What does the term 'node' refer to in networking?

In networking, the term "node" refers to any device connected to a network. This includes computers, printers, routers, switches, and any other device that can communicate over the network. Each node plays a role in data transmission between devices, contributing to the overall functionality of the network by either sending, receiving, or forwarding data.

Choosing this definition highlights the essence of networking, which is about interconnectivity among various devices. Every device that connects to the network qualifies as a node, even if it doesn’t actively send or receive data all the time; it is simply part of the network ecosystem. This term helps in understanding network topology and the distribution of devices within a network, making it fundamental in the study of networking.