Acronym definitions Flashcards
AC - Alternating Current
Flow of electrons alternating directions
ACL - Access Control List
the permissions attached to or configured on a network resource, such as a folder, file or firewall. Specifies which subjects are allowed or denied access and the privileges given over the object.
ACPI - Advanced Configuration Power Interface
An open standard to communicate between the operating system and hardware to enable power management features.
ADF - Automatic Document Feeder
device that feeds media automatically in to a scanner or printer
ADSL - Asymmetrical Digital Subscriber Line
provides a fast downlink but a slow uplink
AES - Advanced Encryption Standard
provides symmetric encryption - the same key is used to encrypt and decrypt
AHCI - Advanced Host Controller Interface
a logical interface used by SATA drives to communicate with the bus
AP - Access Point
provides connectivity between wireless devices and a cabled network; often referred to as hotspots
APIPA - Automatic Private Internet Protocol Addressing
windows clients configured to obtain an address automatically . The host randomly selects an address from the range 169.254.x.y.
ARP - Address resolution Protocol
when two systems communicate using IP, an IP address is used to identify the destination machine. Performs the task of resolving an IP address to a hardware address (MAC address)
ATA - Advanced Technology Attachment
originally introduced in 1984; hard drive standards defining both the older parallel (PATA) and the modern S (Serial) ATA drives.
ATAPI - Advanced Technology Attachment Packet Interface
Series of standards that enables mass storage devices other than hard drives to use the IDE/ATA controllers. Popular with optical drives
ATM - Asynchronous Transfer Mode
a set of high-speed data transmissions protocol
ATX - Advanced Technology Extended
Popular motherboard form factor that generally replaced the AT form factor
AUP - Acceptable Use Policy
Defines what actions employees many or may not perform on company equipment. This policy defines the handling of passwords, e-mail, and many other issues
A/V - Audio/Visual
Pertaining to the recording and reproduction of sounds and pictures
BD-R : Blu ray Disc-Recordable
blu-ray disc format that enables writing data to blank discs
BIOS - Basic Input Output System
Firmware that directly controls a particular piece of hardware
BD-RE: Blu-ray disc Rewritable
allows writing and REwriting several times on the same BD
BNC - Bayonet Neill-Concelman
uncommon coax connector secured with a quarter twist
BSoD - Blue Screen of Death
Infamous error screen that appears when Windows encounters an unrecoverable error
BYOD - Bring Your Own Device
in some IT Departments employees are permitted to use their own phone or other mobile devices instead of company-issues ones
CAD - Computer-Aided Design
design workstation
CAPTCHA - Completely Automated Public Turing Test to tell Computers & Humans Apart
Authentication challenge
CD - Compact Disc
useful for long-term storage of music and data; optical media
CD-ROM - Compact Disc-Read Only Memory
Read-only compact storage disc for audio or video data
CD-RW - Compact Disc Rewritable
CD Tech that accepts multiple reads/writes like a hard drive
CDFS - Compact Disc File System
generic name for ISO-9660. File structure, rules, and conventions used when organizing and storing files and data on a CD
CFS - Central File System or Common File System or Command File System
method to unify all storage devices within a network or organization to facilitate a single management point and to provide user access to any file or data within the organization
CIFS - Common Internet File System
a dialect of the Server Message Block (SMB) protocol. Currently depreciated but still widely supported
CMOS - Complementary Metal - Oxide Semiconductor
originally computer systems had a stand alone CMOS chip - a tiny bit RAM hooked up to a small batter that enabled it to hold system settings for the BIOS firmware even with the computer off. This has long since been incorporated in to the chipset. CMOS is informally used to refer to the CMOS setup program or system setup utility
CNR - Communications and Networking Riser
Proprietary slot used on some motherboards (MOBO) to provide a connection for modems, sound cards, and NICS (network interface cards) that is free from sound interference
COMx - Communication port (X=Port Number)
Serial communications ports once common on computers. COMx is used to designate a uniquely numbered COM port such as COM1 or COM2, etc
COMx - Communication port (X=Port Number)
Serial communications ports once common on computers. COMx is used to designate a uniquely numbered COM port such as COM1 or COM2, etc
CPU - Central Processing Unit
Processor
CPU - Central Processing Unit
Processor
CRT - Cathode-Ray Tube
In short, a Monitor that uses CRT rather than LCD. tube of a monitor in which rays of electrons are beamed onto a phosphorescent screen to produce images
DaaS - Data as a Service
attached service
DAC - Discretionary Access Control
authorization method based on the idea that there is an owner of a resource who may at his or her discretion assign access to that resource.
