Glossary

A

• Access Point (AP): A device that allows wireless devices to connect to a wired network via Wi-Fi. It serves as an interface between wireless clients and the network infrastructure.

B

• Bandwidth: The maximum rate at which data can be transferred over a network, typically measured in bits per second (bps). Higher bandwidth allows for faster data transmission.

• Bluetooth: A short-range wireless communication technology used for exchanging data between devices, such as mobile phones, computers, and headphones, typically over distances of up to 100 meters.

• BPS (Bits per Second): A unit of measurement for data transfer speed, indicating how many bits (binary digits) can be transmitted in one second.

C

• CAT5e/CAT6/CAT7: Categories of twisted pair cables used for Ethernet networks. Each category supports different maximum speeds and frequencies for data transmission.

• Client: A device or software that requests and receives services or resources from a server in a network.

• Cloud Computing: The delivery of computing services (e.g., servers, storage, databases, networking) over the internet, allowing users to access and store data and applications remotely.

• Cabling Infrastructure: The physical wiring system (such as copper or fiber optic cables) that supports data transmission in a network.

D

• DNS (Domain Name System): A system that translates human-readable domain names (e.g., www.example.com) into IP addresses, allowing browsers and other applications to access websites.

• DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol): A protocol used to automatically assign IP addresses to devices on a network, ensuring efficient network management and address allocation.

• DSL (Digital Subscriber Line): A high-speed internet connection that uses existing telephone lines for data transmission. DSL supports faster speeds than dial-up and is widely used for home broadband services.

E

• Ethernet: A widely used wired networking technology for local area networks (LANs). Ethernet cables (e.g., CAT5e, CAT6) connect devices to switches, routers, and other networking equipment.

• Edge Computing: A distributed computing model where data processing is done closer to the data source or user, rather than in a centralized cloud data center, to reduce latency and improve performance.

F

• Firewall: A network security device or software that monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules. It serves as a barrier between trusted internal networks and untrusted external networks.

• Fiber Optic Cable: A high-speed data transmission medium made from glass or plastic fibers, which transmit data as light signals. Fiber optics offer high bandwidth and long-distance communication with low signal loss.

G

• Gigabit Ethernet: A high-speed Ethernet standard that supports data transfer rates of 1 gigabit per second (Gbps), often used in business and enterprise networks.

• Gateway: A network device that connects two different networks and acts as an entry point for data to pass between them, typically with functions like routing, firewall, or data translation.

H

• Hub: A simple network device that connects multiple devices in a network, transmitting data to all connected devices. Hubs are less efficient than switches, as they send data to all ports, regardless of the destination.

• HTTP (HyperText Transfer Protocol): A protocol used for transferring data over the web, enabling communication between web browsers and web servers.

I

• IP Address (Internet Protocol Address): A unique numerical identifier assigned to each device connected to a network, allowing them to communicate with one another. It can be IPv4 (32-bit) or IPv6 (128-bit).

• Internet of Things (IoT): The network of physical devices embedded with sensors, software, and other technologies, enabling them to connect and exchange data over the internet.

• Infrared (IR): A wireless communication technology that uses infrared light to transmit data between devices, typically over short distances, such as in remote controls or point-of-sale devices.

J

• Jitter: The variation in the delay of received data packets over a network. High jitter can negatively impact real-time communications like VoIP or video conferencing.

L

• LAN (Local Area Network): A network of computers and devices connected within a small geographical area, such as a home, office, or campus. LANs typically use Ethernet or Wi-Fi for communication.

• Link Aggregation: The combining of multiple network connections (such as Ethernet cables) into a single logical link to increase bandwidth, improve redundancy, and enhance network performance. This is often used in switches and routers to provide faster and more reliable data transmission. 

• LTE (Long-Term Evolution): A standard for wireless broadband communication, offering high-speed mobile data and voice services for smartphones and other devices.

