The mechanism that opens and closes the phone line to a phone. It is typically located at the top of the phone's base (and therefore beneath the phone's receiver) and is released by the act of removing the handset from the cradle, hence the term "off-hook." Host 1) A computer system that provides service features to other computers. Used in this context, any computer that acts as a server can be considered a host, whether on the Internet or a Local Area Network (LAN). 2) The provision of a computer to house a web server for one or several web sites.

Mechanical or electrical switch used to terminate a call. The handset usually depresses the hookswitch when it is returned to the cradle.

The device on which the telephone receiver hangs or rests when not in use.

see Switchhook