DB-25-Serial Communications D-Shell Connector
25 PINS, D-shaped connectors once used for a variety of connections in the PC and networking world. Can be male with prongs or female with holes and have a varying number of pins or sockets. Also called D-Shell connectors.
DB-9 - Serial Communications D-Shell Connector
9 Pins . A 2 row DB Connector (male) used to connect the computer’s serial port to a serial-communication device such as a modem or a console port on a managed switch.
DDos - Distributed Denial of Service
a denial-of-service attack conducted thru a large set of attackers at widely distributed locations
DC - Direct Current
type of electricity in which the flow of electrons is in a complete circle in one direction
DDR - Double Data Rate
A type of memory that sends and receives data twice every clock cycle, and therefore is capable of twice the data transfer rate of standard SD (synchronous dynamic) RAM
DFS - Distributed File System
a storage environment where shared files are accessed from storage devices within multiple servers, clients and peer hosts.
DDR - Double Data Rate/DDR RAM - Double Data Rate Random Access Memory
A type of memory that sends and receives data twice every clock cycle, and therefore is capable of twice the data transfer rate of standard SD (synchronous dynamic) RAM
DHCP - Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol
Protocol that enables client hosts to request and receive TCP/IP settings automatically from an appropriately configured server. *Uses UDP ports 67 and 68
DIMM - Dual Inline Memory Module
32 or 34 bit type of DRAM packaging with the distinction that each side of each tab inserted into the system performs a separate function. DIMMs come in a variety of sizes: with 184-, 240-, and 288-pin being the most common on desktop computers
DLT - Digital Linear Tape
high-speed, magnetic tape storage technology used to archive and retrieve data from faster, online media such as hard disks
DLP - Digital Light Processing or Data Loss Prevention
Digital Light Processing - display tech that reflects and directs light onto a display surface using micromechanically operated mirrors. *Data Loss Prevention - system or set of rules designed to stop leakage of sensitive information. Usually applied to internet appliances to monitor outgoing network traffic
DMA - Direct Memory Access
technique that some PC hardware devices use to transfer data to and from the memory without using the CPU
DMZ - Demilitarized Zone
A lightly protected or unprotected subnet network positioned between an outer firewall and an organization’s highly protected internal network. Used mainly to host public address servers (such as Web servers)
DNS - Domain Name Server
TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol) name resolution system that translates a host name in an IP Address. Uses UDP (Uniform Demand Protocol) Port 53
DoS - Denial of Service
an attack on a computer resource that prevents it from performing its normal operations, usually by overwhelming it with large numbers of requests in an effort to monopolize its resources
DRAM - Dynamic Random Access Memory
Memory used to store data in most personal computers. DRAM stores each bit in a “cell” composed of a transistor and a capacitor. **Because the Capacitor in a DRAM cell can only hold a charge for a few milli-seconds DRAM must be continually refreshed, or Re-written, to retain its data
DRM - Digital Rights Management
Code schemes for enforcing what users can and can’t do with commercial software or digital medial files.
DSL - Digital Subscriber Line
high-speed internet connection tech that uses a regular telephone line for connectivity.
DSL - Digital Subscriber Line
high-speed internet connection tech that uses a regular telephone line for connectivity. DSL comes in several varieties, including Asymmetric (ADSL) and Symmetric (SDSL) and many speeds. Typical home-user DSL connection is ADSL with faster download speeds and slower upload speeds.
DVD - Digital Versatile Disc
Optical Disc Format that provides for 4-17 GB of video or data storage
DVD-ROM - Digital Versatile Disc - Read Only Memory
Equivalent of the standard CD-ROM
DVI - Digital Visual Interface
special video connector designed for digital-to-digital connections; most commonly seen on PC video cards and LCD monitors. Some versions also support analog signals with a special adapter.
DVI-D - Digital Visual Interface - Digital
Starting to become more obsolete due to HDMI
ECC - Error Correcting Code
Special Software, embedded on hard drives that constantly scans the drives for bad blocks.
EFS - Encrypting File System
storage organization and management service, such as NTFS (New Technology File System) that has the capability of applying a cipher process to the stored data
EIDE - Enhanced Integrated Drive Electronics
marketing concept of hard drive-maker Western Digital, encompassing 4 improvements for IDE drives, including drives larger than 528 MB, four devices, increase in drive throughput and non-hard drive devices.
