Which statement best describes a networking router?

The statement that best describes a networking router is that it routes data packets based on network addressing.

Routers play a critical role in networking by directing data traffic between different networks. They use the destination IP address contained in data packets to determine the best path for the packet to take to reach its end destination, which may be on a different network. This process involves analyzing the packet's header, making routing decisions based on the network topology, and utilizing routing protocols to maintain an accurate representation of route availability and performance.

This function is essential in enabling communication between devices on separate networks, such as a home network connecting to the internet or multiple corporate networks interfacing with each other. In contrast, the other options do not accurately capture the primary function of a router and focus on different aspects or devices within networking.