Internet Terms-G

G short for gigabyte.

garbage collection unwanted, unused, or otherwise useless or dated information cluttering up disk space.
garbage in garbage out (GIGO) a somewhat dated phrase meaning the conclusion reached by a computer can only be as good as the quality of the data that was used to reach the conclusion.

gateway a link between two different types of otherwise incompatible networks allowing users the benefits of both.

Gateway Inc. a direct marketer of personal computers and related products and services. Gateway develops, manufactures, markets, and supports a broad line of desktop and portable PCs, servers and workstations used by individuals, families, businesses, government agencies and educational institutions.

GB short for gigabyte.

geek short for computer geek. A term used to describe an individual, usually male, with an inordinate enthusiasm for computers and software, who sometimes neglects other routine activities of daily living such as eating and bathing.

GHz short for gigahertz.

GIF (Graphics Interchange Format) a type of graphic file developed by CompuServe utilizing Unisys technology, designed to compress graphics used on the Internet, allowing them to load quickly.

giga (G) derived from the Greek meaning giant, a metric prefix meaning X 1,000,000,000.

gigabyte approximately one billion bytes. Actually 1024 megabytes. Modern computer manufacturers usually measure hard drive storage capacity in gigabytes.

GIGO see garbage in garbage out.

glitch a small problem or malfunction associated with a computer hardware or software, though the term has evolved to include problems in many circles. see bug.

gonk slang term used in online chat rooms, bulletin boards, and other public forums, meaning to embellish or tell an outright lie.

Gopher a program maintained by the University of Minnesota using a menu-driven interface which compiles information gathered from the Internet and distills it into usable form.

GOTO a programming statement used in early computer programs such as Fortran and Basic. The use of this command has been limited since the 1970s when it was discovered to produce a great deal of erroneous data.

.gov a domain name suffix that indicates the Website is operated by one of the many arms of the federal or state governments.

grammar check a feature included in some word processing applications that alerts a user when improper grammar or spelling has been used and offers options for correcting the error. The grammar check feature can be disabled allowing the user to incorporate a particular style to the writing including grammar not considered proper.

graphical user interface (GUI) pronounced gooey. a method of interacting with a computer program by making use of graphics, icons, pop-up menus, windows, a mouse and mouse pointer. To point to an object with a mouse cursor, click on the object, and experience a result such as having a menu appear or to arrive at a Web page is an example of graphical user interface. The basic technology was developed by Xerox in the 1970s but the company could find few practical applications for it. Macintosh adapted GUI as the foundation of the Apple Macintosh in the 1980s, but it wasn’t until the early 1990s with the emergence of Windows 3.0 that the technology really took off.

graphics computer screen images represented as pictures or photographs. Graphics are formatted differently than text and require software that is able to read giga 57 and display them. The quality of a graphical image viewed on a computer or produced by a printer will depend on the resolution of the screen or printer.

graphics card a plug-in video circuit board containing memory that allows a computer to display graphic images as well as text.

grayscale the use of various shades of gray along with pure black and white to produce an image.

green PC a computer designed to minimize the use of electricity it uses. It usually shuts down after a pre-determined amount of idle time. see Energy Star.

GUI see Graphical User Interface.

GUI hack to alter a computer program or gain unauthorized entry into a program, computer, or computer system.

Internet Terms-F

For example, quoting several passages from a book for use in a review or to emphasize a point in an article would probably be considered fair use by most publishers.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) a list of common questions on a Website, bulletin board, or other public forum or service, compiled for the convenience of both the information provider and the user. Offering FAQ pages has become one of the standards of quality in providing online customer service.

fatal error an occurrence that takes place for any number of reasons while operating a computer that often causes the system to crash, resulting in the loss of any unsaved work.

fax (abbreviation for facsimile) the transmission of a copy of a paper document over telephone lines using a fax machine or a computer equipped with a fax modem. The term may be used as either a noun or a verb. As a noun one might say, “I received a fax from the office today.” As a verb, “I’ll fax this contract to the office in the morning.” fax modem a computer device that allows for the transmission and receiving of documents as faxes. As a rule, the quality of a fax received via a computer will be consistent with the quality of the printer ultimately printing the document.
A fax modem may be installed inside the computer or present as an external modem. Some fax modems also function as regular modems.

Fetch a Macintosh program that transfers files using file transfer protocol (FTP) from a computer to a server or from a server to a computer. This is one of the ways that Web pages are loaded from a Web designer to the server that offers them to users via the World Wide Web.

fiber optics the use of glass or plastic fibers for the electronic transmission of data.
The technology has several advantages over traditional wire cables in that transmission speed is greatly increased; fiber optics allow for greater bandwidth with no electromagnetic noise; fiber optic cables can carry more data; they transmit the data digitally; and they are lighter and thinner than wire cables.

file a compilation of data stored on a computer disk, identified by a name called the file name. Almost all data is stored in some type of file. A file has a first and last name and may contain an entire program or a single document.

file compression see data compression.

file extension see extension.

file format a method for encoding or arranging data in a file. Every program uses a particular format for organizing the information in the files they produce. For example, text is arranged differently than images or graphics. That is why most word processing programs cannot display photographs.

file recovery when deleting a file from a disk, the space it occupied is not actually overwritten until it is needed for new data. Therefore, in some cases it is possible to retrieve the deleted information. Some files created using Windows applications may be resurrected by going to the Recycle Bin, clicking on the file you wish to bring back so it is selected or shaded, then clicking on “Restore File.” Files created by programs other than Microsoft, may be restored with software available from several software companies, such as Norton Utilities.

filter 1. software that takes data and transforms it in some way, such as converting files in a particular format to another. 2. in image processing programs, a filter is a tool that modifies an image such as a bitmap.

find an operating system command that searches particular directories for files with specific attributes.

finger Unix software that weeds out information (particularly email info) about an Internet user and returns the data to the requesting party. This might include the user’s full name and whether he is online at the moment. Due to abuse by commercial mass emailers, Unix systems now ignore many finger queries.

Firetalk an online realtime chat service that allows users to communicate with other registered users anywhere in the world verbally. The service also offers teleconferencing, voicemail, instant messages, and a realtime chat service for Websites.

 firewall a security system designed to keep unauthorized individuals from gaining access to a private network. A firewall may be deployed in either software or hardware or both concurrently. One of the functions of a firewall is to effectively screen all incoming and outgoing messages.

firmware a combination of software and hardware that is stored in a fixed form such as read-only memory (ROM). Firmware can be found in many common appliances such as fax machines and telephones. see embedded chip.

fixed-pitch type a font in which each letter has the same width and requires the same amount of space.
flame a particularly intense insult or derogatory comment made via email, in a chat room, bulletin or message board or another online public forum.

flame war any type of online discussion that turns to a vigorous exchange (often from many sources) of insults and angry remarks. Some of the more popular stock message boards have been known to play host to heated flame wars.

floating toolbar a set of tools appearing on a computer desktop that can be dragged with the mouse cursor to another desktop location at the user’s convenience.