EMI - Electromagnetic Pulse
Potentially damaging burst of electromagnetic energy caused by events such as electrostatic discharge (ESD) lightening, Nuclear detonations, etc..
EPROM - ERASABLE Programmable Read-Only Memory
a type of memory chip that can be programmed electrically and erased by exposure to ultraviolet light
ERD - Emergency Repair Disc
saves critical boot files and partition info and is the main tool for fixing boot problems in older versions of Windows. Newer versions of Windows call this a system repair disc (Windows 7) or recovery drive (Windows 8/8.1 and 10).
eSATA - External Serial Advance Technology Attachment
Serial ATA-based connector for external hard drives and optical drives.
ESD - Electrostatic Discharge
Uncontrolled rush of electrons from one object to another. A real menace to PCs, as it can cause permanent damage to semiconductors!!
EULA - End User Licensure Agreement
change management step that entails educating and training users about what has changed and how to use any new systems, devices OR features
EMP - Electromagnetic Pulse
Potentially damaging burst of electromagnetic energy caused by events such as electrostatic discharge (ESD) lightening, Nuclear detonations, etc..
EULA - End User Licensure Agreement
Agreement that accompanies a piece of software, to which the user must agree before using the software. Outlines the terms of use for the software and also lists any actions on the part of the user that violate the agreement.
*EMI - Electromagnetic Interface
electrical interference from one device to another, resulting in poor performance of the device being interfered with. Examples: Static on your TV while running a blow dryer, or placing two monitors too close together and getting a “shaky” screen
exFAT - Extended File Allocation Table
a microsoft - proprietary file system that breaks the 4 GB file size barrier, supporting files up to 16-exabytes (EB) and a theoretical partition limit of 64-zetabytes. Envisioned for use with flash media devices with a capacity of or exceeding 2 TB.
FAT - File Allocation Table
Hidden table that records how files on a hard disk are stored in distinct clusters; the only way DOS (Disk Operating System) knows where to access files. There are two FATs, mirror images of one another in case one is destroyed or damaged.
FAT32 - 32-bit File Allocation Table
File allocation table that uses 32-bits to address and index clusters. Commonly used with USB Flash - media drives and versions of Windows prior to XP.
FSB - Front Side Bus
On older PC architectures the wires that connect the CPU to its external memory outlet. The part of a computer MOBO that allows the computer’s processor to communicate with the RAM and the other components on the MOBO. Also the part of a bus where the driver sits.
FTP - File Transfer Protocol
Rules that enable two computers to talk to one another during a file transfer. Protocol used when you transfer a file from one computer to another across the Internet. FTP uses ports 20 & 21
FQDN - Fully Qualified Domain Name
A Complete, bottom-to-top label of a DNS (Domain Name Service) host going from the specific host to the top-level domain that holds it and all of the intervening domain layers, each layer being separated by a dot. Ex: mail.totalseminars.com
GDDR - Graphics Double Data Rate
Found on high performance video cards
GDI - Graphics Device Interface
Component of Windows that utilizes the CPU rather than the printer to process a print job as a bitmapped image of each page.
GUI - Graphic User Interface
Interface that enables user to interact with the computer graphically, by using a mouse or other pointing device to manipulate icons that represent programs or documents, instead of using only text as in early interfaces. **Pronounced “GOOEY”
GUID - Globally Unique Identifier
a 128-bit number used by Microsoft Windows to identify a user , software component, or other entity
GPS - Global Positioning System
Tech that enables a mobile device to determine where you are on a map.
GPT - GUID Partition Table
Partitioning scheme that enables you to create more than four primary partitions without needing to use dynamic disks.
GPU - Graphics Processing Unit
Specialized processor that helps the CPU by taking over all of the 3-D rendering duties.
HAL - Hardware Abstraction Layer
Part of the Windows OS that separates system-specific device drivers from the rest of the OS.
HAV - Hardware Assisted Virtualization
processor features that speed up and simplify virtualization. Required for some hypervisors to function. (Hypervisor - software that enables a single computer to run multiple operating systems simultaneously).
HDD - Hard Disk Drive
Data - recording system using solid disks of magnetic material turning at high speeds to store and retrieve programs and data in a computer.
