What does the next() function do in Next.js?

Question

You are configuring a custom Middleware in Next.js. What is the purpose of using NextResponse.next() in this context?

```
import { NextResponse } from 'next/server';

export function middleware(request) {
  // Middleware logic...
  
  return NextResponse.next();
}
```

Accepted Answer

Pass the request to the next middleware or route.

Answer

Stop processing the request and return a response immediately.

Answer

Load additional data before rendering the page.

Answer

Redirect the user to a new page.

Question from the Next.js test