floppy disk a portable magnetic storage disk, the term is somewhat of a misnomer.
The 5 1/4 inch storage disk used in early model PCs was flexible, thus called a floppy disk. Today, the most common portable disk still called a floppy is the 3 1/2 inch variety. Unlike the earlier 5 1/4 inch version, the 3 1/2 inch floppy is rigid, but the name floppy has managed to stick. Floppy disks usually store 1.44 MB of data. see Figure F.02.


flush text or images aligned along a border or margin. For example, the terms in this book are flush left, or lined up in a column against a left border.

folder an object within a software application that may contain files and/or other folders. The use of folders can be helpful in the organization of data stored in a computer. see directory.

font a particular lettering style that incorporates size, spacing, and pitch. Word processing programs offer many different fonts. The default font in many writing programs is Times New Roman.

footprint the space on a physical desktop (as opposed to a computer screen) that a device such as a computer or printer requires. The term is borrowed from the construction trade, where a footprint often refers to the space a house or building will occupy on a piece of land.

foreground the program currently running on your computer. Most computers have the ability to operate more than one application at a time, called multitasking. The program that is receiving instructions from your mouse or keyboard is the one running in the foreground.

form an online document designed to accept feedback from a user. A form contains fields where the user can enter name, email address, telephone number and other information. After completing a form a simple mouse click sends the information to the requesting party. Online forms minimize the number of paper documents needed for a wide variety of purposes such as product warranty registration, entering contests, and requesting information.

FORTRAN (Formula Translator) developed by IBM in the late 1950s, one of the first high-level program languages, used primarily for scientific calculations, which remains in use today.

forward a command button on a Web browser that allows a user quick access to a Web page. The forward button works only if the user has first clicked the “back” button. In this case, the forward command allows the user to re-visit a previously viewed page.

fragmentation the condition on a disk in which files are scattered around the disk in pieces. The computer is still able to read the files but not with optimum efficiency. Disk fragmentation occurs from the continual deleting of many files over a period of time. Modern operating systems contain applications that defrag disks when directed by a user. These programs should be run periodically.

frame describes the physical format for viewing a Web page offering the user the ability to scroll up, down, or horizontally as needed. Frames may be divided into two or more sections with each frame allowing the user options for scrolling, as well as other methods for manipulating the frame, such as minimizing or maximizing the view.


There are several reasons the software is offered free. Freeware, also sometimes erroneously called shareware, is a limited version of a program that the manufacturer, distributor or author would like people to purchase. Giving users a free taste is designed to get them to buy a more comprehensive version. Another reason an individual might offer free software on the World Wide Web, or free anything for that matter, is to drive traffic to a particular Website. Online revenues are often generated by site traffic, and giving software away is a popular way of getting visitors. Finally, some people simply want others to experience their creation and are willing to distribute it freely to accomplish that end.

front end a user interface which facilitates communication with another computer, or the working aspect of an application.

FTP (File Transfer Protocol) a common method for moving files from one computer to a another over a network. Utilizing FTP is a common way for Web pages to be uploaded to Web servers by their creators.

FTP site a Web server that makes FTP files available for downloading. see anonymous FTP.

full duplex the transmission of data in two directions at the same time such as on a telephone. Most modems operate this way.

function a specific task performed by a software program.

function keys the upper row of keys on the main portion of the keyboard labeled F1 through F12. The function of each one depends on the program running. see Special Key Functions, page 281.

fuzzy logic a conclusion reached by a computer recognizing that all values are not absolutes such as yes or no, black or white etc. Fuzzy logic makes calculations considering values in varying degrees between absolutes. For example, a computer might recognize black and white as absolutes, yet make an evaluation based on a shade of gray, which is somewhere between.

Internet Terms-E

e-book a book available for downloading to a computer via the Internet. Stephen King recently made Riding The Bullet, a short horror novel, available free on amazon.com. In some cases, special software such as Adobe Acrobat is required to accommodate the material. The possibilities with e-books are enormous as information requiring periodic updating (such as college textbooks) could be easily published online and downloaded by students as needed.

e-commerce short for electronic commerce. A business that offers goods and services, as well as having the ability to accept payment for them, online. Many conventional brick and mortar companies are presently scrambling to establish an online presence and capitalize on the hoopla associated with being an ebusiness.

e-mail see email.

Easter egg a hidden surprise buried in a program or within a Website. In some instances, after executing a tricky series of commands, the user might find a funny message or the names of the programming team. On a Website an Easter egg might be an unusual game or a free offer of some sort.

Ecash a proprietary online system of payment offered by the Mark Twain Bank where a user first deposits money with the bank and then, using software provided by Mark Twain, may make purchases online, debiting the account accordingly.

ECP (Extended Capabilities Port) a kind of parallel port for PCs that allows for rapid bi-directional communications with devices such as a printer.

ecruiting the use of Internet resources by corporate headhunters to locate, evaluate, and hire individuals.

EDI (Electronic Data Interchange) the exchange of information between two or more companies with mutual interests over a network.

edit to make changes in a file using one or more of the edit features available in an application.

editor a program similar to a word processing application that allows a user to create or modify text files.

effector key a key, such as the Shift key, that when pressed, changes the function of another key.

Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) a non-profit, non-partisan, San Francisco based organization founded in 1980 working in the public interest to protect privacy and freedom of expression in the area of computers and the Internet.

electronic mall a virtual shopping mall where the user may browse and shop online.Many Internet business opportunities offered by various promoters allow entrepreneurs the chance to purchase a storefront, which is the entrepreneur's exclusive entry to an electronic mall. Under this plan, many individual storefront owners have an entry to the same mall. Using this business model, it is the storefront owner's responsibility to promote the site and drive shoppers to the mall. For online shoppers, using a mall may offer the ultimate in shop-athome convenience, however, as with any other shopping experience, evaluating a wide range of goods, services, and prices is wise.

electronic publishing providing a wide range of information in electronic form delivered via Website, email, or one of the many public forums such as bulletin boards and chat rooms.

elevator bar an onscreen scroll bar located on either side of a window frame or on the bottom of the frame that allows a user to view the part of the document too large to display otherwise. The bar is activated by placing the mouse cursor on it and clicking. This moves the page either up and down or from side to side.The same function may be accomplished by using the arrow keys on the keyboard.


eMachines a popular home computer retailer that sells high-quality, low-priced personal computers, to develop ongoing Internet-based consumer relationships.

email (e-mail) short for electronic mail. The transmission of messages both personal and commercial using a special program over a network. Email is an easy, convenient, and virtually free (at present) way to communicate using a computer within a business environment, across town, or around the world.Messages may be read immediately upon receipt, saved, or printed. The term email can be used either as a noun as in, "I received an email from the president today," or as a verb, "I'll email her tonight and set up a time for our meeting." There is some discussion as to the proper spelling of the word, but email, without the dash, seems to be emerging as the more common choice.