HDMI - High Definition Media Interface
single multimedia connection that includes both high-definition video and audio. Used to connect a computer to LCDs, projectors and VR headsets
HTML - Hypertext Markup Language
script-like language for creating hypertext documents such as those on the World Wide Web. To Publish information on the Internet.
HTPC - Home Theater PC
A home theatre PC designed to attach to a TV or projector for movie and TV viewing.
HTTP - Hypertext Transfer Protocol
Extremely fast protocol used for network file transfers in the WWW. environment. Uses PORT 80
HTTPs - Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure
(Over secure Sockets layer) Secure form of HTTP used commonly for Internet business transactions or any time when a secure connection is required. USES PORT 443
I/O - Input/Output
General term for reading and writing data to a computer. “Input” includes data entered from a keyboard, identified by a pointing device (such as a mouse) or loaded from a disk. “Output” includes writing information to a disk, viewing it on a monitor, or printing it to a computer.
IaaS - Infrastructure as a Service
Cloud-hosted provider of virtualized servers and networks
IDE - Integrated Drive Electronics
PC specification for small-to-medium sized hard drives in which the controlling electronics for the drive are part of the drive itself, speeding up transfer rates and leaving only a simple adapter or paddle. IDE only supported two drives per system of no more than 504 MB each, and has been completely supplanted by Enhanced IDE (EIDE) which supports four drives of over 8 GB each and more than doubles the transfer rate
IDS - Intrusion Detection System
application that inspects packets, looking for active intrusions. Functions inside the network, looking for threats a firewall might miss, such as viruses, illegal log-on attempts, and other well-known attacks.
IEEE - Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers
Leading Standards-Setting group in the US. THE HIGHLY-EDUCATED GEEKS WHO CAME UP WITH MOST OF THESE STANDARDS AND ACRONYMS
IMAP - Internet Mail Access Protocol
A protocol for viewing email on a personal computer while leaving it in place on the host system. Contrast POP (Post Office Protocol) which delivers mail and than deletes it from the server.
IMEI - International Mobile Equipment Identity
A 15-digit number used to uniquely identify a mobile device, typically a smartphone or other device that connects to a cellular network.
IMSI - International Mobile Subscriber Identity
A unique number that represents the actual user associated with a particular SIM card. The IMSI is usually available from the carrier, to ensure that stolen phones are not misused. The IMSI number can also be used to unlock a phone.
IP - Internet Protocol
(IP Address) numeric address of a computer connected to the Internet. An IPv4 address is made up of four octets of 8-bit binary numbers translated into their shorthand numeric values. An IPv6 address is 128 bits long. The IP address can be broken down in to a network ID and a host ID also called “Internet Address”
IPCONFIG - Internet Protocol Configuration
Command line utility for Windows servers and workstations that displays the current TCP/IP configuration of the machine
IP - Internet Protocol
(IP Address) numeric address of a computer connected to the Internet. An IPv4 address is made up of four octets of 8-bit binary numbers translated into their shorthand numeric values (EX: 192.168.4.1). An IPv6 address is 128 bits long. The Internet Protocol version 6 consist of 8 sets of four hexidecimal numbers. Colons are used to separate the numbers
IPsec - Internet Protocol Security
Microsoft’s encryption method of choice for networks consisting of multiple networks linked by a private connection, providing transparent encryption between the server and the client.
IrDA - Infrared Data Association
Protocol that enables communication through infrared devices, with speeds of up to 4 Mbps.
IRQ - Interrupt Request
Signal from a hardware device, such as a modem or a mouse, indicating that it needs the CPU’s (Processor’s) attention.
ISA - Industry Standard Architecture
An obsolete expansion interface, which began to be replaced by PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect) and AGP( Accelerated Graphics Port) in the mid-1990s.
ISDN - Integrated Services Digital Network
process of sending telephone transmission across fully digital lines end-to-end, replacing the analog telephone system. DSL reduced demand for ISDN substantially.
ISP - Internet Service Provider
Company that provides access to the Internet, usually for money.
KB - Knowledge Base
Large collection of documents and FAQs that is maintained by Microsoft. **Found on Microsoft’s Web Site, the Knowledge Base is an excellent place to search for assistance on most operating system problems.**
**KVM - Keyboard Video Mouse
Hardware device that enables multiple computers to be viewed and controlled by a single keyboard, screen and mouse.
LAN - Local Area Network
Network cards are sometimes referred to as “LAN Cards” or LAN interfaces. This is a Group of Computers Connected via Cabling, radio, or infrared that use this connectivity to share resources such as printers and mass storage.
