Which type of computer in a network manages resources and serves information to clients?

The correct answer, a server, is vital in a network environment because it is specifically designed to manage resources and provide various services to client devices. A server handles requests from clients, which could include data storage, file sharing, application hosting, or even web services. Its primary role is to ensure that clients can access the information and resources they need efficiently.

In contrast, a node refers to any device connected to a network, which can include both servers and clients, but does not inherently signify a resource manager. A client is a device or application that consumes resources or services provided by a server, meaning it relies on the server for its operations. A switch, meanwhile, is a networking device that connects multiple devices on a local area network (LAN), facilitating communication but not managing resources or serving information like a server does.

Thus, servers play a distinct and critical role in resource management and information delivery in a network, making them essential for the operation of client-server architectures.