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Frequently Used Terms/Definitions |
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Always On - commonly refers to a computer or LAN that is always connected to
the Internet - no dial-up is necessary. The type of connection and associated
external hardware provide a means for the client to simply turn on their
computer and once the computer is up and running, they are connected to the
Internet without any extra steps.
LAN - Local Area Network. A collection of computers, usually restricted to the single home or office, wired together for the purpose of sharing data, resources and connectivity to the Internet. Most common LAN topology today is Ethernet. WAN - wide area network. A collection of computers that span a far wider geographic topology then a LAN would. Also includes collections of many LANs connected together for the purpose of seamless resource and data sharing. The Internet in general is a super-sized WAN. Methods to build the WAN vary far beyond the scope of this document. Ethernet - the most common method today of building a LAN. There are various types of Ethernet, the most used are 10baseT and 100baseT. Both use a 4 pair, unshielded and twisted wire or cable to physically connect multiple computers together. A network interface is required in each computer and they all connect to either a hub or switch. Wireless - A way of building a LAN or WAN without any physical wiring connecting them. (Continued on page 3 - see link lower right section of this page) |
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Last Updated - 12/07/2006 |
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