Node definition
Node is any networked computer or device that delivers, receives, or redistributes data. A network consists of two types of nodes. The first ones are endpoints that send and receive data. The second ones are redistribution points that send that to its final destination. Most network devices, like laptops, printers, tablets, and file servers, are data endpoints. Redistribution points like routers, modems, wireless access points, and switches route data to an endpoint, the next router on the network, or the Internet. Network nodes have two addresses. The network router uses each device's MAC address to identify it. The router assigns an IP address to route network traffic to the relevant node.
Types of network nodes:
- Computer network nodes. Nodes in a local area network (LAN) or wide area network (WAN) may be personal computers or other data termination equipment (DTE) and data communication equipment (DCE). Modems, routers, servers, and workstations are such examples. When offline, these nodes lose their MAC addresses and function.
- Internet network nodes. In computer networks, the host computers are the actual “nodes“ of the network. While IP addresses make it possible to identify each node in a network, some data link devices, such as wireless LAN (WLAN) access points, may not come with their own IP address.
- Data communication nodes. Data communication technologies include routers, switches, hubs, modems, and bridges. Signal conversion, coding, and line clocks are the main functions of these nodes between data transmission circuits and data terminal nodes (DTE).
- Telephone network nodes. Telephone nodes can be private or public phones or computers that deliver intelligent network services. Cellular nodes have base station controllers. Multi-base station control is their main purpose.
- Cable TV system nodes. Cable television (CATV) nodes are usually fiber optic. Every fiber-optic node signifies the number of residences or businesses a fiber-optic receiver may serve.
- LANs and WANs. Every node in a local area network (LAN) or wide area network (WAN) has what's called a Network Interface Card, or MAC, address. Computers, wireless LAN access points, modems, and other devices are all examples of network devices.
- Distributed nodes. Nodes in a distributed network are referred to as distributed nodes. They are utilized to keep the network transparent and can either be physical or virtual nodes.
