Which of the following are the main components of a computer network?

The main components of a computer network focus on the foundational elements necessary for establishing communication and data exchange between devices. The correct answer encompasses the essential building blocks of any network, which include:

• Computers: These are the devices that serve as endpoints in a network, running various applications and processes that require connectivity.

• Networking Hardware: This includes switches, routers, and hubs that facilitate the transfer of data between devices and manage traffic within the network.

• Network Protocols: Protocols are the set of rules that dictate how data is transmitted over the network. They ensure that devices can communicate effectively, regardless of their internal architecture or design.

• Transmission Media: This refers to the physical pathways through which data is transmitted. It can include wired components like Ethernet cables as well as wireless channels utilized for data transfer.

While the other options contain related elements that can be important in a broader IT context, they do not represent the primary components specifically required for the structure and function of a computer network itself. For example, operating systems and software applications (as mentioned in another option) are not foundational components of networking but rather tools that operate on the devices connected to a network. Similarly, network cables and wireless access points are