In a computer network, the term “node” refers to which of the following types of devices or functions?

Introduction / Context:
Computer networks consist of many interconnected devices that send, receive, and forward data. The general term used to describe any active device that participates in a network is “node”. Understanding what a node is helps you interpret diagrams and explanations in networking courses and exams. This question asks you which roles in a network are considered nodes.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The context is a computer network.
• The term under discussion is node.
• Options include a device that terminates data, a device that originates data, a device that routes data, and all of the mentioned.
• We assume a network may contain computers, routers, switches, and other devices that handle data.

Concept / Approach:
In networking, a node is any device that can send, receive, or forward information on a network. This includes endpoint devices such as computers, servers, and printers, which originate or terminate data. It also includes intermediate devices such as routers and some switches, which route or forward data between network segments. Because the definition of node covers all devices that participate in communication, each of the roles listed in the options is that of a node. Therefore, the correct answer is “All of the mentioned”.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall the formal definition of a node. A node is any active device connected to a network that can send, receive, or forward data. Step 2: Examine devices that terminate data. Computers and printers that receive data and act on it are endpoint nodes. Step 3: Examine devices that originate data. Any computer or server that sends data onto the network is also a node. Step 4: Examine devices that route data. Routers and some switches move data from one network segment to another and are also nodes. Step 5: Conclude that all of the listed roles fit the definition of a node.

Verification / Alternative check:
Networking textbooks and standards documents use node as an umbrella term that covers both hosts and intermediate devices. For example, in packet switched networks, every device that has a network address and participates in forwarding packets is considered a node. Examples include routers, computers, servers, and networked printers. The definition does not restrict the term to only originating devices or only routing devices. This broad usage confirms that all three described roles belong to nodes, making the combined option correct.

Why Other Options Are Incomplete:
Option A (The computer that terminates the data): A terminating computer is a node, but this option ignores originating and routing devices. Option B (The computer that originates the data): A source computer is also a node, but limiting the definition to originators is incorrect. Option C (The computer that routes the data): Routers are nodes too, but the term node is not limited to routers.

Common Pitfalls:
Some learners confuse the term node with more specific roles such as host or router and think that nodes are only end user computers or only routers. Exam questions often test whether you understand that node is a general term. To avoid mistakes, remember that any device that actively participates in a network by sending, receiving, or forwarding data is a node, regardless of whether it is at the edge or in the middle of the network.

Final Answer:
In a computer network, a node can originate, route, or terminate data, so the correct choice is All of the mentioned devices and roles.