Email, along with other online communication forums has prompted the development of many clever abbreviations and acronyms.

email address distinguished from a domain name by the at sign @, a name that identifies an electronic mail recipient such as travelinguy@hotmail.com (one of the author's email addresses).

embedded command a pre-programmed sequence of characters within a document that causes the document to display and consequently print out in a particular way.

embedded font a type style that is included within a file to ensure that the printer has the proper resources available when the time comes to reproduce the document.

embedded object an object included in a file that was created using a different software application, yet still has a link to the authoring software.

embedded system a microprocessor that functions independently of a computer.Automobiles, telephone equipment, satellites and a number of everyday appliances contain embedded systems that perform important functions for the device.For example, an automobile's imbedded microchip might be responsible for letting the owner know when routine maintenance is due.

emoticon (icon representing emotion) sometimes called smileys, a series of keyboard punctuation characters that create smiling faces, sad faces, winking faces, etc. Emoticons are used in email and on bulletin and chat boards to express particular emotions. These are a few: :-) :-( ;-) :-O see Emoticons: Put A Smile in That File! on page 228.

emulation the resources of a program or a device to imitate another program or device. Often, lesser-known printers are designed to emulate some of the more common printers so they can share drivers.

 encryption one of many methods of securing data by encoding information so that it is only able to be read by the individuals or computers it was intended for.Usually a keyword or passcode is necessary to access the data.

End key a keyboard key that has different functions depending on the program running. For example, in some word processing programs pressing the Ctrl- End keys provides a shortcut to the end of the document. see Special Key Functions, page 281.

end user the individual or company intended as the ultimate user of a computer or software product.

Energy Star guidelines proposed by the Environmental Protection Agency in the early 1990s designed to reduce the amount of energy used by Personal Computers.

ENIAC (Electronic Numerical Integrator And Calculator) developed at the University of Pennsylvania in the mid-1940s by John Mauchly and Presper Eckert, ENIAC was the first digital, general-purpose, electronic computer. It occupied 1,800 square feet, weighed 30 tons, housed 18,000 vacuum tubes, and performed simple calculations.

Enter Key the keyboard key that moves the cursor to the next line. It also initiates a function or command. For example, when a program displays a prompt such as Save, pressing the Enter key confirms the command. Pointing the mouse cursor to the Save button and left clicking would accomplish the same function. see Return key, and Special Key Functions,.

environment the condition of a computer or computer system as determined by several factors including the hardware and operating software it is running.For example, Windows compatible applications run in the Windows environment.

ergonomics the science of developing equipment and working environments that are safe, comfortable and efficient for humans. Ergonomics evaluates the design of machines and workspaces with the goal of reducing muscle and eyestrain.

Ergonomic concerns also address proper posture and seating to reduce neck and back strain, mouse and keyboard position to minimize the occurrence of carpal tunnel syndrome, as well as monitor placement, and lighting.

Escape key a keyboard key usually labeled Esc. In the Windows environment, pressing the Escape key sometimes ends the present function and returns the user to the previous function. The term sometimes is used here because at other times, pressing Esc does absolutely nothing. This usually means more dramatic measures must be taken to end the function. see Special Key Function

etailing (electronic retailing) using the Internet to sell goods and services. see ecommerce.

Ethernet a local area network (LAN) first developed by Dr. Robert M. Metcalfe and D.R. Boggs while working for Xerox in the 1970s. Transmission of data takes place by radio signals broadcast over one of several types of coaxial cable.see LAN, LAWN Eudora one of the leading email software programs distributed by Qualcomm Enterprises. The Eudora email application is available for both Windows and Macintosh.

Excel a widely used spreadsheet program developed by Microsoft in the 1980s.

Excite a popular Internet search engine that indexes more than 50 million Web pages. Excite also reviews selected Websites and rates them using a 5 star system.

EXE file the .EXE suffix tells the computer to open or execute a particular file.

execute to carry out a command.

exit to quit the present application. Most applications programs prompt the user to save work before exiting.

expansion board a printed circuit, sometimes called a card, that can be plugged into a computer giving it enhanced capabilities such as audio and video. see SCSI.

Explore a component of the Windows 95, 98, and 2000 operating system that allows the user to view the system's directory. Explore is the equivalent of the File Manager in earlier versions of Windows. To activate Explore, right click on the Start button, choose Explore and left click the mouse.

Explorer (Microsoft Internet Explorer) an important component of Windows 95, 98, and 2000. Microsoft's Internet Explorer is among the world's leading Web Explorer browsers supporting a wide variety of graphics including Gif, Jpg and Tiff. It also allows the user to bookmark favorite Websites and includes an email program called Outlook Express. Free upgrades for registered users of Internet Explorer are available for downloading on the Microsoft Website.

export to save a file in a manner that allows it to be opened in another application.In many Windows programs selecting the "Save as" option under the File drop down menu offers many choices for saving work in other applications.For example, documents created in Microsoft Word can be formatted for use in Word Perfect and Macintosh.

extension the suffix or the characters following the period in a filename such as mountain.jpg. This file might be a photograph (or other graphical representation) of a mountain in the form of a bitmap. The name "mountain" indicates that the file contains the image, and jpg indicates the type of file, which in this case is a bitmap. The software application a computer is currently running must be configured to execute particular file formats or they will be rejected.


external viewer a program associated with a Web browser that allows the user to look at an image or graphic presented in a particular format. Adobe Acrobat is an external viewer.

extranet the linking of two or more intranets via the Internet primarily for the purpose of sharing mutually beneficial commercial information.

ezine (e-zine) often pronounced zine, an electronic magazine published on a Web page or distributed through email. Ezines cover many topics from computers and electronics to investing, sex and beyond.

Internet Terms-D

daemon a Unix program that is continuously running in the background performing specified functions in response to particular prompts.

daisy-chain the sequential connection of hardware devices with cables.

dash a punctuation mark similar to a hyphen but longer.

Dash ( — ) Hyphen ( - ) data information. Though the word data represents the plural, in common usage it may indicate either the singular or plural.

database a computerized filing system. Organized information stored so that a computer may have fast access to specific sections. For example, a large database might contain all corporations registered in the state of California. Another database might contain information on the buying habits of married couples between the ages of 25 and 35.

database management sometimes called database warehousing, a system for the smooth and efficient entering, storage, and retrieving of data so access to the information is gained by one of several methods. For example, a credit card company is able to access your account by entering your last name, your social security number, your birth date, maiden name, or actual account number.Database management is an industry unto itself under the even larger umbrella of information technology. There are a number of elaborate software systems available for the management of databases of all sizes.

data communication the delivery of information from one computer to another.For this transfer to take place, the components of the communication must conform to certain conditions. For example, the data you receive via the Internet must be converted to a usable form by your Web browser, usually HTML.

data compression the storage of data so that it requires less space than it might otherwise. There are many methods of data compression. For example, rather than write a string of 60 of the same characters, a programmer would write, "the following character is repeated 60 times." Data compression is especially useful when transmitting graphics via a modem because it allows the image to load more quickly.

data entry the process of either an individual or a machine entering information into a computer or database.

data mining data mining uses complex algorithms to search large amounts of data and find patterns, correlations, and trends in that data. A data-mining application can create a model that can identify buying habits, shopping trends, credit card purchases as well as perform many non-commercial functions.

data processing usually a reference to software that enters, sorts, categorizes and stores information for easy recall.

