What type of computer typically executes small shell scripts?

Local computers are the type of computers that typically execute small shell scripts. Shell scripts are designed to automate tasks and streamline workflows on individual machines. They are typically run in a local environment where the user has direct access to the operating system's shell, allowing for the execution of commands and scripts that can manipulate files, run programs, or perform other system-level tasks.

Local computers, including personal desktops and laptops, are equipped with the necessary operating systems (such as Linux, macOS, or Windows) that support shell environments. This local execution is important for development, testing, or configuration tasks that require immediate access to the file system and resources.

Supercomputers, while capable of executing scripts, are generally used for large-scale computations and parallel processing tasks rather than small shell scripts aimed at local user tasks. Cloud servers can also execute scripts, but they are typically used in a more distributed manner and require network access, which is not the primary use case for small shell scripts that are designed to run on personal machines. Network routers might have limited scripting capabilities, but they primarily handle routing and networking functions rather than executing comprehensive shell scripts in the same way a local computer would.