Definition

network interface card (NIC)

A network interface card (NIC) is a computer circuit board or card that is installed in a computer so that it can be connected to a network. Personal computers and workstations on a local area network (LAN) typically contain a network interface card specifically designed for the LAN transmission technology, such as Ethernet or token ring. Network interface cards provide a dedicated, full-time connection to a network. Most home and portable computers connect to the Internet through as-needed dial-up connection. The modem provides the connection interface to the Internet service provider.

Related glossary terms: RS-232C, encoder, online, BOC (Bell operating company), Peltier effect, LEC (local exchange carrier), IT Survival Kit: Networking refreshers, downstream, Usenet, network configuration management (NCM)

Contributor(s): Jason Alvich, Hendrik Brink, and Kevin Williams

This was last updated in August 2006

Posted by: Margaret Rouse

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