A ________ is a powerful computer that can operate at very high speeds and can support hundreds or even thousands of users at the same time over a network.

Introduction / Context:
Different categories of computers are designed for different scales of work. While microcomputers such as personal computers serve one user at a time, larger systems can serve many users simultaneously. This question asks which category of computer is designed to operate at high speeds and support hundreds or even thousands of users over terminals or networks. Knowing this classification helps distinguish between mainframes, supercomputers and smaller systems.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The computer operates at high speeds.
• It can support hundreds of users at the same time.
• Users typically connect over networks or terminals.
• Options include micro, mainframe, super and mini computers.

Concept / Approach:
Mainframe computers are large, powerful systems used primarily in organisations such as banks, airlines and government departments. They are designed to handle massive input output operations and support many simultaneous users and transactions. While supercomputers may have even higher raw processing power, they are optimised for numerical simulations and complex computations rather than serving many concurrent users. Microcomputers and mini computers serve fewer users and have lower capacity. Therefore, the category matching high speed operation with support for hundreds of users is mainframe computer.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
General computer classification charts describe mainframe computers as high capacity systems that can support hundreds or thousands of users with centralised processing. Examples include IBM zSeries mainframes used for enterprise resource planning and large databases. Supercomputers, on the other hand, are described as the fastest computers used for complex computations like weather modelling and scientific simulations. While they are powerful, they are not typically used for running everyday transaction workloads for many users. Mini computers historically occupied a middle ground but supported fewer users than mainframes. These descriptions confirm that mainframe is the best fit.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Micro computer: Includes desktops and laptops designed for single users or small environments, not hundreds of users simultaneously.
• Super computer: Optimised for heavy numerical calculations rather than serving large numbers of concurrent users in business applications.
• Mini computer: Historically served more users than a microcomputer but fewer than a mainframe; less powerful and less scalable.
• Embedded computer: A specialised system built into devices like washing machines or cars; not meant to support many external users.

Common Pitfalls:
Students sometimes choose supercomputer whenever they see high speed mentioned, ignoring the part about supporting many users. It is crucial to read the full question: supercomputers are indeed very fast but are typically dedicated to single large tasks. Mainframes, by contrast, are built to manage thousands of small tasks from many users at once. As a memory aid, associate mainframe with main office or main bank system, where many employees log in to the same central machine.

Final Answer:
A computer that can operate at high speeds and support hundreds of users is a Mainframe computer.