Common Network Components: Workstations, Servers, Hosts
In the realm of computer networks, three pivotal components serve distinct purposes: workstations, servers, and hosts.
- Workstations are
high-performance computers designed for daily tasks. For example, a graphic
designer's powerful desktop computer or a programmer's laptop can both be
considered workstations.
- These machines
often boast multiple central processing units (CPUs) and share their resources,
such as processing power and storage, with other users on the network when
needed.
- Servers earn
their name by being at the service of the network. They run specialized
software to fulfill specific network functions. For instance, a file server
stores and distributes files across the network, while a mail server handles
email communications.
- Examples of
dedicated servers include a print server managing printers, a web server
hosting websites, and an application server running network applications.
- In TCP/IP
terminology, hosts encompass various network devices with IP addresses. This
includes workstations, servers, and other networked devices like printers and
routers.
- A typical example
of a host is a laptop connected to a network, accessing resources from a server
or communicating with other devices using its IP address.
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