NETWORKING — Roles on a client–server network On a computer network, what do we call a machine or application that requests services or files from another machine (the server)?

Introduction / Context:
Most business networks and internet applications follow the client–server model. Knowing the roles clarifies who requests resources and who provides them, improving your understanding of web browsing, file sharing, and database access.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The device or software initiates a request for files or services.
• The counterpart providing the resource is a server.
• Basic network components like routers and switches perform different roles.

Concept / Approach:
A client sends requests (for example, HTTP GET to a web server, SMB request to a file server) and receives responses. The server is the responder that hosts the data or service. The same hardware can act as both client and server in different contexts, but the roles are defined per interaction.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Identify action: requesting files or services.Map action to networking role → “client.”Confirm that alternatives (router, switch) do infrastructure forwarding, not client requests.

Verification / Alternative check:
Web browsers (clients) contact web servers using URLs; e-mail clients contact mail servers via SMTP/IMAP; file clients access file servers via SMB/NFS.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Host — generic word for any networked device; not specific to the requesting role.Router — forwards packets between networks; does not request end-user files.Web server — provides content; it is the provider, not the requester.Switch — forwards frames within a LAN at Layer 2.

Common Pitfalls:
Assuming a “host” always equals a “client.” A host can be a client, server, or both depending on the application.

Final Answer:
A client