host

A computer that is attached to a communication subnetwork or internetwork and can use services provided by the network to exchange data with other attached systems. (See: end system. Compare: server.)

A networked computer that does not forward IP packets that are not addressed to the computer itself. (Compare: router.)

Derivation: As viewed by its users, a host "entertains" them, providing Application-Layer services or access to other computers attached to the network. However, even though some traditional peripheral service devices, such as printers, can now be

independently connected to networks, they are not usually called hosts.