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355 Cards in this Set
- Front
- Back
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A/V |
Audio Video connector (A/V) is a connector where audio and video cords are combined to transfer information from one device to another. Some examples are RCA and HDMI cables.
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A+ Certification
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A CompTIA certification that covers skills such as installing, repairing, troubleshooting, maintaining, customizing, and operating PCs.
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AC
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Alternating current (AC) is an electric current which reverses direction of flow periodically according to a frequency. AC us measured in hertz, or cycles per second.
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ACL
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Access control list (ACL) is a list that contains information about which users or groups have permission to access a resource or modify a file.
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ACPI
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Advanced Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI) is a specification developed jointly by Microsoft, Intel, and Toshiba for managing power use on mobile, desktop, and server computers.
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Activation
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The process which shows that a copy of software is legal.
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Active Cooling
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A type of cooling process in which a fan is mounted directly onto a heat sink for forced-air cooling.
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Address Bus
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A component of a CPU which is used to communicate with RAM by transmitting the physical address of the data.
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ADSL
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Asymmetrical digital subscriber line (ADSL) is technology and equipment allowing high-speed digital communication. Uses twisted-pair copper phone line and has speeds up to 8 Mbps.
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Adware
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A program that advertises products while visiting a Web site.
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AGP
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Accelerated Graphics Port (AGP) is a high-performance bus. Designed for fast, high-quality display of 3-D and video images.
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AMD
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Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. (AMD) is a manufacturing company that produces CPU and chipsets.
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APIPA
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Automatic Private Internet Protocol Addressing (APIPA) is a feature of Windows which automatically assigns IP addresses to the system when the client cannot obtain an IP address automatically.
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APM
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Advanced Power Management (APM) is an older power management technology. It was used by mobile PCs before the Advanced Configuration and Power Interface. It is a software interface that functions between the BIOS software that is specific to the hardware and the power-management policy driver that is run by the operating system.
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ARP
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Address Resolution Protocol (ARP) is a TCP/IP protocol to determine the hardware address of a node on a local area network connected to the Internet.
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ASR
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Automatic system reconfiguration (ASR) is where configuration by the system is done automatically to accommodate some changes in either the software or the hardware.
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ATA
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Advanced Technology Attachment (ATA), also known as IDE, is a hard drive controller interface to replace the ST506 and ESDI drives without replacement of the AT BIOS.
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ATAPI
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Advanced Technology Attachment Packet Interface (ATAPI) is a standard that helps mass storage devices to use IDE/ATA controllers.
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ATM
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Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM) is a network technology that is able to transfer data, voice, audio, video, and frame relay traffic in real time.
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Attributes
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Settings which may be applied to files and folders, such as read-only or hidden.
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ATX
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Advanced Technology Extended (ATX) is a specification for PC motherboards with audio and video capabilities built in.
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BIOS
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Basic input/output system (BIOS) is the set of essential software routines that tests hardware at startup, starts the operating system, and supports the transfer of data among hardware devices.
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BitLocker
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A feature included in the Ultimate and Enterprise editions of Windows Vista and Windows 7 which allows a user to encrypt computers in a robust fashion, by providing encryption for entire volumes. BitLocker uses the AES encryption algorithm with a 128 bit key code by default.
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Bitmap
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An image mode that uses black or white color values to represent the pixels in an image.
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BITS
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Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS) is an IIS subcomponent used by the Windows and Automatic Updates functions to enable updates to be sent automatically to the IIS server. This feature is disabled by default in Windows Server 2003.
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Black Hat
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An individual who uses hacking skills for malicious or destructive purposes.
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Blackjacking
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Any hacking attack performed against a BlackBerry device.
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BNC
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Bayonet Neill-Concelman or British Naval Connector (BNC) was named after Paul Neill and Carl Concelman, who developed two types of coaxial connectors. BNC is a connector used to join segments of coaxial cable, and it is often used with closed-circuit television.
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BTX
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Balanced Technology Extended (BTX) is an improved motherboard form factor.
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Buffered Memory
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A type of memory used on motherboards with a high number of RAM slots.
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CAPTCHA
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Completely Automated Public Turing Test To Tell Computers and Humans Apart (CAPTCHA) is a security program that protects Web sites against computers by generating and grading tests that humans can pass but current computers cannot.
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CCFL
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Cold-cathode fluorescent lamp (CCFL) is technology using light in LCD and flatbed scanners. This technology uses relatively little power.
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CD
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Compact disc (CD) was designed to replace vinyl records, but they soon became the primary method of long-term storage of music and data. CDs are optical disks which are encoded for a laser beam to scan, decode, and transmit to a computer monitor or television.
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CD-ROM
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Compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM). This is a read-only compact storage disk, used primarily for audio or video data.
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CD-RW
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Compact disc-rewritable (CD-RW) is a CD that allows for multiple read/writes.
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CDFS
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CD-ROM File System or Compact Disc File System (CDFS) is a protected-mode file system that monitors access to the contents of CD-ROM drives. It is also a designation used in UNIX computers to show that a file system is on a read-only removable medium.
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Chipset
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An integrated collection of chips, or controllers, which receive and control the binary and scan codes for incoming data from external devices.
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Clean Install
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An installation method in which Windows is installed onto a blank hard drive, ensuring that no application or system files from a previous installation will remain.
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Clock Multiplier
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A component of a CPU that multiplies the beat of the system crystal to increase the speed of the CPU in relation to the system clock.
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CMOS
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Complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) is pairs of metal oxide semiconductor field-effect transistors, one N-type and one P-type. Both are integrated on a single silicon chip. These are normally used for RAM.