dead link a Web page that no longer exists, prompting an error message. A dead link may be the result of a Website that has ended operations or moved.

deadlock an occurrence where two computer processes are waiting for the other to finish, keeping each from proceeding.

debug to locate and remove errors from a computer program.

decode to transfer encoded or encrypted data to its original readable form.

decryption see decode.

dedicated designated for only one use. For example, a telephone line in an office may be dedicated only for use by a fax machine or a single network computer.

dedicated host a Web server that stores and delivers the documents that make up a single Website. A dedicated host is the opposite of a virtual host, which refers to a server that stores and delivers the Web pages of many sites. Dedicated hosting helps to ensure that a Website will always be available to users because its server has the sole purpose of maintaining and delivering one and not many sites.

default a setting automatically assumed by computer hardware or a software application with regard to various operating functions. For example, when starting, a word processing program defaults to certain margins, spacing, and fonts set by the program's developer. Many default settings in both hardware and software can be changed to suit the user's specifications.

default drive the drive the computer automatically uses unless another is selected.

default browser the Web browser that will automatically retrieve Web pages when you log onto the World Wide Web. For example, a computer may have both Netscape Navigator and Microsoft Internet Explorer installed, but always opens Navigator because it is set as the default browser.

degauss to demagnetize.

Deja News a search engine used primarily to search the Newsgroups. see search engine.

Del the Delete key on a computer keyboard. The Del key eliminates items selected on the display monitor.

Dell Computer Corporation a popular computer hardware company offering a full range of computer systems, including desktop computer systems, notebook computers, workstations and network server and storage products, as well as an extended selection of peripheral hardware and computing software. Dell's business is based on direct sales of custom-built products, thereby eliminating the need for an extensive network of wholesale and retail dealers, and avoiding typical dealer mark-ups and other related costs.

delete to remove unwanted programs, files, text, or graphics from a computer.

denizen slang term for an inexperienced, unsophisticated individual who serfs the Web.

desktop everything appearing on your computer screen at any given time. The desktop in a Windows system with no programs running, usually displays icons that represent shortcuts to opening specific programs. see icon, shortcut.

desktop publishing the use of a personal computer to design and produce professional quality printed documents. There are hundreds of software programs available allowing users to typeset and place illustrations and photographs in a wide variety of printed materials from brochures and manuals, to books and posters. Among those highly rated by both home users and individuals in the publishing industry, are Adobe PhotoShop and Adobe PageMaker.

 dialog box a window appearing on the screen offering the user information or options as to the next step in the present application. For example, when setting up the layout for a document in a word processing program, a dialog box is available offering the user options on the size and style of the font, margins, and possibly the color of the text.

dial-up connection one computer connected to another utilizing a telephone connection and a modem.

digital information encoded and expressed with the use of binary numbers representing many values in the real world. Digital information is distinguished by the fact that only pre-determined values may be represented using zeros and ones. For example, a digital thermometer would display the temperature using pre-assigned values. On a digital thermometer, the temperature might read 76.2. The next higher reading available might be 76.3. The true temperature, however, could range anywhere between 76.2 and 76.3, such as 76.21, .22, .23 etc. The possible values existing between 76.2 and 76.3 are infinite, but the thermometer, limited by design, can only display pre-set values. Consequently, pinpointing exact values represented by digital data is virtually impossible.Though limited in this way, digital information has many advantages because extremely close approximations are easily achievable. Digital data is also easy to store and manipulate. Opposite of analog.

digital audio sound recorded and transmitted in a binary format.

digital camera a camera that encodes images without the use of film and records them directly to a disk or a computer.

digital cash a system for the payment of goods or services online or otherwise by transmitting encrypted data from one computer to another usually through arrangements with a bank.

Digital computer representations can be broken down to simple binary expressions.All modern computers are digital as opposed to analog computers which would express values as individual points on a continuum. A slide-rule would be an analog computer.

digital-to-analog converter a device that converts digital data into analog signals.

digiterati variation of literati, refers to an elite class of individuals who consider themselves to be among the ultra-informed with regard to the digital revolution.

digitization having been digitized. see digitize.

digitize to convert information into digital form. For example, optical scanners achieve digitization by converting images into bitmaps.

dingbats specialized characters that are neither letters or numbers.

dir (directory) in the operating systems DOS and OS/2, the command that calls up all the files in a particular directory.

directory also called folder, an inventory of all the files contained in a specific section of a computer disk. A disk may contain more than one directory and directories may contain other directories. see folder.

discussion group a group of people exchanging ideas and thoughts online encompassing a wide variety of topics of interest either in a chat room, interactive live chat, message board, or some other public discussion forum.

disk a round flat platter used for the storage of computer data. The hard disk (the primary storage device) is usually, though not always, a permanent (internal) part of a computer. Optical disks, such as CD-ROMs, and diskettes are portable disk storage devices.


diskette sometimes referred to as a floppy disk. A round, flat, portable device used to store computer data.

DNS (Domain Name Server or System) a computer set to translate IP addresses into domain names. Web addresses are read by the DNS numerically. For example, http://www.GrandCentralDiscounts.com might have the IP address, 164.205.775.07 but that would be hard for a user to remember, so GrandCentralDiscounts.com, an alphabetic name, is used. The DNS translates the name into its numeric equivalent.

dock to attach or connect, usually one hardware device to another.

docking station a fixed location that makes accessories available to a laptop computer.These might include a permanent power supply, a printer, or a scanner.

document a file usually created using a word processing application, which contains one or more of the following: text, graphics, tables, or charts.

domain address a Website's alphabetic address in readable form as opposed to the IP address which is in numerical form. see DNS, IP.

domain name hoarding the registration of many domain names usually in an attempt to keep competitors from using them.

domain name poaching the registration of a popular, clever, or a even a trade name with the intent to sell it in the future. For example, one might register the domain www.pepsi.com in anticipation of selling that domain name to Pepsi.Some feel the days of actually being able to register a good .com domain have gone by the wayside with the ever-increasing popularity of the World Wide Web.

DOS (Disk Operating System) refers to any operating system, but has been mainly identified with Microsoft or MS-DOS. MS-DOS was first developed by Microsoft Corporation as the operating system for IBM personal computers.

dot the period character ( . ).

dot com the American designation for a commercial or personal Website, such as http://www.kokobono.com.

dot matrix printer a printer that creates forms and characters by means of pins striking an inked ribbon.

double click to press a mouse button (usually the left) two times in quick succession to start a program or initiate a command.

down unavailable for use. A term with a broad-based meaning, referring to a computer, a network, an ISP, a Website, or almost anything related to computers and their many uses.

download to copy or transfer data from one computer to another. Technically speaking, every time you view a Web page you are first downloading material from thatWebsite's server. Among the many advantages of being online are the wide variety of free software available for users to download.

dpi (dots per inch) the number of dots or pixels located within a linear inch. The higher the dpi, the better the clarity or resolution.

drag to re-locate an object on a desktop by placing the mouse cursor (pointer or arrow) on top of the image, pressing the left button, and holding the button down while moving the image to another location on the desktop.

drag and drop a classic feature of the graphical user interface, the ability to click on a file, text, or a graphical image and deposit it to another location. The drag and drop features in both Windows and the Macintosh make many computer functions more manageable. see graphical user interface.

