In a wireless LAN, which device acts as the direct interface between the wired network and the wireless network?

The access point serves as the direct interface between the wired network and the wireless network in a wireless LAN. This device allows wireless devices to connect to a wired network, facilitating communication and data transfer between these two different network types.

An access point functions as a bridge, connecting wireless clients (like laptops or smartphones) to the wired infrastructure, enabling devices on the wireless network to access resources and services present in the wired network, such as file servers or the internet. Access points can extend the range of the wireless network and support multiple connections simultaneously, which is essential in environments where many devices require network access.

In contrast, a router functions primarily to route traffic between different networks and manage IP addresses, while a modem provides a connection to the internet by modulating and demodulating signals. A network switch connects devices within a wired network but does not provide wireless connectivity or interface with wireless devices. Thus, the unique role of the access point as the bridge between wired and wireless networks makes it the correct answer in this context.