M

• MAC Address (Media Access Control Address): A unique hardware identifier assigned to a network interface card (NIC) in a device. It is used to identify devices on a local network.

• Mesh Network: A network topology where devices (nodes) connect to one another, creating multiple paths for data to travel, enhancing reliability and performance.

• Modem (Modulator-Demodulator): A device that modulates digital data into analog signals for transmission over phone lines and demodulates incoming analog signals back into digital form.

N

• NAT (Network Address Translation): A technique used in routers to modify IP address information in packet headers, allowing multiple devices in a local network to share a single public IP address.

• NAS (Network Attached Storage): A data storage device that connects to a network and allows multiple users or devices to access and share files over the network.

• Network Switch: A network device that connects devices within a LAN and uses MAC addresses to forward data to the correct destination port, reducing network traffic compared to hubs.

P

• PoE (Power over Ethernet): A technology that allows Ethernet cables to deliver both data and electrical power to devices, such as IP cameras, phones, and wireless access points, eliminating the need for separate power cables.

• Packet: A small unit of data transmitted over a network. Each packet contains both data and control information, such as source and destination addresses.

• Ping: A network utility used to test the reachability of a device on a network and measure the round-trip time for data packets.

R

• Router: A network device that forwards data packets between different networks, such as between a local network (LAN) and the internet (WAN). Routers manage traffic and determine the best path for data transmission.

• RFI (Radio Frequency Interference): Disturbance caused by external electromagnetic signals that interfere with network performance, especially in wireless communication.

• RFID (Radio Frequency Identification): A technology that uses radio waves to identify objects or people remotely, often used in inventory management, access control, and tracking systems.

S

• Switch: A network device that forwards data based on MAC addresses. Unlike hubs, switches can efficiently direct traffic only to the device it’s intended for, reducing network collisions.

• SSID (Service Set Identifier): The name assigned to a wireless network, allowing devices to identify and connect to it. Multiple SSIDs can exist on the same wireless access point to support different networks or security settings.

• SSL (Secure Sockets Layer): A security protocol used to establish encrypted connections over the internet, ensuring privacy and data integrity for online transactions and communications.

T

• TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol): A suite of communication protocols that governs the structure of data transmission over the internet. TCP ensures reliable transmission, while IP addresses and routes data packets.

• Topology: The physical or logical arrangement of devices and cables in a network, such as bus, ring, star, or mesh topologies.

• Trunking: A technique used in networking where multiple network connections are bundled together to increase the bandwidth between two network devices, such as switches or routers.

W

• WAN (Wide Area Network): A large network that spans a broad geographical area, often connecting multiple LANs. The internet is the largest example of a WAN.

• Wi-Fi: A popular wireless communication standard used to connect devices to a local network without physical cables, using radio waves in the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands.

• WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access): A security protocol designed to protect wireless networks by encrypting data and providing authentication mechanisms to prevent unauthorized access.

Z

• Zigbee: A wireless communication protocol used for low-power, low-data rate applications, often found in home automation and IoT devices.

A

• Application: Software designed to perform a group of coordinated functions, tasks, or activities for the user (e.g., word processors, web browsers).

B

• BIOS (Basic Input/Output System): Firmware that initializes hardware and allows communication between the operating system and the components during boot.

• Blu-ray: An optical disc storage format designed to store high-definition video and data. It typically holds 25 GB on a single-layer disc and 50 GB on a dual-layer disc, making it suitable for HD movies and high-capacity data storage. 

• Bluetooth: A short-range wireless technology used to connect peripherals like keyboards, mice, and headphones to a computer.

C

• CD (Compact Disc): An optical storage medium used to store digital data, such as music, software, or files. It holds up to 700 MB of data and is read by a laser in a CD drive. 

• CPU (Central Processing Unit): The main processing component of a computer responsible for executing instructions.

D

• Docking Station: A device that expands a laptop’s connectivity by providing additional ports like USB, HDMI, Ethernet, etc.