DRAM (Dynamic Random-Access Memory) pronounced D-Ram, the most common type of memory operation in modern personal computers. DRAM must be continuously refreshed (thousands of times per second) during a computer session (this occurs automatically) or it is cleared. see RAM, SRAM, ROM.

drive bay a port or access space on a computer that can accommodate a disk drive.

driver (device driver) a program that works in conjunction with a computer's operating system to control any number of devices such as a printer, monitor, scanner, mouse or keyboard.

drop-down menu a list of selections or options that appears when a user clicks on an item such as File or Help.

DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) the use of existing copper telephone lines for high speed data transmission such as Internet connections. Like a leased line, a DSL must be configured to connect at two specific locations. see SDSL.

DSL DSS (Digital Satellite System or Digital Signature Standard) 1. Digital Satellite System, a network of satellites that broadcasts and relays digital signals such as satellite TV signals. 2. Digital System Standard, a federal government standard used to identify and verify the sender of electronic data.

dumb terminal a computer display monitor without any microprocessing capabilities, usually only able to display numerals and text.

dump the transfer of raw data, usually from a computer's main memory, for display on a printer or a monitor.

DVD (Digital Video Disc) a high-density CD with more than seven times the capacity of a regular CD (enough capacity for a full length movie). Most DVD drives are also able to read CD ROMs.

dweeb an unsophisticated, obnoxious, person, (with very few exceptions, male) often a newbie, who, through ignorant posting, annoys, irritates and otherwise frustrates the regulars in a chat room or other online communication forum.Dweebs are often interested in meeting members of the opposite sex and pursuing women by exaggerating and boasting about themselves along with other annoying and inappropriate behavior.

dynamic HTML also called dynamic content, information on a Website or Web page that is constantly being updated, usually daily, but sometimes as often as a user refreshes the page. Some dynamic content is instantaneously created according to a keyword used in a search.

dynamic RAM see DRAM, RAM, SDRAM, SRAM.

Internet Terms-C

C a programming language developed by Bell Laboratories in the 1970s.

C++ a graphics oriented programming language developed in the 1980s.

cable modem a modem that sends and receives data over television cable lines.Cable modems typically transmit data faster than telephone connections.

cache can be used as a noun or a verb. As a noun, a data storage reserve where information may be held and called up quickly. As a verb, cache means to store data temporarily until it is called upon by a user. Web browsers cache pages so they do not need to be downloaded from the Internet each time you access the page. Cached data is stored temporarily in a computer's main memory or a specially designated memory storage space within the microprocessor.

CAD (Computer Aided Design) the use of both hardware and software for design work such as architecture as well as a wide variety of engineering functions.CAD applications are used to generate three-dimensional images.

camera ready desktop publishing documents that are ready for the printer.

cancel to completely halt a command. The cancel button appearing at the bottom of most dialog boxes (Windows) makes it difficult to make an error because you can easily back out of a function by clicking on it.

cancelbot a program left running on a Web server that automatically deletes messages on newsgroups and message boards. A cancelbot application is often used to filter out spam. see spam.

 caps short for capital or uppercase letters such as these: CAPS. Sending email or posting online in a public forum such as a news group or message board in all caps is considered to be shouting and rude. It also makes the message hard to read. see uppercase.

Caps Lock a key on the left side of the keyboard that, when pressed allows a user to type in caps without depressing the Shift key. When finished, press it again to deactivate it.

capture 1. to save a graphic image as a bitmap.
              2. in the Windows environment, to transfer an item to the clipboard. see screen capture.

carbon copy a copy of an outgoing email saved by the sender. see Cc.

card a printed circuit board that adds additional features to a computer such as video or audio. A card is usually easy to install both internally or externally because of its ability to be plugged in.

cascade 1. an arrangement of overlapping windows displayed on a computer monitor.
               2. the replies in response to a message in a public forum such as a message board.

CASE (Computer Aided Software Engineering) the use of computers to help with the development of software.

case short for nutcase. A regional slang expression for the "Randy" factor. In the Northeast, "Randy" (last name unknown) was an early pioneer in hacking.

case sensitive to distinguish between capital letters (UPPERCASE) and small letters (lowercase). Many Internet logon keys, codes, and passwords are case sensitive and must be entered properly or the user will be denied access. For example, ABC would be different than abc.

catalog a somewhat dated term for the contents of a disk. see directory.

CAV (Constant Angular Velocity) a constant disk rotation speed whether data is being accessed from the outer edge of the disk or nearer the center.

Cc abbreviation for carbon copy. The double letters refer to copies. When used in an email header, Cc indicates that copies of the message are being sent to more than one address. see Bcc.

CCD (Charge-coupled Device) devices used for the electronic recording of images.

CCDs are used in digital cameras and scanners.

 CD (Compact Disc) a plastic disc with a metal finish, developed in the 1980s, capable of storing digitized music. A CD stores data on a continuous groove, much like a phonograph record. One CD can store up to 74 minutes of music.see CD-I, CD-ROM, CD-RW.

CD-I (Compact Disc Interactive) a compact disc that stores and makes available audio, video and binary data. Developed as a joint venture of Phillips and Sony, the CD-I standard has not been widely accepted.

CD-R (Compact Disc Recordable) a compact disc that can be used for recording.These are readable the in same way as regular CDs.

CD-ROM (Compact Disc-Read Only Memory) a disc with identical physical characteristics as a music CD, only containing computer data. Unlike a music CD, a CD-ROM can store both computer data and music. CD-ROM drives are able to read the data on a disc, but not record, thus the "read only" designation. The data storage capacity for a CD-ROM is nearly 700 megabytes, enabling it to hold extremely large amounts of data.

CD-ROM drive (CD-ROM player) an internal or external computer hardware device that reads data from a CD-ROM.

CD-RW (Compact Disc-ReWritable) a type of CD that may be used for recording.It may be erased and reused. These have been widely available for several years and are slightly more costly than the CD-R.

CD writer a device that allows a user to record (burn) data using a CD-RW. A CDRW drive allows for the backup of music CDs as well as software applications, photos and individual files.

cell an individual unit of a table, spreadsheet, Web page layout, or database.

center to align text, graphics or images in the middle of a page with equal space on either side.

CGI (Computer Gateway Interface) a means of transmitting information from a Web server by executing programs in response to a Web browser's requests using HTTP. CGI programs process information requests and return the appropriate document to the client computer. see HTTP.

channel 1. a communications path. 2. high-speed communications hardware used to interface mainframe computers.

character 1. a symbol that can be stored by a computer requiring one byte of storage space. 2. in word processing applications, keyboard symbols such as individual letters that are used to make up words.

chat interactive online communication held in real time where users type messages back and forth. There are an increasing number of online forums being made available for chat. ICQ chat and Microsoft Messenger offer free chat software.There are many chat programs available that enable users to chat using voice technology.

chat room any of a large number of Websites or newsgroups where users can communicate using a keyboard in real time on a wide variety of topics ranging from oceanography to sex, politics, and much more. If you can come up with a topic, there's probably a chat room for you.

check box a box offering particular options that the user may choose or reject.

chip a small integrated circuit usually made from silicon or germanium that may hold millions of electronic components. Among the many chips used in computer hardware are microprocessors and memory chips.

clickonus check box central processing unit 25 circuit board see printed circuit board.

