Management Information System (MIS) Practice Exam

What is any computer on a network that provides services to other users called?

1. Microcomputer

2. Mainframe

3. Server

4. Workstation

The correct answer is: Server

In a networked environment, a computer that provides services, resources, or data to other computers or clients is known as a server. Servers are designed to manage network resources efficiently and can deliver a variety of services, including file storage, database management, web services, and cloud computing resources. Servers typically have enhanced hardware and software capabilities compared to standard personal computers, allowing them to handle multiple requests from numerous clients simultaneously. This is crucial for maintaining a smooth operation in environments that require shared resources, such as businesses or organizations. The other options, while they represent types of computers, do not fit the definition of providing services to other users in a network context. A microcomputer is essentially a personal computer used by an individual; a mainframe is a powerful computer used for large-scale computing and processing tasks, often in enterprise settings, but it is not specifically meant to serve other network users in the same way as a server; a workstation refers to a high-performance personal computer designed for technical or scientific applications, but again, it does not serve other users like a server does.