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CNR
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Communications and networking riser (CNR) is a proprietary slot used on motherboards which provides sound interference-free connection for modems, sound cards, and NICs.
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Codec
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A software or hardware device which is responsible for the encoding and decoding of digital data.
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COM
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Communication port (COM) is a name kept by the MS-DOS operating system for serial communications ports.
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Conductor
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Any material which allows electrons to flow.
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Cookie
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A text file stored on a computer which stores data from Web sites. |
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CPU
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Central processing unit (CPU) is the device that interprets and executes instructions. |
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CRIMM
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Continuity Rambus inline memory module (CRIMM) is a device that is added to fill unused banks in a system that uses Rambus RIMMs.
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CRT
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Cathode-ray tube (CRT) is the medium in which rays of electrons travel to a phosphorescent screen to produce an image.
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DACL
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Discretionary access control list (DACL) is part of the security descriptor of an object that grants or denies specific users or groups permission to access the object. Sometimes referred to as DAC.
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DB-25
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An electrical connector with 25 pins. It is often referred to as a parallel port connector.
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DB-9
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An electrical connector with nine pins.
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DC
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Direct current (DC) is where the electrical current always flows in the same direction.
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DDoS
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Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) is an attack that comes from several computers that seek to terminate Web access by overwhelming another device with connection requests that cannot be completed.
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DDR
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Double Data Rate (DDR) increases data transfer rates by producing output on both the rising and falling of the system clock.
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DDR SDRAM
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Double Data Rate synchronous dynamic random access memory (DDR SDRAM) is a type of memory with a high transfer rate of 400 MHz, with a prefetch buffer depth of 2 bits. DDR RAM is seen as being outdated as it has been replaced by DDR2 SDRAm and DDR3 SDRAM.
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Decode
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To convert coded data into its original form.
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Default Gateway
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A routing device which is used to forward all traffic that is not addressed to a station within the local subnet.
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Defragmentation
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The process that rewrites parts of a file to contiguous sectors on a hard drive in order to increase access and retrieval time.
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DFS |
Distributed file system (DFS) is a management system of files which allows files to be located on multiple computers connected to a local or wide area network. |
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DHCP
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Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) is a protocol of TCP/IP that automatically assigns a temporary IP address when the host connects to the network.
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Dial-Up
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The slowest form of Internet access, which uses a public telephone connection, rather than a dedicated circuit or a type of private network.
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DIMM
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Dual inline memory module (DIMM) is a memory board comprised of RAM chips mounted on the circuit board.
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DIN Connector
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Deutsche Industrie Norm (DIN) connector is used to link components in personal computers. It is a multipin connector that conforms to the specification of the German national standard organization.
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DIP
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Dual inline package (DIP) is a standard of packaging integrated circuits where the microminiature electronic circuits are enclosed with a rectangular housing. It is designed to help in circuit board manufacturing.
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DirectX
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A Microsoft tool that allows graphic-intensive programs to talk directly to the hardware of a computer.
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Discovery
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The ability to see who is sharing files.
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DLP
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Digital Light Processing (DLP) is where a signal is sent from a computer to a DLP projector, it is then projected onto a screen by means of light reflected by thousands of tiny mirrors. Each mirror represents one pixel.
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DLT
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Digital linear tape (DLT) is a type of magnetic storage medium. It is used primarily to back up data. DLT allows for faster transfer of data.
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DMA
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Direct memory access (DMA) is memory access that does not use a microprocessor and is used to transfer data directly between memory and a peripheral device, like a hard drive.
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DMZ
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Demilitarized zone (DMZ) is a security protocol where a neutral zone is set up between a company network and a public network. This prevents outside users from getting direct access to a server.
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DNS
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Domain Name System (DNS) is a TCP/IP name resolution system that takes the host name and changes it into an IP address.
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DoS
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Denial of Service (DoS) is where a computerized assault tries to disrupt Web access.
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Dot Pitch
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The distance between two phosphors of the same color in a CRT monitor.
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DRAM
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Dynamic random access memory (DRAM) is a type of semiconductor random access memory. It stores information in integrated circuits.
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DSL
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Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) is digital communications technology that provides high-speed transmissions over standard telephone wiring.
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Duplexing
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A feature of RAID 1 in which each drive uses its own controller.
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DVD
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Digital video disc or digital versatile disc (DVD) is optical disc storage technology. Video, audio, and computer data can be encoded onto a compact disc.
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DVD-R
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Digital video disc-recordable (DVD-R) is a digital video disc which allows a consumer to record to the disc once.
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DVD-RAM
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Digital video disc-random access memory (DVD-RAM) is used for high-capacity data storage that can be repeatedly read, written, and erased.
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DVD-ROM
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Digital video disc read-only memory (DVD-ROM) is a computer-readable digital video disc.
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DVD-RW
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Digital video disc-rewritable (DVD-RW) is DVD media that is rewritable.
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DVI
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Digital Video Interface or Digital Visual Interface (DVI) is a connection designed for digital to digital connections.
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ECC
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Error-correction code or error-correcting code (ECC) is software that is designed to be embedded in a hard drive and continually scan drives for bad sectors.
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ECP
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Extended Capabilities Port or Enhanced Capabilities Port (ECP) is a protocol for bidirectional, high-speed communication between a computer and a printer or scanner.
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EEPROM
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Electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM) is used for long-term storage without electricity.
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EFS
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Encrypted File System (EFS) is a tool for encrypting in NTFS 5.