Cisco Systems a major hardware manufacturer that creates hardware and software solutions that link computer networks so that people have easy access to information without regard to differences in time, place or type of computer system.

click rate the number of impressions counted as a result of users clicking on an ad banner. The click rate is used by marketing firms to determine advertising fees.

clickable image an image on a Web page that contains an invisible hyperlink that directs the user to another page.

clickstream the path a user takes while navigating through cyberspace, or more specifically, through a Website. Software is available to track this activity. Following a user from Website to Website is valuable information to online advertisers as a measurement of advertising effectiveness.

client a computer that receives services from another computer. For example, the computer running the Web browser you use when accessing the World Wide Web is the client of the Web server delivering the Web documents.

clip art artwork available on floppy disk and CD-ROM as well as on the World WideWeb in several file formats to use without the need to pay royalty fees.

Thecreator is paid for the work by either producing and distributing it himself, or receives payment at the time a deal is struck with a publisher. The publisher then goes on to charge end users a licensing fee. A wide selection of clip art is available on numerous Websites free of charge. see Figure C.04.

Clipboard a useful tool that acts as a temporary storage space holding information (both text and graphics) you've cut or copied until you are ready to paste it to it's final destination. In Windows the images or text vanish when the computer is turned off. Macintosh has both a Clipboard that operates in the same way, and a Scrapbook that holds more than one image at a time, and saves held material from one work session to another.

clock the component within a computer that keeps track of the date and time. see BIOS.

clock rate (clock speed) the speed that a computer's microprocessor is able to process information, usually measured in MHz. see microprocessor, CPU.

clone a computer or software program that functions exactly like another. A clone is often a less expensive imitation of the original. The term became popular after IBM set the standard for personal computers and rival manufacturers imitated the IBM PC.

close In Windows, to save your work and exit a program.

cluster a grouping of sectors on a disk that function as a single unit.

CLV (Constant Linear Velocity) in older disk drivers, the changing of the rotation speed in relation to where the data is stored. Because less information is located close to the center of the disc, it needs to turn faster to access the data.

CAV (Constant Angular Velocity) is rapidly replacing this technology. see CAV.

CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black) the four standard ink colors from which all other printed colors are derived. see color printer.

coaster a slang term used for give-away CDs such as those one might receive in the mail as promotional offerings.

coaxial cable a cable consisting of a single wire in the center surrounded by insulation and grounded with a braided conductive shield. The shield is designed to prevent the cable from receiving or emitting electrical noise. Coaxial cable is used for cable television and the networking of computers.

COBOL (Common Business Oriented Language) first developed in the 1950s by the US Department of Defense and several early computer manufactures, COBOL is a somewhat wordy computer language used for business data processing.It remains the most widely used programming language today.

code a method of encrypting data using a wide variety of programming languages, making it readable by a computer.

cold fusion a tool developed by Allaire Corporation that integrates browser, server, and database technologies for rapid application development and Website design.

collate to arrange printed pages in a particular order.

color printer a printer connected to a computer that is capable of printing in more than one color. Most printers use the CMYK standard. These colors applied on top of one another blend to simulate most natural colors. see CMYK, laser printer, printer.

color separation a camera-ready photograph or graphic in which the individual base colors are isolated usually into four distinct prints. When combined during the printing process, the combination of prints displays the original color image.

column a vertical line of characters, words or images, displayed on a monitor or the printed page.

COM short for communications, a term generally used to describe the serial port on a PC.

.com an Internet domain designation given to URLs that are commercial, or personal in nature. see domain, URL.

COM port the location of a socket on the back of a computer for connecting accessories such as printers or modems.

command an order or instruction given to a computer so that it performs a specific function. Commands may be executed through the use of a mouse, a light pen, command 28 special keys, menu choices, buttons, and by voice with the use of voice-activated software applications.

command button an area designated by a circular, square, rectangular or other shape, that when clicked, initiates a computer function.

Command Key a key on the Macintosh designated by a clover-like symbol that acts as a shift key, in that when pressed, it changes the functions of other keys.

commerce server a special Web server designed to process credit card transactions.

compact disc see CD.

Compaq (Compaq Computer Corporation) a leading computer manufacturer that designs, develops and markets computers and computer software.

compatible having the ability to function together. In order for software applications and certain hardware devices such as printers and modems to operate, they must be compatible with a computer's operating system and other system hardware.

compression the storage of computer data so it requires less disk or file space.

Compressed graphics files allow significantly quicker loading time on the World Wide Web. see data compression.

CompuServe an online information service accessible by modem offering a wide range of services such as discussion, stock quotes, news and more.

computer an electronic machine capable of storing, processing, and retrieving data as well as communicating with other computers linked on a network.

computer ethics an unwritten code of conduct for computer users. The point to remember here is, users have the same legal responsibilities using computers that they do at any other time. Computer ethics has a long way to go before solid guidelines or mandates are officially determined. Questions of privacy, intellectual property ownership rights such as copyrights and licenses, and conduct regarding the use of computers to send bulk email are among the many issues requiring resolution.

computer literacy the level of skill an individual has with computers and computer applications.

computer science the extensive study of computer design including both hardware and software applications.

computer security the effort to protect computers from physical danger, malicious tampering and the undesired disclosure of information. Accomplishing these ends encompass a wide array of measures from the actual physical protection of computer hardware, to the guarding of data through the use of firewalls, encrypted information, passwords, and access codes.

computer system a complete operational computer including operating software.A computer system might also refer to a small network linked to enhance the functioning of an individual computer.

conferencing the use of a computer network where users are able to communicate in real time.

CONFIG.SYS a DOS file containing data concerning the configuration of the computer's drivers, keyboard and memory.

configure to set up computer hardware and/or software so it functions in a particular way.

connect to go online.

connect time the amount of time spent online during one or more computer sessions.

console the combination of keyboard and computer display monitor.

content all of the information contained on a Website.content 30 content provider usually a free online service provider offering a wide variety of services such as news, weather, stock quotes, entertainment, games, discussion forums and more. see online service.

contrast the intensity and clarity of light and dark values while shown in grayscale either on a display monitor or a printer. The use of distinct black and white values represents high contrast while the use of gray shows lower contrast.

Control key the keyboard key labeled Ctr, used like the shift key in that it changes the function of other keys. On the Macintosh the Control key is called the Command key or the Apple key.

Control Panel an application that allows the user to set many individual features on a computer such as keyboard and mouse settings, power management, monitor and many system settings. In Windows, the Control Panel can be accessed by clicking on the Start button and then Settings. From the Desktop the path would be, My Computer and Control Panel. For the Macintosh, access can be found under the Apple menu.

conversion program an application that changes a file from one format to another.

cookie a piece of data such as logon and user information, user preferences, and shopping information automatically sent by a Website through a Web server and stored by a Web Browser. It is the intent of the Website sending the cookie to recognize a user who has visited them in the past. On subsequent visits, the information contained in the cookie returns to the originating site, allowing the operator to offer specific products and services tailored to the user's preferences as determined by previous visits. Due to certain privacy issues regarding the gathering of personal information, users sometimes have the option of disabling cookies.

