– Any nonreducible textual element in data that is being parsed. For example, the use in a program of a variable name, a reserved word, or an operator. Storing tokens as short codes shortens program files and speeds execution.
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– For networking, a unique structure or message that circulates continuously among the nodes of a token ring and describes the current state of the network. Before any node can send a message on the network, it must first wait to control the token.
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