What is the fundamental distinction between a node and a host?

Answer 1

The fundamental distinction between a node and a host is that a node refers to any device that is connected to a network, while a host specifically refers to a device that is capable of hosting services or applications on a network.

A node can be any device that is connected to a network, such as a computer, printer, or smartphone. It can receive, send, or store data on the network but may not necessarily provide any services or applications.

On the other hand, a host is a specific type of node that not only connects to a network but also provides services or applications to other devices on the network. A host can be a computer, server, or any other device that is set up to provide services like web hosting, email servers, or file sharing. It acts as a central point for other nodes to access the resources or services it offers.

In summary, while all hosts are nodes, not all nodes are hosts. Nodes are general devices that connect to a network, while hosts are specific nodes that provide services or applications on the network.