Which component allows a computer to request resources from a network?

The correct answer is client software, which is designed specifically to allow a computer to access and utilize resources from a network. When a device acts as a client, it makes requests for resources such as files, application services, or printers from a server or another device on the network.

Client software operates within the user's device and typically includes applications like web browsers, email clients, or file-sharing software that communicate over the network to retrieve data or services. This enables the individual computer to function effectively within a larger networked environment.

In contrast, a network operating system is responsible for managing network resources and ensuring various network functionalities but does not directly allow a single computer to request resources. A file server primarily stores and manages files, providing them to clients upon request but does not itself handle the client-side functionalities. Backup software is utilized for data protection and recovery rather than for actively requesting and using resources on a network. Thus, client software is essential for a device to interact with and request resources from other networked devices.