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EIDE
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Enhanced Integrated Drive Electronics (EIDE) is an enhanced version of IDE making drives larger than 528 MB, increasing drive throughput, and creating non-hard drive devices.
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Electricity
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Free electrons moving through a conductor.
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EMI
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Electromagnetic interference (EMI) is the disruption of operation of electronic devices when they are in the field of the electromagnet.
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EMP
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Electromagnetic pulse (EMP) is a burst of electromagnetic energy caused by rapid acceleration of charged particles.
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EPP
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Enhanced Parallel Port (EPP) is a high-speed port for peripheral devices, such as external drives.
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EPROM
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Erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM) is a nonvolatile memory chip that is programmed after manufacturing.
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ERD
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Emergency repair disc (ERD) is a repair tool for operating systems when there has been an error in installation or when a system has corrupted and missing files.
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ESD
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Electrostatic discharge (ESD) is static electricity that is discharged from an outside source into the circuitry of a computer often resulting in damage to the circuit.
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EVDO
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Evolution Data Optimized or Evolution Data Only (EVDO) is a 3G wireless radio data standard that allows for faster speeds.
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EVGA
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Extended Video Graphics Adapter/Array (EVGA) is an enhanced video graphics array which is capable of producing images up to 1600 x 1200 pixels and can have a palette up to 16.7 million colors.
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Execute
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The process responsible for adding, subtracting, and moving memory.
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Expansion Bus
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The area of the external data bus which connects the bridge, or memory controller chip, to all other individual components.
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FAT
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File allocation table (FAT) is a table that records how files on the hard drive are stored. There are two FATs just in case one is damaged or lost.
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FAT12
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12-bit file allocation table (FAT12) is a file allocation table that uses 12 bits for addressing clusters.
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FAT16
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16-bit file allocation table (FAT16) is a file allocation table that uses 16 bits for addressing clusters.
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FAT32
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32-bit file allocation table (FAT32) is a file allocation table that uses 32 bits for addressing clusters.
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FDD
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Floppy disk drive (FDD) is a device that uses electromagnetics to read data and write data to a floppy disk.
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Fn
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Function (Fn) is used primarily on laptops and mobile devices. It allows the user to change displays or audio settings quickly.
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Form Factor
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A set of standards used to ensure that motherboards and cases will be compatible.
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FPM
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Fast page mode (FPM) is a type of dynamic RAM that supports access to sequential memory locations with a reduced cycle time.
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FQDN
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Fully qualified domain name (FQDN) is part of the URL and identifies server programs that have been requested by an Internet address.
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Front-Side Bus
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The main data path that runs between the CPU and the RAM.
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FRU
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Field Replaceable Unit (FRU) is a part of the PC that is replaceable without taking the computer to a shop. The part can be replaced where the computer is.
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FSB
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Front-side bus (FSB) is a connector that connects with the CPU and connects to other components within the computer.
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FTP
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File Transfer Protocol (FTP) is a fast protocol used to copy files to and from remote computers by means of TCP/IP.
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GB
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Giga is a prefix for a given decimal quality, 10^9, or 1,000,000,000. It is also a prefix for a given binary quantity, 2^30, or 1,073,741,824. The binary quantity can also be represented by the prefix gibi. This makes a gigabyte either 1,000,000,000 bytes or 1,073,741,824 bytes (a gibibyte).
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GDI
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Graphical Device Interface (GDI) is a graphical display system used to display or print bitmapped text, images, and other graphic elements within an application.
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GHz
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Gigahertz (GHz) is a measurement of frequency equaling one billion cycles per second.
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GPS
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Global Positioning System (GPS) is a radio navigation system that uses 24 satellites to provide precise, continuous worldwide positioning.
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GSM
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Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) is digital cellular phone technology which allows users to have smart cards, browse the Web, and transfer data.
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GUI
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Graphical user interface (GUI) is an interactive visual computer environment that represents programs, files, and options with graphical images.
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HAL
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Hardware abstraction layer (HAL) is a layer in Windows operating systems in which assembly language code is isolated. It is used to write device-independent applications.
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Hard Drive
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A device which is the primary storage unit for a computer. It is responsible for keeping the operating system, applications, files, and data.
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HAV
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Hardware-assisted virtualization (HAV) enables the use of a virtual machine using help from the hardware capabilities.
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HCL
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Hardware compatibility list (HCL) is a list of a computers hardware which is compatible with an operating system.
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HDD
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Hard disk drive (HDD) is a data storage system that utilizes solid disks with magnetic material which turns at high speeds. This enables the storage and retrieval of programs and data in a computer.
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HDMI
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High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) is a multimedia connection that includes high-definition video and audio.
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Horizontal Refresh Rate
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The amount of time it takes for a CRT monitor to create one complete raster line.
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HPFS
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High Performance File System (HPFS) is a file system created for the OS/2 operating system which was created to make improvements to the FAT file system.
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HTML
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Hypertext Markup Language (HTML) is the markup language used to create documents in the World Wide Web.
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HTPC
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Home theater personal computer (HTPC) is a device that combines that capabilities of a PC with software applications that support video, photo, and music playback.
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HTTP
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Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP) is used for network transfers in the World Wide Web because it is so fast.
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Hyperthreading
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An Intel technology which allows for multiple threads to be run on a single pipeline.
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I/O
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Input/output (I/O) is a general term for information and data that is read or written to a computer. Input is data that comes from devices such as a keyboard to the computer. Output is when information is written to things like a disk or printing to a printer.