CoolTalk a real-time desktop audio conferencing and data collaboration tool specifically designed for the Internet. CoolTalk provides real-time audio conferencing at 28.8K and faster modem speeds, and includes a full function whiteboard, text-based chat tool, and answering machine.

copy 1. the duplication of information. 2. a DOS, OS/2, or Windows command that makes a copy of a file. 3. to duplicate and temporarily store data in a holding space or buffer such as a clipboard for further use. see copy and paste.

copy and paste in a word processing application, to duplicate an item such as an individual character, line of text, image or an entire document, and insert it at another point within the document, or into a different document or file, while retaining the original copied material in its original location. see paste.

Consequently, software manufacturers have tried to discourage piracy by requiring that the user enters a registration number when installing the program.

copyright the right to copy, a legal restriction of the reproduction of written, recorded, and electronic articles, books, audio and video recordings, and most computer software programs. The copyright is intended to protect the author's rights of ownership of the work. An author need not register a work with the US Copyright Office to be protected under the law. Technically, simply declaring that a work is copyrighted by publishing it with © and the date is enough, however, official registration with the US Copyright office may prove to be prudent. The copyright symbol is common and appears as follows: The User Friendly Guide to Internet & Computer Terms Copyright © 2001 Gold Standard Press Inc. All rights reserved.

CORBA (Common Object Request Broker Architecture) a standardized architecture that allows portions of programs, known as objects, to interact without regard to differing programming languages.

Courier a typewriter-like font used on typewriters, inkjet, dot matrix, and laser printers. This is an example of courier.

CPU (Central Processing Unit) sometimes referred to as the brains of the computer, the CPU is where the majority of the mathematical calculations, decoding of data, and the execution of coded instructions occurs. In personal computers the central processing unit resides in a single chip called a microprocessor.When someone refers to the speed of a computer, the reference is to the CPU and is measured in megahertz (Mhz). see microprocessor, processor.

cracker a person who gains unauthorized entry into a computer or computer system through the Internet and copies commercial software, sometimes simply to see if it can be done and sometimes for financial gain. In certain circles, a cracker would be considered less proficient than a hacker, though the terms are often interchangeable. see hacker.

crapplet a slang term for a useless applet.

crash a sudden and serious computer failure due to either a hardware or software malfunction, usually resulting in a loss of unsaved work. Among the many reasons for a computer to crash are running too many programs at once and crash 32 trying to operate a program requiring large amounts of memory without having the necessary resources available.

crawler a program that searches the Internet seeking publicly accessible information and Web documents. The information might be stored in a database and made available through a search engine. Crawlers are also known as spiders, bots and wanderers. see spider.

crippleware free software that has one or more features left out. Manufactures make this available hoping that users will buy a fully functional version.

cross-platform a software application, or hardware, that is able to run with more than one kind of computer such as an IBM or clone and Macintosh. Software that could run on both computers is said to be cross-platformed.

cross-post posting the same message in a number of different public forums simultaneously, sometimes with the use of special software. In some cases (such as with commercial offers) cross-posting is called spamming and considered bad netiquette. see spam.

CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) a glass vacuum tube in which an electron beam or ray is projected onto a florescent screen to produce a luminous image or picture.

Television and computer screens are CRTs.

cryptography encoding data in such a way that it may not be understood by persons or computers without an authorization key or code.

CSP (commerce service provider) a company that provides a merchant or individual the means to process the purchase of goods or services online.

Ctrl-Alt-Del pressing these keys together quickly halts all computer functions. A dialog box will appear asking the user if she wants to shut down the present application. Contrary to common belief, pressing these keys together does not shut down a computer.


cursor a blinking I-beam shaped symbol on a computer screen showing the user where the next character or object will appear. Depending upon the program running, a cursor might also show as an arrow or a hand. The cursor can be manipulated by using either the keyboard or the mouse. see mouse cursor.

customer support see technical support.

cut to remove either text or graphics from an application and save it in a temporary holding area or buffer sometimes called a clipboard.

cut and paste to identify and isolate an element of a document and eliminate it from a particular location, then replace it by moving it to another location within or outside of the document. see copy, copy and paste, paste.

cyber (prefix) see Cybernetics.

Cybernetics the study of processing and assimilating information using electromechanical devices. The term has evolved from its earlier meaning to refer almost exclusively to computers.

cyberpunk a term loosely describing an antisocial individual conforming to a peculiar lifestyle characterized by an obsession with both computers and the dark side of the Internet.

cyberspace the abstract, non-physical world made up of networked computers where people communicate, shop, study, research, play, socialize and otherwise interact.

Cybertown a virtual community set in the latter half of the 21st Century that may be accessed through the Netscape Web browser, Netscape Navigator.

Cybrarian an online research junkie.

cycle the unit of measure which is a single oscillation of a computer's CPU clock.Programs running concurrently are competing for cycles.

Cyrix a subsidiary of National Semiconductor that designs, develops, manufactures semiconductor products, including microprocessors for the personal computer industry, and analog, mixed-signal and other integrated circuits for applications in a variety of markets, including the information appliances, personal systems, wireless communications, flat panel and CRT display, power management, local and wide area networks, automotive, consumer and military aerospace markets.

Internet Terms-B

b2b (business to business) a popular phrase that refers to a company either online,  brick and mortar (a physical location) or both, that specializes in providing goods and services to other businesses and not consumers.

b2c (business to consumer) refers to a company either doing business online, a business with a physical location, or both, that provides goods and services  primarily to consumers.

back the browser command button that returns you to the previously viewed page.

backbone the major connections or high-speed cables servicing a network. For example, the backbone for the Internet in the United States is maintained by  the various telecomms that own the high-speed lines comprising the network.

back door an alternative way of gaining access to a computer system. A back door  entry might be a programmed secret access into the system unknown to routine  users of the system.

back end the database to which information presented by the front-end application  connects. see front end.

background the field or setting against which characters or graphics are displayed  on a monitor.

background execution modern computers are capable of running more than one  program at a time. This is called multitasking. The program in use (primary  program) is said to be operating in the foreground. Secondary programs are  running in the background. For example, you might be writing a letter on a  word processing program in the foreground while periodically monitoring a  realtime stock quote application. To access the program in the background, the  user would click the program icon on the taskbar.

backlighting flat-panel display illumination from behind that causes the foreground  to appear more distinct in contrast to the background.

backslash the keyboard character, ( \ ).

backup also written as back up, to copy or save a program or file for safe keeping  in the event the working program fails in some way or is lost. It is wise to back  up all files on floppy, zip disks, or tape. Many software applications periodi -  cally prompt you to save your work while you are actually working. However, a  usershould still backup all work on the computer's hard drive in case of malfunction  or failure.

bandwidth the quantity of data that can effectively be sent through a connection,  measured in bits-per-second. The greater the bandwidth, the faster the transmission  of information. High bandwidth also provides clearer images on a  computer's display monitor while online.

bang the key character, ( ! ). The exclamation point.

banner ad an advertisement on a Web page with a short compelling message. The  message is designed to get the user to click on the ad. The ad contains a hyperlink  to the advertiser's Website. see hyperlink.

bar chart (bar graph) a type of chart or graph that quantifies or measures relative  values represented by rectangular bars.

