How is a byte defined?

A byte is defined as a group of 8 bits. In computer science, a bit is the smallest unit of data and can have a value of either 0 or 1. When bits are grouped together, they can represent more complex information. The standard size for a byte has been established as 8 bits, which allows for 256 different combinations (from 00000000 to 11111111 in binary). This makes a byte capable of representing a wide range of values, including characters in text encoding systems, small integers, and more.

The significance of a byte extends into various computing aspects; for instance, it's the basic addressable element in many computer architectures and serves as the foundational block for data storage, encoding, and transmission. Understanding that a byte consists of 8 bits is crucial for grasping how computers process and store data efficiently.