A NIC (network interface card) is the computer component that allows for communication over a computer network. A NIC is a hardware device that connects a computer to a network cable or a wireless access point. A NIC enables the computer to send and receive data packets over the network using protocols such as TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol). A NIC has a unique identifier called a MAC (media access control) address that distinguishes it from other devices on the network. Reference : The Official CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) Study Guide (FC0-U61), page 169.