• DVD (Digital Versatile Disc): An optical storage medium used to store large amounts of digital data, including video, audio, and software. It typically holds 4.7 GB of data, making it ideal for movies and larger files. 

E

• Ethernet: A wired networking technology for local area networks (LAN), offering reliable high-speed internet.

• External Hard Drive: A portable storage device that connects to a computer via USB, used for extra storage or backups.

F

• Firewall: A security system that monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic based on security rules.

• Flash Drive (USB flash drive or thumb drive): A portable storage device that uses flash memory to store data. It connects to a computer or other devices via a USB port, allowing for easy transfer and storage of files. 

• Floppy Disk: A magnetic storage medium used to store and transfer small amounts of data. It consists of a thin, flexible disk encased in a square plastic cover.

G

• GPU (Graphics Processing Unit): A processor specialized in rendering graphics and video, essential for tasks like gaming and video editing.

H

• HDD (Hard Disk Drive): A traditional storage device that uses spinning disks to read/write data, offering large capacity but slower performance than SSDs.

• HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface): A standard interface for transmitting video and audio to monitors, TVs, or projectors.

I

• IP Address (Internet Protocol Address): A unique identifier assigned to devices connected to a network for communication purposes.

K

• Keyboard: A peripheral input device used for typing and sending commands to a computer.

L

• LAN (Local Area Network): A network that connects computers and devices within a limited area such as a home or office.

M

• Microphone: A device that converts sound waves into electrical signals, allowing the capture of audio for recording, communication, or input to a computer or other device. 

• Motherboard: The main circuit board that connects the CPU, RAM, storage, and peripherals, acting as the communication hub.

• Modem: A device that connects a computer to the internet by converting digital data into a transmission format.

• Monitor: A display screen used to view output from a computer.

• Mouse: Used to navigate the screen and select items.

N

• Network Adapter: A hardware component that allows a computer to connect to a network, either wirelessly or via Ethernet.

O

• Operating System (OS): The software that manages hardware resources and provides services for applications. Examples include Windows, macOS, and Linux.

• Optical Drive: A device that reads and writes data from optical discs, such as CDs, DVDs, or Blu-rays, using a laser. It is commonly used for playing media, installing software, or storing data. 

P

• Peripheral: An external device connected to a computer, such as a printer, scanner, or keyboard.

• Power Supply Unit (PSU): The component that converts electrical power from the outlet into usable power for the internal components of a computer.

• Printer: A device that produces physical copies of digital documents, images, or graphics by transferring ink or toner onto paper. It is commonly used for creating hard copies from computers or other devices. 

• Projector: Displays images and videos on a large screen.

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R

• RAM (Random Access Memory): A type of temporary storage that a computer uses to store data that is currently being used or processed.

• Router: A device that forwards data between different networks, allowing devices to communicate over the internet.

S

• Scanner: A peripheral device that captures images or text from physical documents and converts them into a digital format.

• Solid State Drive (SSD): A fast, non-mechanical storage device that uses flash memory to store data persistently.

• Speaker: A peripheral used to produce sound output from the computer.

T

• Trackpad: A touch-sensitive surface used as a pointing device, typically found on laptops.

• Touch Screen: A display that allows users to interact directly with what is shown on the screen by touching it with a finger or stylus, instead of using a mouse or keyboard. 

U

• USB (Universal Serial Bus): A standard for connecting peripherals like keyboards, mice, printers, and external drives to a computer.

V

• VPN (Virtual Private Network): A service that encrypts internet connections to secure data and protect privacy online.

W

• Wi-Fi: A wireless networking technology that allows computers and devices to connect to the internet without cables.

• Webcam: A camera used for capturing video, commonly used in video calls or streaming.

A

• Amplifier: A device that increases the power of an electrical signal, making it loud enough to drive speakers or headphones.

• Audio Interface: A device that converts analog audio signals (like from a microphone or guitar) into digital signals that a computer can process, and vice versa.

