What is the primary role of a WIC (WAN Interface Card)?

The primary role of a WAN Interface Card (WIC) is to connect the system or router to the wide area network (WAN) link service provider. This connection allows for data transfer over larger distances, facilitating communication between remote locations and the main network infrastructure. The WIC serves as an interface that enables the router to access various WAN technologies, such as frame relay, ISDN, or T1 lines, effectively expanding the network's reach beyond local area networks (LANs).

Connecting to a WAN service provider is critical for organizations that need to integrate different geographic locations, support remote offices, or provide internet access across various sites. As such, the WIC is essential for establishing these connections, making it a vital component in a network architecture designed for WAN connectivity.