在电信网络中，一个节点(英语：node，拉丁语：nodus）是一个连接点，表示一个再分发点（redistribution point）或一个通信端点（一些终端设备）。节点的定义依赖于所提及的网络和协议层。一个物理网络节点是一个连接到网络的有源电子设备，能够通过通信信道发送、接收或转发信息。。因此，无源分发点（如配线架或接插板）不是节点。

在网络理论或图论中，术语节点表示网络拓扑中，线相交或分支的点。

In communication networks, a node (Latin nodus, ‘knot’) is either a connection point, a redistribution point, or a communication endpoint (e.g. data terminal equipment). The definition of a node depends on the network and protocol layer referred to. A physical network node is an active electronic device that is attached to a network, and is capable of creating, receiving, or transmitting information over a communications channel. A passive distribution point such as a distribution frame or patch panel is consequently not a node.