What are frames in the context of network communication?

Frames in the context of network communication refer specifically to the packets transmitted over the network. In networking, a frame is a data packet that includes not only the payload of user data but also control information, such as source and destination addresses, error-checking data, and other relevant metadata that aids in the delivery and integrity of the data being transmitted.

This structure is critical because it allows the receiving device to understand how to process the content of the frame, directs the frame to the correct destination, and ensures that any potential errors in transmission can be detected and corrected. Frames are a key part of data link layer protocols, such as Ethernet, which define how data is packaged and addressed for communication over physical networks.

The other options, while related to areas of information technology, do not accurately describe frames in networking. Email protocols, for example, involve the transmission of messages and attachments but operate at different layers of networking. Data encryption methods are focused on securing data, and file storage formats pertain to how files are organized and stored on devices. Therefore, the characterization of frames as packets transmitted over the network encapsulates their purpose and functionality within the realm of network communication effectively.