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.
Contributor(s): Jason Alvich, Hendrik Brink, and Kevin Williams
This was last updated in August 2006
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