Both. Struts for suspension and tie rods for steering.
The consumable parts of the front suspension are the struts, CV shafts, tie rods (and ends) wheel bearings, and ball joints. Any of the parts can be replaced individually and typically wear out at different rates.
Shocks and struts are more for the ride not the alignment. Tie rods, ball joints and how the front end is adjusted are the alignment. Jack the front end of the car off the ground. Grab the wheel at the top and bottom and see if it wiggles. If it does, that is the ball joints. Grab the sides and do the same. That is the tie rods, idler arm, pitman arm or drag link on rear wheel drive. Tie rods or the steering rack on front wheel drive. Having someone wiggle the wheel while looking at the steering linkages should let you see which part is worn.
The problem is either worn suspension parts (e.g., tie rods, idler arm, ball joints) or worn shocks/struts.
This job depends on the vehicle type, quantity of tie-rods, and quoted labor and parts price. First, most vehicles have four front tie-rods; two outers, and two inners. Additionally there other vehicles which even have rear tie rods! Usually the front outer tie rods fail first, and the inners typically last the life of the vehicle. It is recommended to replace tie rods in pairs to keep both sides wear equal. Replacing a single outer tie rods may be .75 hours of labor. An OEM outer tie rod may cost upwards of 40$ at cash wholesale cost. Lastly, the vehicle will require an alignment after installing tie rods, so factor additional cost.
Loose, worn, broken tie rods, sway bar links, struts, ball joints,.......
the major difference is all of the moving parts in the front that turn the wheels. the back is usually just shocks or struts and springs, whereas the front has tie rods, control arms, ball joints, etc. that move with the steering wheel as well.
Inner tie rods are at each end of the steering rack, and outer tie rods attach inner tie rods to steering knuckles (what wheels attach to).
replacing tie rods will require a front end alignment. Remove cotter pin and nut than unscrew from drag link and replace
It could be worn struts, worn bushings, worn ball joints or tie rods. Just jack it up and find out which parts are loose.
To much positive or negative camber Toe out of spec Loose tie rods Bent struts
I had the same problem with my 92 voyager when I bought it. For me it turned out to be the upper spring plates on the front struts. Had them replaced and it's been quiet ever since. NOTE: You might have to do an alignment if this is you situation as well.
I've never had to replace tie rods, but I do know for sure that after it is done, you'll have to get your front end re-aligned.