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ICMP
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Internet Control Message Protocol (ICMP) is a network layer Internet protocol which provides error correction and other information for IP packet processing.
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ICR
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Intelligent character recognition (ICR) is the way in which the computer is able to translate manually entered text characters to machine-readable characters.
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IDE
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Integrated Device Electronics (IDE) is specification for a PC for hard drives that are controlling electronics which speeds up transfer rates.
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IEEE
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Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) is one of the leading standard-setting groups in the Unites States.
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IIS |
Internet Information Server (IIS) is a brand of Web server software created by Microsoft. ISS uses HTTP to send documents. |
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IMAP
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Internet Message Access Protocol (IMAP) is used as a standard protocol for accessing e-mail from a local server.
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Insulator
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Any material which impedes the flow of electrons.
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Intel Centrino
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An entire package which includes the CPU and support chips.
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Interlacing
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The act of first sweeping odd-numbered raster lines then even-numbered raster lines in order to create a full screen.
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Inverter
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A device which converts DC power into AC power.
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IP
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Internet Protocol (IP) provides a common layer over dissimilar networks. This is then used to move packets among host computers.
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IPCONFIG
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Internet protocol configuration (IPCONFIG) is a command-line utility used by Windows servers to display current TCP/IP configuration of the machine.
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IPP
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Internet Printing Protocol (IPP) is the specification for transmitting documents to printers through the Internet.
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IPSec
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Internet Protocol Security (IPSec) is designed to secure packet exchanges at the IP layer. IPSec has two levels of security, the Authentication Header and the Encapsulated Security Protocol.
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IPX
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Internetwork Packet Exchange (IPX) is a protocol for Novell Netware. IPX manages addressing and routing of packets within and between the LANs.
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IPX/SPX
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Internetwork Packet Exchange/Sequenced Packet Exchange (IPX/SPX) is a protocol used by Novell Netware which, combined, corresponds to TCP and IP in the TCP/IP protocol suite.
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IR
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Infrared (IR) is a frequency in the electromagnetic spectrum in the range below red light.
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IrDA
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Infrared Data Association (IrDA) is the organization of various vendors who created the standards for infrared communication between computers and peripheral devices.
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IRQ
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Interrupt request (IRQ) is a hardware interrupt, which is identified by a number. The number indicates which interrupt handler will be used.
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ISA
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Industry Standard Architecture (ISA) is a bus which contains the specifications that allows components to be added as cards plugged into standard expansion slots in PCs.
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ISDN |
Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) uses existing telephone services for a high-speed digital communications network. |
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ISO |
International Organization for Standardization (ISO) is an international developer of voluntary standards.
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ISP
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Internet service provider (ISP) is a business that provides Internet access services to individuals, businesses, and other organizations.
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JBOD
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Just a bunch of disks (JBOD) is properly termed spanning. These disks have not been configured into a RAID, but if the user wants to use them as a single volume, they are then used in a JBOD.
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KB
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Kilo is a prefix for a given decimal quality, 10^3, or 1,000. It is also a prefix for a given binary quantity, 2^10, or 1,024. The binary quantity can also be represented by the prefix kibi. This makes a kilobyte either 1,000 bytes or 1,024 bytes (a kibibyte).
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LAN
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Local area network (LAN) is a network of computers and devices that are in a local area and are connected by a communication link enabling them to interact with the other devices on the network.
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Land Grid Array
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A method of attaching a socket to a CPU, where small pads, or lands, are attached to a CPU which lay against connectors on a socket.
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LBA
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Logical block addressing (LBA) is a process where the cylinder, head, and sector locations on a hard disk are converted to 24-bit addresses for data storage and retrieval.
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LC
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Lucent connector (LC) is a fiberoptic connector with a 1.25-mm ferrule.
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LCD
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Liquid crystal display (LCD) uses liquid crystals and electricity to produce images onto a screen.
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LDAP
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Lightweight Directory Access Protocol (LDAP) is a network designed to extract information from a hierarchical directory in TCP/IP stacks.
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LED
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Light-emitting diode (LED) is a semiconductor that converts electrical energy into light.
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Li-Ion
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Lithium ion (Li-Ion) is a battery used to store energy by conversion of chemicals to electrical energy in dry chemical cells.
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LPD/LPR
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Line Printer Daemon/Line Printer Remote (LPD/LPR) is a printer. This printer uses TCP/IP to establish connections between printers and workstations on a network.
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LPT
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Line print terminal or local print terminal (LPT) is a device name for a line printer. MS-DOS reserves this name for three parallel printer ports.
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LVD
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Low voltage differential (LVD) is a method of driving SCSI cables. LVD uses less power than current differential drive.
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MAC
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Media Access Control or Mandatory Access Control (MAC) manages access to the physical network of ISO/OSI data-link layer by delimiting frames and handling error control.
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Malware
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Malware
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MAPI
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Messaging application programming interface (MAPI) is an interface of Microsoft specifications which allows different messaging and workgroup applications to go through a single client.
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MAU
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Multistation Access Unit, Media Access Unit, or Media Attachment Unit (MAU) connects computers in a physical hub-and-spokes arrangement because it is a hub device in a token-ring network.
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MB
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Mega is a prefix for a given decimal quality, 10^6, or 1,000,000. It is also a prefix for a given binary quantity, 2^20, or 1,048,576. The binary quantity can also be represented by the prefix mebi. This makes a megabyte either 1,000,000 bytes or 1,048,576 bytes (a mebibyte).
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MBR
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Master Boot Record (MBR) is the first sector of the first hard drive. It is a critical element in the startup process.
