Node
≡Description
A node is any active electronic device that is connected to a network and can send, receive, or forward information. In the context of networking, nodes can be computers, printers, servers, routers, switches, or any other device that participates in data communication. Each node has a unique address that allows its identification within the network, thus facilitating the transmission of information between different devices. Nodes can operate at different layers of the OSI model, from the physical layer to the application layer, and can be classified as end nodes, which are the devices that generate or consume data, or intermediate nodes, which help direct data traffic through the network. The interconnection of nodes is fundamental for the creation of complex networks, such as local area networks (LAN) and wide area networks (WAN), and their correct operation is essential for the efficiency and security of network communication.