Which of the following is a feature of synchronous communication?

Synchronous communication is characterized by the requirement of a timing mechanism that allows both the sender and receiver to be coordinated in real-time. This feature is crucial because it ensures that the data being communicated is sent and received in a consistent and orderly manner. In synchronous communication, a clock signal is often utilized to synchronize the data transmission, allowing devices to know when to send and when to expect data. This timing component is what differentiates synchronous communication from asynchronous communication, where there is no such real-time coordination, allowing for more flexible timing between sending and receiving.

The clock signal not only helps maintain the process of communication but also ensures that the data packets do not collide and are delivered in the right sequence, which is vital in applications requiring high integrity and reliability, such as video conferencing or online gaming. Understanding this concept is pivotal for anyone involved in information systems, as it has direct implications for network design and troubleshooting.