network interface work?

A network interface card (NIC) is a hardware component, typically a circuit board or chip, which is installed on a computer so it can connect to a network. ... The NIC uses the OSI model to send signals at the physical layer, transmit data packets at the network layer and operate as an interface at the TCP/IP layer.