BASIC (Beginners All-purpose Symbolic Instruction Code) an early computer programming  language developed in the 1960s that has many contemporary varia-  Figure B.01. bar chart  11 BASIC  16  tions functioning today. BASIC is used for many business applications and  includes a great number of proprietary functions.

batch processing putting a computer to work to process large amounts of data at  one time. Batch processing is best accomplished during periods when the computer  would otherwise be idle because continuous running time is required.

BAT file (batch file) a DOS or Microsoft file that ends with a .BAT extension.

baud a unit of measurement that represents the number of bits that can be sent or  received over a telephone line or via a satellite signal per second. Baud is actually  the maximum number of times per second that the signal shifts value. For  example, a 56,000-baud modem takes 56,000-baud (56,000-bps) and encodes it  into an audio signal whose actual signal is 14,000. To keep it simple, remember  that the higher the baud rate, the faster the transmission of data. The challenge  is that telephone lines are limited in their ability to transmit these signals.
The term baud is losing popularity to the more accurate "bps" meaning  bits per second.

bay (bay drive, drive bay) a site on a computer or portable disk drive where a disk  or tape drive may exist or be installed.

BBS (Bulletin Board System) a computerized meeting and chat system where subscribers  can exchange ideas and information, as well as upload and download  files. Since the early 1990s the functions of BBSs have been much replaced by  the Internet.

Bcc abbreviation for blind carbon copies. When composing email, the writer has  the option of sending copies to others so the recipients cannot see each other's  email addresses and are not aware that copies are going to addresses other than  their own.

bells and whistles advanced features available on both computer hardware and  software. In the past, bells and whistles referred to features that made the computer  or program more difficult to use. Now, however, bells and whistles often  refer to desirable or state-of-the-art features.

benchmark a program used to test the performance of software and/or hardware.
A benchmark is a standard that is not entirely objective because of the possible  bias of the individual who developed the test, or the equipment settings determined  by the tester.

beta (beta testing) software that is in the preliminary or testing stage where glitches  or bugs may still be undetected. Users involved in beta testing are often rebatch  processing  17  quired to run the application extensively and record findings such as ease of  use, and any problems encountered, and report back to the developer with suggestions  as to how the software might be improved.

bi-directional the ability to transmit data in two directions. Contemporary parallel  ports are bi-directional because of their ability to communicate with printers as  well as disk drivers.

binary a number system that uses two distinct digits. Computers use the binary  number system which is comprised of the numbers 0 and 1. Digital data of  every imaginable type is encoded using the binary system.

BinHex a method for converting binary data into ASCII. see ASCII.

BIOS (Basic Input Output System) built-in software that controls a number of  routine functions of a computer such as the display screen, keyboard, disk drives,  and the real time clock.

bit bi(nary) digi(t) the most basic unit of data in the binary numeral system. Computers are often classified by the number of bits they can process at one  time.

bit bucket a slang term that refers to the unknown place where lost data goes,  never to be recovered.

bitmap any graphical representation displayed on a computer monitor that is  comprised of pixels or dots. Every pixel is made up of bits of data, each of  which helps to define the overall color and shade of the graphic when translated  into an image by the computer and display monitor. In monochrome monitors,  one bit represents a single pixel. Bitmaps come in a variety of file formats  such as GIF, JPEG, and TIFF.

BITNET a large area-wide network originating in the early 1980s used to transmit  email among university scholars and researchers.

bits per second (bps) a unit of measurement that counts the number of bits that  can be sent or received over a telephone line or via a satellite signal per second.
Modem speeds are measured using bps. see baud.

bloatware a slang term used to describe software with elaborate features requiring  large amounts of disk space and RAM.

block move in word processing, the moving of one section of a file to another  location within the file, or to an entirely different file. This is accomplished by  block move  18  highlighting the desired text, copying the highlighted material and pasting it  to the new location.

board 1. short for a printed circuit board. 2. a bulletin board system or chat forum.

bogus a slang term used to describe anything defective or faulty.

bold (boldface) a font that is darker than the normal. Contemporary word processors  allow a user to change a font to boldface with the click of a button. For  example, this is normal print. This is boldface print.

bomb a tremendous failure with regard to a computer project of any type or a  software application.

bookmark a feature on a Web browser that allows the user to store one or more  favorite Websites or URLs, save them in a folder, and have them readily  accessible by a couple of simple mouse clicks. Bookmarks are also referred to  as Favorites.

boolean (boolean logic) a system of locating and retrieving computer data by the  use of certain words such as AND, OR, XOR and NOT.

boot to start a computer. Derived from the word bootstrap.

boot disk software used to start a computer.

bot slang expression for robot, a program that runs automatically. Among the uses  for bots are to locate information on the World Wide Web and for the automatic  collection of email addresses.

bounce 1. the return of undeliverable email to the sender. 2. to transfer incoming  email without identifying who forwarded it.

bounding box (box) an invisible enclosure surrounding a graphic that allows the  user to manipulate the image with handles represented by small black squares.
It also determines the true size of the image.

Bps when written with a capital B, Bytes per second.
bps bits per second.

braces (curly braces) the keyboard characters { }.

brackets (square brackets) the keyboard characters [ ].

brittle usually refers to software operating reliably yet subject to sudden malfunction  quickly, under even the slightest change in conditions.

broken hyperlink (broken link) a link on a Web page that, for any number of  reasons no longer points (connects) to a another page. see dead link.

browser (Web browser) a software application that retrieves Web pages or files on  the World Wide Web. Web browsers are the programs that allow users to call  for and view information online. Popular Web browsers a include Microsoft  Internet Explorer and Netscape Navigator.

bug an error or malfunction in a computer program. Recently the term has taken on  a broader meaning referring to almost any problem having to do with both  software and hardware.

bullet a program character as opposed to a keyboard character used to emphasize a  point in a document. Bullets come in many sizes and shapes. The following are  a few examples:  bundled software software sold as part of a package either with a computer or with  other software. For example, most PCs come equipped with the most recent  version of Windows while Microsoft Office consists of individual programs  that compliment each other and are less costly packaged together.

bounding box  bullets  bundled software  burn slang term referring to the copying or recording of data on a CD-R or floppy  disk.

bus the configuration of wires and electronic channels through which data is transmitted  inside a computer.

button a circular, square, or rectangular designation within a dialog box, toolbar,  or on a desktop, that a user can click with a mouse to initiate various functions.

byte the space required in a computer to store a single character. In modern computers  a byte is usually equal to 8 bits. The main memory space or hard drive in  a computer is now measured in Gigabytes (GB), one GB being the equivalent  of approximately one billion bytes.