What term describes a central computer used to send and receive data from computers on a network?

The term that describes a central computer used to send and receive data from computers on a network is "server." A server acts as a powerful resource that stores, manages, and provides data to other computers, often referred to as clients, over a network. It processes requests from clients and responds by delivering the appropriate data or resources, making it a fundamental component of network architecture.

The role of a server is crucial in various applications, including hosting websites, managing databases, and providing connections for services in a business setting. It is designed to handle multiple requests from many clients simultaneously, ensuring efficient data transfer and resource allocation across the network. This centralized management helps streamline processes and improve overall productivity in a networked environment.