Common Network Components: Workstations, Servers, Hosts

In the realm of computer networks, three pivotal components serve distinct purposes: workstations, servers, and hosts.

 1. Workstations:

   - 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.

 2. Servers:

   - 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.

 3. Hosts:

   - 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.

 Understanding these network components and their roles is crucial for grasping network architecture and how devices interact to enable seamless communication and resource sharing within a network."