ADSL Modem – This device translates the high frequency broadband signals carried on your telephone line into data signals your computer can understand.
Cable Modem – This device translates the broadband signals carried over the cable TV network into data signals your computer can understand.
Crossover cable – A special Ethernet cable used for networking two computers without the use of a hub.
DHCP (Dynamic host configuration Protocol) – This provides a simplified means of automatically getting an IP address and connecting to a network.
Ethernet – International standard technology (including specifically designed cards and cables) used to connect computers to a network. Ethernet cables are more effective than USB offering faster downloads and greater reliability.
Hub – A piece of hardware that contains a number of ports used to connect computers to a network. Usually equipped with a number of Ethernet sockets, hubs provide a conduit for packets of data sent from machines on the network.
Internet Protocol (IP address) – A string of numbers assigned to each PC on a network, these allow every computer on the Internet to be identified uniquely.
LAN (local area network) – A group of computers that are connected together, typically in the same office or building, enabling them to share resources such as the Internet or printers.
Mac address (Media access control address) – A series of letters and numbers used to identify network devices such as network interface cards.
Network – A group of computers and devices that are connected to each another and can communicate.
Network Interface card – A type of PC adapter card that allows computers to connect to other computers and network devices. They can operate at 10 Mbps (Ethernet) or 100 Mbps (Fast Ethernet).
Router – A device that connects together all the computers in a network to a broadband modem sending data around and allowing them to use the Internet. Home networking routers can also act as firewalls or gateways.
Switch – A type of hub that transmits information to the correct destination on the network. You need a switch with at least one port for each computer., It is similar to a hub but provides a more efficient use of bandwidth.
Wi-Fi (Wireless-Fidelity) – The term refers to wireless local networks that can enable users to access the Internet without the need for cables. Access points for Wi-Fi or ‘hotspots’ are increasingly available in public places around the world.
Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) – A common way of securing wireless networks using encryption techniques.