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MBSA
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Microsoft Baseline Security Analyzer (MBSA) is software developed and used by Microsoft to check the security of an operating system by assessing missing security updates and less secure areas of the operating system.
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MFD
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Multifunction device (MFD) is a device that combines a printer, scanner, photocopier, and a fax machines.
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MFP
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Multifunction product or multifunction peripheral (MFP) is a device that combines a printer and fax into one device.
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MHz
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Megahertz (MHz) is a measurement of frequency equal to 1 million cycles per second.
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MicroDIMM
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Micro dual inline memory module (MicroDIMM) is used in laptops because it has 172 pins. It is part of SDRAM.
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MIDI
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Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) is a serial interface which allows for the connection of musical synthesizers, musical instruments, and computers.
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MIME
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Multipurpose Internet Mail Extensions (MIME) is a protocol that allows data like video, sound, and binary files to be transmitted by Internet e-mail without having to be translated into ASCII. The MIME expands upon SMTP.
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MIMO
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Multiple input multiple output (MIMO) is a feature of 802.11n devices. MIMO allows the simultaneous connection of up to four antennae.
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Mirroring
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A concept of RAID 1 in which two drives are used to create a file or disk redundancy.
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MMC
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Microsoft Management Console (MMC) is a means of managing a system. Administrators are able to customize management tools through snap-ins.
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MMX
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Multimedia Extensions (MMX) allows the CPU to handle many multimedia functions.
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Motherboard
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The main circuit board that carries the system buses.
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MP3
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Moving Picture Experts Group Audio Layer-3 (MP3) is a technology that takes high-quality digital audio files and compresses them so they are smaller but have the same sound quality.
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MP4
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Moving Picture Experts Group Layer-4 (MP4) is designed for videophones and multimedia applications. It provides a lower bandwidth of up to 64 Kbps.
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MPEG
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Moving Picture Experts Group (MPEG) is a standard for compressing video and audio files.
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Msconfig
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Microsoft System Configuration or Microsoft System Configuration Utility (Msconfig) enables users to configure a systems boot files and critical system files. Msconfig.exe is an executable file that runs the Windows System Configuration Utility.
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MSDS
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Material safety data sheet (MSDS) provides information about potential environmental hazards and information about the disposal methods of various PC components.
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MUI
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Multilingual user interface (MUI) is used in Windows OS, allowing for multiple languages to be used on a single interface.
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Multiple Cores Concept
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A single silicon chip that contains two CPUs.
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NAC
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Network Access Control (NAC) is network security that unifies endpoint security technology.
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NAS
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Network-Attached Storage (NAS) is a storage appliance which connects to a network. NAS has a storage unit with a built-in server, which communicates over a network.
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NAT
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Network Address Translation (NAT) is the process which converts IP addresses used in an intranet and Internet IP addresses.
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NetBEUI
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Network basic input/output system Extended User Interface (NetBEUI) uses token ring source routing. It is the extend version of NetBIOS. It is most often found in small, department-size LANs.
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NetBIOS
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Network basic input/output system (NetBIOS) is an API used on a LAN by application programs and is compatible with microcomputers running MS-DOS.
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NFS
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Network File System (NFS) is a file system which allows a user to access remote files as if they were local files.
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Nibble
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A four-bit aggregation.
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NIC
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Network interface card (NIC) is an expansion card used to provide access to a computer to the network.
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NiCad
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Nickel cadmium (NiCad) is a battery type which uses alkaline electrolytes and is rechargeable.
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NiMH
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Nickel metal hydride (NiMH) is a battery type which is a rechargeable battery and offers longer life and superior performance when compared to other nickel cadmium batteries.
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NLX
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Network Low Profile Extended (NLX) is a second form factor for slimline systems.
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NNTP
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Network News Transfer Protocol (NNTP) is used by news servers that enable newsgroups.
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Northbridge
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A bridge chip in a two-bridge set which connects directly to the front-side bus.
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NTFS
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NT file system (NTFS) provides an array of configuration options for access and security.
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Ntldr
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New technology loader (Ntldr) is able to see the Boot.ini configuration file for installed operating systems.
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NTP
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Network Time Protocol (NTP) is used to synchronize the system time on a computer to a server or other devices.
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OCR
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Optical character recognition (OCR) is when an electronic device examines printed paper, and determines patterns of dark and light, then translates shapes into computer text.
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OEM
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Original equipment manufacturer (OEM) is the original maker of a piece of equipment.
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OLED
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Organic Light-Emitting Diode (OLED) is a technology that produces a thin, lightweight digital display. A series of thin organic films is placed between two conductors so when a current is applied, a bright light is emitted.
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OS
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Operating system (OS) is the software that is designed to control hardware resources.
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PAN
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Personal area network (PAN) is created with Bluetooth technology. It links PCs and other peripheral devices into a small wireless network.
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Parity
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A collection of data across an array to achieve redundancy in RAID so lost data may be reconstructed.
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Parity Memory
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An outdated type of memory which contained an extra chip used to keep track of information in other RAM chips.
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Passive Cooling
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A type of cooling process which does not use a fan or other type of forced-air cooling.
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PATA
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Parallel Advanced Technology Attachment (PATA) is where the controller on a disk is integrated with the drive.
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PC
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Personal computer (PC) is a computer that contains a microprocessor and can execute a BIOS.
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PCI
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Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) is an architecture for the expansion bus which allows system components to be added to a computer.
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PCIe
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Peripheral Component Interconnect Express (PCIe) is a new version of PCI using lanes on the motherboard.
