Host
Definition
A host is any computer, server, or device connected to a network that provides resources, services, or data to other systems. In networking, a host may be a physical machine, virtual machine, or cloud instance that can send and receive information. Examples include web servers hosting websites, mail servers managing email, and client devices accessing applications.
Hosts are identified by unique IP addresses and may also use domain names for easier recognition. In business operations, hosts are fundamental for delivering online services, storing data, and enabling communication between users and systems. Without properly configured hosts, networks and applications cannot function effectively.
Advanced
Technically, a host operates at multiple layers of the OSI and TCP/IP models. Each host requires a network interface, an assigned IP address (IPv4 or IPv6), and often a hostname mapped through the Domain Name System (DNS). Servers as hosts may run specific services such as HTTP, FTP, or databases.
In virtualized or cloud environments, hosts can represent physical servers running multiple virtual machines. Containerized applications rely on host systems for CPU, memory, and networking resources. Security configurations, such as firewalls and access controls, ensure that hosts are protected from unauthorized access or attacks.
Why it matters
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Metrics
Issues
Example
An e-commerce company runs its website on cloud-based hosts. These hosts are configured for load balancing and redundancy, ensuring the site remains accessible during peak shopping periods while maintaining fast response times and secure transactions.