LBA - Logical Block Addressing
Addressing scheme that presents storage chunks on a storage device to the OS as a sequence of blocks beginning with LBA0. This saves the OS from having to deal directly with the details of how storage space is arranged on a hard drive or SSD.
LC - Lucent Connector
Type of fiber optic connector
LC - Lucent Connector
Type of fiber optic connector
LCD - Liquid Crystal Display
type of display commonly used on portable computers. LCDs have also replaced CRTs as the display of choice for desktop computer users. LCDs use liquid crystals and electricity to produce images on the screen.
LDAP - Lightweight Directory Access Protocol
Protocol used by many operating systems and applications to access directories.
LED - Light Emitting Diode
Solid-state device that vibrates at luminous frequencies when current is applied.
MAC - Media Access Control/Mandatory Access Control
Media Access Control: Unique 48-bit address assigned to each network card. IEEE assigns blocks of possible addresses to various NIC (Network Interface Cards) manufacturers to help ensure that the address is always unique. **Mandatory Access Control : Authorization method in which the system grants access to resources based on security labels and clearance levels. MAC may be used in organizations with very high security needs.
mATX - Micro Advanced Technology Extended
variation of the ATX form factor which uses the ATX power supply, MicroATX motherboards are generally smaller than their ATX counterparts but retain all the same functionality
MBR - Master Boot Record
Tiny bit of code that takes control of the boot process from the system BIOS.
MDM - Mobile Device Management
a formalized structure that enables an organization to account for all the different types of devices used to process, store, transmit, and receive organizational data.
MFA - Multifactor Authentication
Authentication schema requiring more than one unique authentication factor. The factors are knowledge, possession, inherence, location & temporal. EX: a password (knowledge) a fingerprint (inherence).
MFD - Multifunction Device
single device that consolidates functions from more than one document-handling device, such as a printer, copier, scanner or fax machine
MFP - Multifunction Product
same as above Ex: A printer that also performs other functions such as scanning and faxing
MIDI - Musical Instrument Digital Interface
Interface between a computer and a device for simulating musical instruments. A MIDI File is made up of a set of instructions rather than a copy of the sound.
MIME - Multipurpose Internet Mail Extension
encoding supported by e-mail software.
MIMO - Multiple In Multiple Out
Feature of 802.11n devices that enables the simultaneous connection of up to four antennas, greatly
MIMO - Multiple In Multiple Out
Feature of 802.11n devices that enables the simultaneous connection of up to four antennas, greatly increasing throughput. 802.11ac also uses MU-MIMO which gives a WAP the capability to broadcast to multiple users simultaneously.
MMC - Microsoft Management Console
A shell program in Windows that holds individual utilities called snap-ins, designed for administration and troubleshooting. The MMC enables an administrator to customize management tools by picking and choosing from a list of snap-ins. Available snap-ins include Device Manager, Local Users and Groups, and Computer Management.
MP3 - Moving Picture Experts Group Layer 3 Audio
Short for MPEG Audio Layer 3, a type of compression used specifically for turning high-quality digital audio files into much smaller, yet similar sounding, files.
MP4 - Moving Picture Experts Group Layer 4
Moving Pictures Experts Group standard of video and audio compression offering improved compression over the MPEG-2.
MPEG - Motion Picture Experts Group
a group that sets standards for digital sound and video and the associated data compression requirements.
MSConfig - Microsoft Configuration
System configuration utility. Executable file that runs the Windows System Configuration utility, which enables users to configure a Windows 7 system’s boot files and critical system files. Often used for the name of the utility, as in “just run msconfig”. This functionality moved to Task Manager in Windows 8.
MSDS - Material Safety Data Sheet
Standardized form that provides detailed information about potential environmental hazards and proper disposal methods associated with various computing components.
NAS - Network - Attached Storage
File storage that resides on a separate computer, which owns and manages the files. **A Device that attaches to a network for the sole purpose of storing and sharing files.
NAT - Network Address Translation
A means of translating a system’s IP address into another IP address before sending it out to a larger network. A Network using NAT provides the systems on the network with private IP Addresses. *The NAT program takes packets from the client systems bound for the larger network and translates their internal private IP addresses to its own public IP Address, enabling many systems to share a Single IP Address.