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PCIX
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Peripheral Component Interconnect Extended (PCIX) contains a 64-bit wide version which is an upgrade of PCI.
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PCL
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Printer Control Language (PCL) is a set of communication standards, developed by HP, and is used across most printer platforms.
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PCMCIA
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Personal Computer Memory Card International Association (PCMCIA) is a group of computer manufacturers that created PC Cards, which are standard for credit card-sized adapter cards.
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PDA
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Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) is a handheld computer.
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PGA
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Pin grid array (PGA) is the arrangement of a large number of pins extending from the bottom of the CPU.
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Phishing
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Any type of situation where an individual or application is posing as something it is not for the purpose of gaining personal information from a user.
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Phishing Filter
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A tool which protects personal information while viewing Web sites.
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PII
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Personally identifiable information (PII) is used for information security. The information can be used to uniquely identify an individual.
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PIN
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Personal identification number (PIN) is used to gain access to personal information via an electronic device, using a unique code number.
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Pixel
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A term used to describe a unit of color. For CRT monitors, a pixel contains a collection of triads in a rectangular shape. In LCD monitors, a pixel is a fixed rectangle containing red, green, and blue glass.
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PKI
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Public key infrastructure (PKI) is security architecture designed to provide an increased level of confidence for exchanging information over an insecure Internet.
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Plenum
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The space between a dropped ceiling and the actual ceiling, or the space between a raised floor and the actual floor.
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PnP
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Plug and play (PnP) allows a PC to automatically configure peripherals with all necessary system resources and ports.
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Pop-up Blocker
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A feature or application which disables any pop-up window while viewing a Web site.
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POP3
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Post Office Protocol 3 (POP3) is the current version used on TCP/IP networks for standards in Post Office Protocol.
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Port
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An interface on a computer in which a user can connect a device.
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POS
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Point of sale (POS) is literally the place in a store where the sale takes place.
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POST
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Power-on self test (POST) a set of schedules stored in the ROM that are able to test system components each time the computer is powered on.
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POTS
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Plain Old Telephone Service (POTS) is a basic dial-up connection to the public switch network.
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PPP
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Point-to-Point Protocol (PPP) is a data link used to transmit TCP/IP packets via dial-up telephone connections.
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PPTP
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Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol (PPTP) is an extension of PPP. It is used to support virtual private networks.
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Prefetch
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A component of the pipeline interfaces which uses the memory controller chip to get lines of code into the CPU.
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PRI
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Primary Rate Interference (PRI) is an ISDN transmission rate. PRI has two variations: Single BRI or Multiple BRI.
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PROM
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Programmable read-only memory (PROM) allows data to be written into a device with hardware.
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Proxy Server
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A computer that all connections of an application run through.
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PS/2
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Personal System/2 (PS/2) connector functions as either a 16-bit bus or a 32-bit bus for IBM PS/2 computers.
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PSTN
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Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) is the public telephone system.
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PSU
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Power supply unit (PSU) is a converter which changes AC to low-voltage DC power.
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PVC
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Permanent virtual circuit (PVC) a logical connection between two nodes on a packet-switching network.
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PXE
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Preboot Execution Environment (PXE) is technology supported by the BIOS which is used to boot a PC remotely.
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QoS
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Quality of service (QoS) is a set of standards that ensure quality performance when delivering or fixing systems.
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RAID
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Redundant array of independent (or inexpensive) disks (RAID) is data storage which uses a group of computer disk drives that function as a single storage unit.
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RAM
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Random access memory (RAM) is the most common type of computer memory used by programs to perform necessary tasks. RAM can be read and written by the CPU. This type of memory is volatile.
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RAS
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Remote access server or Remote Access Service (RAS) allows a user to gain remote access to the network server through Windows software.
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Raster Line
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The scanning pattern of parallel lines that form the display of an image projected on a CRT computer monitor.
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RDP
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Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) is a protocol which provides access to a graphical interface of another computer.
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RDRAM
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Rambus dynamic random access memory (RDRAM) a type of dynamic random access memory developed by Rambus, Inc. It can provide a 16-bit data path and have a bandwidth of 1.6 GB per second.
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Registration
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The process for signing up for updates and e-mails.
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RF
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Radio frequency (RF) corresponds by using the electromagnetic spectrum. Wavelengths vary between 30 kilometers and .3 millimeters.
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RFI
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Radio frequency interference (RFI) is noise in an electrical circuit that has been introduced by another device.
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RGB
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Red-green-blue (RGB) colors that are produced by emitting light on a video monitor. Different percentages of these colors create the desired colors.
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RIMM
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Rambus inline memory module (RIMM) was developed for high-bandwidth computer memory by Rambus and Intel.
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RIP
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Routing Information Protocol (RIP) defines the exchange of routing table information.
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RIS
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Remote Installation Services (RIS) are software services that allow remote installation of software.
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RISC
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Reduced Instruction Set Computer (RISC) is a computer based on a processor, or processors designed to perform a limited set of operations extremely quickly.
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RJ
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Registered Jack (RJ) is any of the RJ series of jacks used to provide interface to the public telephone network.
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RJ-11
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Registered Jack-11 (RJ-11) is an American connector type supporting up to six wires. RJ-11 is a standard connector used with telephones and facsimile machines.
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RJ-45
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Registered Jack-45 (RJ-45) is a connector type supporting up to eight wires. RJ-45 is a standard connector used with Ethernet cable and LAN jacks.
