Here are some common definitions of internet access terms.
Adsl – Stands for asymmetric digital subscriber line. The definition is a method of transferring data over the phone line faster than the old analog way over copper wires.
Bandwidth- volume of information sent through a connection.
Broadband-refers to the various types of high speed internet connections.
Bps- bits per second- measurement of speed
Cable internet- internet access obtained by the same cable used for cable television.
Dsl- digital subscriber line. The definition is a means of connecting to the internet in a digital manner. It’s a continuous connection to the internet that doesn’t hog the phone line.
Dslam- digital subscriber line access multiplexer- provider device that takes many adsl lines and concentrates them to one atm line.
Encryption- turning data into code to send over a network so unauthorized users would not be able to view it.
Fiber optic cable- A cable that allows for light impulses to be sent over a cable by means of tiny glass fibers.
Firewall- a means to protect your computer to be accessed by hackers.
Hdsl- high data rate digital subscriber line-The definition is the bandwidth speed that is the same for both downloading and uploading.
Isp- Internet service provider- A company that provides internet connection to a consumer.
Kbps- kilobits per second- measurement of speed
Lan- Local area network- The definition is the local network for 2 computers.
Modem- a device that enables your computer to be able to access the speeds necessary to obtain internet access.
Mbps- megabits per second- measurement of speed
Pots- Plain old telephone service- The definition is the basic way telephone is used all over the world.
Protocol- rules two computers must follow to exchange messages.
Satellite internet- internet that can be accessed by use of satellite dishes.
Radsl- Rate adaptive adsl service-A service that tests the digital line at startup and adapts the speed to the fastest that it can handle.
Sdsl- symmetric digital subscriber line- provides 1.5 mbps speed in both directions on a single pair on a digital line less than 8,000 feet.
Vadsl- very high speed adsl- The definition is the highest possible speed allowed for connection access.
Vpn- virtual private network- a network of solutions that enables data to be sent through the internet in an encoded way so it can’t be seen by others.
Wan- wide area network- The definition is a private network facility offered by phone companies.
Wi-fi- wireless fidelity- the means of using wireless access.
These are just some terms you may come across in learning about broadband and internet service providers.