Error Control refers to techniques used in communication and data storage to detect and correct errors that may occur during transmission or processing. These errors can arise from various sources, such as noise in the communication channel or hardware malfunctions. By implementing error control methods, systems can ensure that the information received is accurate and reliable. Common methods of error control include checksums, parity bits, and error-correcting codes. Checksums involve adding up data values to create a unique total, while parity bits add an extra bit to ensure even or odd counts of 1s. Error-correcting codes can identify and fix errors without needing retransmission, enhancing data integrity.