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RMA
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Return merchandise authorization or return material authorization (RMA) is a transaction whereby the recipient of a product arranges to return goods to the supplier to have the product repaired or replaced. The recipient may also receive a refund or credit for another product from the same retailer or corporation.
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ROM
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Read-only memory (ROM) is memory whose contents can be accessed and read but cannot be changed.
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RS-232 or RS-232C
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Recommended Standard 232 (RS-232) is a common interface standard used by early computers and industrial equipment. The standards led to manufacturers using this serial port standard to make uniform equipment connectors.
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RTC
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Real-time clock (RTC) is a circuit or device that generates a periodic signal used for timing or synchronizing signals.
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S/PDIF
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Sony/Philips Digital Interface Format (S/PDIF) is a digital audio interconnection standard.
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SAN
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Storage area network (SAN) is an architecture to attach remote computer data storage devices to servers so the devices appear as locally attached to the operating system.
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SAS
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Serial Attached SCSI (SAS) is a computer bus used to move data to and from computer storage devices such as hard drives and tape drives.
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SATA
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Serial Advanced Technology Attachment (SATA) is a computer bus interface for connecting host bus adapters to mass storage devices such as hard disk drives and optical drives.
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SC
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Subscription Channel (SC) is a channel or a conduit for sending information from a publisher to all users subscribed to the channel.
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SCP
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Secure Copy (SCP) is a method of protecting Web pages from unauthorized use and being copied.
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SCSI
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Small Computer System Interface (SCSI) is an interface controller that allows several peripherals to be connected to the same port on a computer.
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SCSI ID
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Small Computer System Interface Identification (SCSI ID) is an identifying number assigned to SCSI devices, this number usually begins with 0 and 1, and is then assigned to hard disks.
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SD Card
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Secure Digital card (SD card) is a flash memory card that provides storage for digital cameras, cell phones, and PDAs.
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SDRAM
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Synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM) is dynamic random access memory (DRAM) that has a synchronous interface.
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SEC
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Single Edge Connector (SEC) is a type of connector with pins on one side. A computer accesses data from one side at a time.
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Services
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Computer applications or programs which run in the background of an operating system to maintain proper computer functionality.
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SFC
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System File Checker (SFC) is a Microsoft program that scans files for version information to help maintain the systems integrity.
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SFF
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Small Form Factor (SFF) is an optical fiber connector and adapter that provide for two strands of fiber in a surface area similar to an unshielded twisted-pair plug and socket.
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SGRAM
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Synchronous graphics random access memory (SGRAM) is a type of random access memory that stores each bit of data in a separate capacitor within an integrated circuit.
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SIMM
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Single inline memory module (SIMM) is a miniature circuit board used in older computers to hold RAM.
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SLI
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Scalable Link Interface (SLI) is a graphic interface that supports multiple video cards. The display adapters work together for better performance and video output.
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SMART
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Self-monitoring analysis and reporting technology (SMART) is a feature that analyzes and predicts the health of hard disks.
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SMB
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Server Message Block (SMB) is a protocol developed to facilitate the sharing of files, printers, and other resources on a local network.
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SMTP
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Simple Mail Transfer Protocol (SMTP) is the mechanism by which an e-mail client program sends e-mail to an outgoing mail server, also called an SMTP server, for delivery to the intended e-mail address.
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SNMP
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Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) is a UDP-based network protocol, used mostly in network management systems to monitor network-attached devices for conditions that warrant administrative attention.
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SO-DIMM
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Small outline dual inline memory module (SO-DIMM) is a type of computer memory built using integrated circuits.
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SOHO
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Small Office/Home Office (SOHO) is a small computer network made up of few computers that may include a server. A SOHO has different requirements than a large network and domain.
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SP
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Service pack (SP) is a collection of updates, fixes, and/or enhancements to a software program delivered in the form of a single installable package.
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Spam
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Unsolicited e-mail sent to many users at once; it is the electrical equivalent of junk mail.
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SPGA
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Staggered pin grid array (SPGA) is a style of arranging pins on an integrated circuit package.
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SPX
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Sequenced Package Exchange (SPX) is an operating system by Novell, Inc.
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Spyware
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Any type of program that reports information about personal habits to a central authority.
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SRAM
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Static random access memory (SRAM) is memory which stores data in such a way that it requires no memory refresh cycle and has low power consumption.
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SSH
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Secure Shell (SSH) is a network protocol which allows a user to log into a remote machine user account securely.
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SSID
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Service Set Identifier (SSID) is the network name shared among all devices on a particular wireless network.
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SSL
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Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) is a computing protocol which ensures the security of data sent via the Internet by using encryption.
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ST
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Straight tip (ST) is a connector type that has a straight pin. These connectors are used by audiovisual equipment and communications networks.
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STP
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Shielded twisted-pair (STP) is a type of wiring in which two conductors are twisted together for the purposes of canceling out electromagnetic interference (EMI) from external sources.
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Subnet Mask
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A number assigned to machines within a network which have a common IP address routing prefix.
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SVGA
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Super Video Graphics Array (SVGA) is the display method most commonly associated with modern day computer monitors.
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SXGA
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Super Extended Graphics Array (SXGA) is a function used to define a specific display resolution.
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System Crystal
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A quartz oscillator which acts as the metronome for the system.
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TB
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Tera is a prefix for a given decimal quality, 10^12, or 1,000,000,000,000. It is also a prefix for a given binary quantity, 2^40, or 1,099,511,627,776. The binary quantity can also be represented by the prefix tebi. This makes a terabyte either 1,000,000,000,000 bytes or 1,099,511,627,776 bytes (a tebibyte).
