Application
Also shortened to app. A synonym for software.
Architecture
Refers to the design of software, hardware, or how software and hardware work
together to perform tasks. The architecture of a software program maps out the
complete functionality of the application.
Authoring Tool
Software that allows users to create multimedia applications. Authors can
combine text, audio, and other elements to create a training manual, interactive
resume, or any number of other programs.
AUI
A name for the 15-pin D-type connector used to connect 10Base5 coaxial cable.
Backbone
A part of a network that links departmental LANs together. Backbones typically
use high-speed network designs such as 100BaseT or FDDI.
BNC
A name for the end of a 10Base2 Ethernet cable. BNC is often used as shorthand
to refer to 10Base2 networks.
CAD
Short for computer-aided design. CAD programs have replaced the drafting board
as mission control for industries in need of multifunctional modeling and design
systems.
Category 5
A name given to cabling rated to carry transmissions of 100 Mbps or faster.
Category 5 cabling is required for 100BaseT networks. While Category 3 (and 4)
wiring is acceptable for 10BaseT networks, it is generally worthwhile to install
Category 5 wiring now if there is any chance you will need the higher speeds in
the future.
Client/Server
This type of software enables your computer (the client) to communicate with a
centralized server. Client/server software is critical if a company wants all
employees to have access to information without loading that information onto
every computer in the office.
Ethernet
Ethernet is the most widely used LAN technology. Most businesses installing a
network today use Ethernet technology. Ethernet connects up to 1,024 nodes at 10
Mbps over twisted pair, coax and optical fiber. All stations share the total
bandwidth within the network segment.
Gigabit Ethernet (1000 Mbps)
The newest version of Ethernet, which supports data transfer rates of 1 Gigabit
(1,000 megabits) per second. Ideal only for large businesses using a MAN
(Metropolitan Area Network) or WAN (Wide Area Network).
GroupWare
Any software which allows users to share ideas, exchange information, or work on
the same project from different locations.
Hub
A type of hardware used in 10BaseT and 100BaseT networks that connects all the
cabling from computers and peripherals.
ISDN
(Integrated Services Digital Network) An international telecommunications
standard for transmitting voice, video and data over digital lines running at 64
Kbps (kilobits per second)
IPX
The protocol used by Novell NetWare to send data over a network.
LAN
(Local Area Network) A communications network that serves users within a confined geographical area
(usually means within the same office space).
License
A license is what you actually pay for when you buy software. You are not buying
the software but the license that gives you the right to use it on one computer
(though some licensing agreements vary depending on the situation).
MAN
(Metropolitan Area Network) A communications network that covers a geographic
area such as a city or suburb. See LAN and WAN.
MAU
Multi-station access unit. A type of hardware that connects cabling from
computers and peripherals in a Token Ring network. The term MAU is also
sometimes used to describe an Ethernet hub.
MiddleWare
Refers to programs that connect two separate applications. MiddleWare is often
used as the glue between a database and web-based application. Sometimes
referred to as plumbing.
Node
Each computer or peripheral in the network.
Protocol
Rules governing the transmitting and receiving of data.
RJ-45
The type of plug used to connect cabling used in 10BaseT networks. RJ-45 plugs
look like a standard modular phone jack, except they are a bit wider to
accommodate four twisted pairs of wires.
Router
Hardware that allows any network user to connect with outside modems, networks,
or other data sources. A router can be used to connect an entire network with a
branch office or an Internet access provider.
Shareware/Freeware
Programs that are available for free or on a trial basis. Many shareware
programs may not be suitable for the business environment, though some
applications, like FTP programs, are a safe bet.
Station
A generic name for a computer or a peripheral on a network.
Switches
Hardware used on (generally) high-speed networks to connect network segments
without causing collisions. Switches allow you to create large, flexible
networks without compromising data speeds.
System Requirements
A general term used to describe the capabilities a computer must have in order
to successfully run a particular program. Most system requirement information
includes the minimum needs for memory (hard drive and RAM) and processor speed,
what type of operating system the program can run on, and whether a CD-ROM drive
or Internet access is required.
T1, T2, T3
A T1 is a 1.544 Mbps point-to-point dedicated line provided by the telephone
companies. The monthly cost is typically based on distance. T1 lines are widely
used for private networks and high-speed links to and from Internet service
providers. A T1 line provides 24 64-Kbps voice or data channels. T2 provides
6.312 Mbps and 96 channels, and T3, 44.736 Mbps and 672 channels.
Transceiver
A small device used to connect a computer with a specific type of network
cabling. For example, a transceiver might connect an AUI (10Base5) port on a
printer to 10BaseT twisted pair cables. Transceiver comes from transmitter and
receiver.
Twisted pair (TP)
The abbreviation TP is often used to indicate 10BaseT connections, since this
type of network uses twisted pair cabling.
User Interface
Also shortened to UI. User interfaces are what you see when you use a program -
i.e. taskbars, pulldowns, scroll bars, etc.
WAN
(Wide Area Network) A communications network that covers a wide geographic area,
such as state or country. It requires the network facilities of common carriers.
