Jargon Buster A to D |E to P | Q to S | T to Z

Adapter

A device that adds network functionality to your PC.

Backbone

The part of a network that connects most of the systems and networks together, and handles the most data.

Bandwidth

The transmission capacity of a given device or network.

Bit

A binary digit.

Boot

To start a device and cause it to start executing instructions.

Bridge

A device that connects different networks.

Broadband

An always-on, fast Internet connection.

Browser

An application program that provides a way to look at and interact with all the information on the World Wide Web.

Buffer

A shared or assigned memory area that is used to support and coordinate different computing and networking activities so one isn't held up by the other.

Byte

A unit of data that is usually eight bits long

Daisy Chain

A method used to connect devices in a series, one after the other.

Database

A collection of data that is organized so that its contents can easily be accessed, managed, and updated.

DDNS

Dynamic Domain Name System - Allows the hosting of a website, FTP server, or e-mail server with a fixed domain

Default Gateway

A device that forwards Internet traffic from your local area network.

DHCP

Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol - A networking protocol that allows administrators to assign temporary IP addresses to network computers by leasing an IP address to a user for a limited amount of time, instead of assigning permanent IP addresses

DMZ

Demilitarized Zone - Removes the Router's firewall protection from one PC, allowing it to be “seen” from the Internet.

DNS

Domain Name Server - The IP address of your ISP's server, which translates the names of websites into IP addresses.

Domain

A specific name for a network of computers.

Download

To receive a file transmitted over a network.

DSL

Digital Subscriber Line - An always-on broadband connection over traditional phone lines.

DTIM

Delivery Traffic Indication Message - A message included in data packets that can increase wireless efficiency.

Dynamic IP Address

A temporary IP address assigned by a DHCP server.