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TCP
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Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) is a set of rules to exchange messages with other Internet points at the information packet level.
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TCP/IP
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Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) is the primary language that computers use to communicate with one another over the Internet.
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TDR
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Time-domain reflectometry (TDR) is a technique which is used for measuring the characteristic impedance of a printed circuit trace.
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Telnet
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A program which allows for remote access to another systems terminal.
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TFTP
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Trivial File Transfer Protocol (TFTP) is a protocol with the functionality of a very basic form of the File Transfer Protocol
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Thermal Compound
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A substance which has powerful heat conductive qualities, used to aid in the cooling of a CPU.
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Threads
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A process that is part of a larger process or program.
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TKIP
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Temporal Key Integrity Protocol (TKIP) is a wireless encryption protocol that periodically changes the encryption key, making it harder to decode.
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Toner
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A dry, powdery ink substance used in laser printers which is given a negative charge before being transferred onto paper.
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TPM
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Trusted Platform Module (TPM) is both the name of a published specification detailing a secure cryptoprocessor that can store cryptographic keys that protect information, as well as the general name of implementations of that specification, often called the TPM chip or TPM.
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Triad
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A group of red, green, and blue phosphors in a CRT monitor.
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Trojan Horse
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A program that is downloaded and looks harmless but contains something harmful to a computer system. Unlike a traditional virus, it cannot replicate itself.
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UAC
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User Account Control (UAC) is a security feature to restrict privileges granted to software to that of a user unless specifically promoted to administrator.
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UART
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Universal asynchronous receiver-transmitter (UART) was one of the first really successful integrated circuits. It makes PC serial communications possible and all of Brain Boxes Serial Devices (and almost all Bluetooth devices) contain a UART.
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UDF |
User-Defined Function (UDF) is a function provided by the user of a program or environment in a context where the usual assumption is that functions are built into the program or environment.
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UDP
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User Datagram Protocol (UDP) is used to provide fast data transfer between two IP endpoints, but it is not as reliable a method as TCP.
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Ultra DMA
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Ultra direct memory access (Ultra DMA or UDMA) is a data transfer standard between hard drives and motherboards.
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UNC
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Universal Naming Convention (UNC) is a standard for identifying servers, printers, and other resources in a network.
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Upgrade
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An installation method in which a product is replaced with a newer version of the same product.
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UPS
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Uninterruptible power supply (UPS) is a special type of power supply commonly found in the security industry.
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URL
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Uniform Resource Locator (URL) is the address of a Web page on the World Wide Web.
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USB
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Universal serial bus (USB) is a connection port which supports the connection of peripheral devices and computer/electrical devices.
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USMT
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User State Migration Tool (USMT) is a Microsoft command line utility program used to copy user files and settings from one Microsoft Windows computer to another.
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UTP
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Unshielded twisted-pair (UTP) is a cable medium with one or more pairs of twisted insulated copper conductors bound in a single sheath.
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UXGA
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Ultra Extended Graphics Array (UXGA) is a standard of video card graphics display with a resolution of 1600 x 1200.
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Vertical Refresh Rate
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The amount of time it takes for a CRT monitor to display one full screen.
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VESA
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Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA) is an international standards body for computer graphics founded in 1989 by NEC Home Electronics and eight other video display adapter manufacturers.
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VFAT
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Virtual File Allocation Table (VFAT) is a file system introduced with Windows 95. An enhancement of the FAT and FAT 32 file systems, VFAT allowed for long file names.
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VGA
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Video Graphics Adapter or Video Graphics Array (VGA) is a video standard for unlimited color reproduction.
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VM
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Virtual machine (VM) is a piece of software which allows operating systems to be run inside other operating systems.
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VoIP
|
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is the technology which allows users to send their voice over the Internet as a replacement for a traditional telephone.
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Volt
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The standard unit used to measure electrical pressure or force.
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VPN
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Virtual private network (VPN) is a software application that creates a secure connection between a public computer network and a private one.
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VRAM
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Video random access memory (VRAM) is a type of RAM used in computer display cards.
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WAN
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Wide area network (WAN) is a computer network that spans a wider area than a local area network does.
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WAP
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Wireless Application Protocol (WAP) is a set of protocols for connecting cellular phones and other radio devices to the Internet.
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WEP
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Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) is a deprecated security algorithm for IEEE 802.11 wireless networks.
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Wi-Fi
|
Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi) is used generically to refer to wireless local area network (IEEE 802.11) technology providing short-range, high data rate connections between mobile data devices and access points connected to a wired network.
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WINS
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Windows Internet Naming Service (WINS) is a name resolution service that resolves Windows networking computer names to IP addresses in a routed environment.
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WLAN
|
Wireless local area network (WLAN) is a short range radio network normally deployed in traffic hotspots such as airport lounges, hotels, and restaurants.
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WPA
|
Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) is a certification program developed by the Wi-Fi Alliance to indicate compliance with the security protocol created by the Wi-Fi Alliance to secure wireless computer networks.
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WUXGA
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Widescreen Ultra Extended Graphics Array (WUXGA) is a standard of video card graphics display with a resolution of 1920 x 1200 or 1920 x 1080.
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XGA
|
Extended Graphics Array (XGA) is used to define a specific display resolution.
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ZIF
|
Zero-insertion-force (ZIF) is a type of CPU socket allowing for replacement or upgrade of the processor on the motherboard.
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ZIP
|
Zig-zag Inline Package (ZIP) is a type of integrated circuit with inline pins that alternate positions. |
