In video conferencing, what is a "codec"?

The correct response identifies a codec as a program or device that compresses and decompresses digital media files, which is fundamental for efficient processing and transmission of video and audio in video conferencing. In video conferencing, data needs to be sent over the internet in a manageable way. High-quality video and audio files can be quite large and may not transmit effectively over standard internet connections. A codec reduces the size of this data by compressing it, making transmission possible without sacrificing too much quality. Upon receiving the data, a codec decompresses it, allowing the original audio and video to be played back accurately for the participants in the conference.

While other options pertain to elements of video conferencing, they do not accurately define a codec. For instance, the first option describes physical equipment rather than addressing the function of data processing. The third option focuses on screen sharing software, which, while relevant in a conferencing context, does not cover the role of codecs specifically. Lastly, the fourth option refers to network protocols, which are also important for the functioning of video communication but do not encapsulate the critical role that codecs play in media file management. Therefore, option B correctly highlights the codec's function as essential for the transmission and quality of audio and video in conferencing applications.