• Audio Mixer: A device used to combine and control multiple audio sources, adjusting their levels, panning, and effects.

C

• Cable: A conductor used to transmit electrical signals.

• Codec: An algorithm that compresses or decompresses digital audio data to reduce file size or improve transmission efficiency.

• Condenser Microphone: A microphone that uses a capacitor to convert sound waves into electrical signals. They are known for their sensitivity and clarity.

• Connector: A device used to connect cables to other components.

D

• Display: A device that shows visual information, such as a TV, computer monitor, or projector.

• Dynamic Microphone: A microphone that uses a moving coil and magnetic field to convert sound waves into electrical signals. They are known for their durability and ability to handle high sound pressure levels.

E

• Editing Software: Software used to manipulate and combine video clips, add effects, and create finished videos. 

• Equalizer: A device or software that allows you to adjust the frequency response of audio signals, boosting or cutting certain frequencies. 

F

• Frame Rate: The number of frames of video captured or displayed per second. 

G

• Graphics Card: A component in a computer that processes and displays visual information.

H

• Headphones: A device that converts electrical signals into sound waves and delivers them directly to the ears.

L

• Lens: A piece of glass or other transparent material used to focus light. 

• Loudspeaker: A device that converts electrical signals into sound waves and projects them into the surrounding environment. 

M

• Microphone: A device that converts sound waves into electrical signals.

• Monitor: See Display

P

• Power Supply: A device that provides electrical power to other components.

• Preamplifier: A device that amplifies a signal before it is sent to a main amplifier. 

• Projector: A device that projects images and videos onto a screen. 

R

• Resolution: The number of pixels in an image or video. 

S

• Sound Card: A component in a computer that handles audio input and output.

• Speaker: A device that converts electrical signals into sound waves.

V

• Video Capture Card: A device that captures video from external sources and converts it into a digital format.

• Video Editor: Software used to edit and manipulate video footage.

A

• Access Card: A physical card (e.g., magnetic stripe, proximity, smart card) used to grant access to a restricted area.

• Analog Camera: A camera that captures images using film or videotape. 

B

• Biometric Reader: A device that scans a person's physical characteristics (e.g., fingerprint, iris, face) for identification and access control.

• Bullet Camera: A type of security camera known for their compact, cylindrical shape and long-range capabilities. They are typically used in outdoor environments due to their weather-resistant construction and ability to cover large areas. 

• Balun: A short form of "balanced-to-unbalanced transformer." It's an electronic component used to convert between balanced and unbalanced signal transmission. 

C

• Camera: A device that captures images or video.

• CCTV Camera: A closed-circuit television camera used to monitor and record activities. 

• Coaxial Cable: A type of cable used to transmit electrical signals, particularly radio frequency (RF) signals. The cable consists of a central conductor surrounded by an insulating layer and then a braided outer conductor. 

D

• Door Access Controller: A device that manages access to doors based on authorization information.

• DVR (Digital Video Recorder): A device that records video from CCTV cameras. 

• Dome Camera: A type of security camera characterized by their hemispherical or dome-shaped housing. This design provides a wide field of view and protects the camera's internal components from damage. Dome cameras are commonly used in indoor environments, such as stores, offices, and public spaces. 

I

• IP Camera: A network-connected camera that transmits video and data over a network. 

N

• NVR (Network Video Recorder): A network-connected device that records video from IP cameras. 

P

• Proximity Reader: A device that detects the presence of a proximity card or tag.

• PTZ Camera: A pan-tilt-zoom camera that can be controlled to view different areas. 

T

• Turnstile: A gated passageway that controls access to a restricted area.

• Turret Camera: a type of security camera characterized by their cylindrical or turret-shaped housing. This design provides a 360-degree field of view, allowing the camera to monitor a large area without blind spots. Turret cameras are often used in outdoor environments, such as parking lots, warehouses, and large open spaces.