In a C2 network, what are 'nodes' and what are 'communications'?

• A. Nodes are command centers, units, or devices; communications are the networks and channels that connect them.
• B. Nodes are networks; communications are data packets.
• C. Nodes are soldiers; communications are training manuals.
• D. Nodes are frequencies; communications are weather reports.

Answer: (B)

The key idea is that a C2 network is made up of interconnected networks that exchange information. Here, a node is a network—think of each network segment or networked element (command post network, unit network, or service network) that can originate, forward, and receive information. Communications are the actual information moving across those links, typically represented as data packets that carry content such as orders, status updates, and requests, along with addressing and timing data.

So the focus is on information flow between networks: discrete data packets move from one network node to another to enable command and control. This framing helps distinguish what is being transmitted (the data packets) from where it’s transmitted (the networks themselves).