The invention relates to an interface component for use in a vehicle, which provides a link to a communication network, for example the internet, for a vehicle and which has a watchdog function for the components linked therewith in the vehicle. A processor of the interface component performs at certain intervals a functional test of the connected components and emits a function signal in accordance with said functional test. If at least one component does not function properly, the processor initiates a reboot of the respective component, for example by switching a power switch.