NetBIOS - Network Basic Input/Output System
Protocol that operates at the Session layer of the OSI seven-layer model. This protocol creates and manages connections based on the names of the computers involved. USES TCP PORTS 137 & 139 and UDP Ports 137 & 138.
NFC - Near Field Communication
Mobile technology that enables short-range wireless communication between mobile devices. ***NOW used for Mobile Payment Technology such as Apple Pay and Google Pay.
NFS - Network File System
Network file and print sharing protocol for UNIX and Linux systems that competed with Server Message Block (SMB). Usage has declined as SMB won out.
NIC - Network Interface Card
Expansion card or motherboard interface that enables a PC to connect to a network via a network Cable. A wireless NIC enables connection via radio waves rather than a physical cable.
Network Connection
A method for connecting two or more computers together.
NETWORK*
Interface in File Explorer or Windows Explorer; Displays networked computers and other devices such as Network Printers.
Network Documentation
A road map to an organization’s network configuration and topology for techs who need to change or repair the network. Logs.
Network ID
Logical number that identifies the network on which a device or machine exists. This number exists in TCP/IP and other network protocol suites.
Network Printer
Printer that connects directly to a network.
NETWORK PROTOCOL
Software that takes the incoming data received by the network card, keeps it organized, sends it to the application that needs it, and then takes outgoing data from the application and hands it to the NIC to be sent out over the network.
Networking
Task Manager tab in Windows 7 (merged into the Performance tab in Windows 8) which shows activity on current network connections.
Network Topology Map/Diagram
A map of how everything in an organization’s network (Including switches, routers, WAPs, services and workstations) connect. May indicate connection types, speed, technologies, and so on.
NiCd - Nickel Cadmium
Battery used in the first portable PCs. Heavy and inefficient, these batteries also suffered from a memory effect that could drastically shorten the overall life of the battery.
NiMH: Nickel Metal Hydride
Battery used in early portable PCs, Ni-MH batteries had fewer issues with the memory effect than Ni-Cd batteries. These such batteries have all been replaced by Lithium-Ion batteries.**
NLX - New Low-profile Extended
Second form factor for slimline systems. Replaced the earlier LPX form factor.
NTFS - New Technology File System*
Robust and secure file system introduced by Microsoft with Windows NT. NTFS provides an amazing array of configuration options for user access and security. Users can be granted access to data on a file-by-file basis. ***NTFS enables object-level security, long filename support, compression and encryption.
NTFS Permissions
Restrictions that determine the amount of access given to a particular user on a system using NTFS.
NVMe - Non-Volatile Memory Express
SSD technology that supports a communication connection between the operating system and the SSD directly through a PCIe bus lane, reducing latency and taking full advantage of the speeds of high-end SSDs. NVMe SSDs come in a few formats, such as an add-on expansion card, though most commonly in M.2 format. NVMe drives are a lot more expensive currently than other SSDs, but offer much higher speeds.
NX bit
Technology that enables the CPU to protect certain sections of memory. This feature, coupled with implementation by the operating system, stops malicious malware attacks from getting to essential OS files. Microsoft calls the feature Data Execution Prevention (DEP), turned on by default in every OS.
OCR - Optical Character Recognition
the recognition of printed or handwritten characters in an image of a piece of paper. OCR software is commonly used with scanners so that information received on paper will not have to be retyped into the computer. Info obtained through OCR should be carefully checked for accuracy
Offline Files
Windows feature that enables storing a local, duplicate copy of files and folders on a hard drive. When the laptop connects to a network, Windows automatically syncs those offline files with the files and folders on a file server or other PC.
Offline Files
Windows feature that enables storing a local, duplicate copy of files and folders on a hard drive. When the laptop connects to a network, Windows automatically syncs those offline files with the files and folders on a file server or other PC.
OLED - Organic Light Emitting Diode
Display technology where an organic compound provides the light for the screen, thus eliminating the need for a backlight or inverter. Used in high-end TVs and small devices such as smart watches, smartphones, and VR headsets.
OS - Operating System
a program that controls a computer and makes it possible for users to enter and run their own programs. **Under the control of the OS the computer recognizes and obeys commands typed by the user. In addition, the OS provides built-in routines that allow the user’s program to perform input-output operations without specifying the exact hardware configuration of the computer. **A computer running under one operating system cannot run programs designed to be run under another OS, EVEN on the same computer.
PaaS - Platform as a Service
Cloud-based virtual server(s) combined with a platform that gives Programmers tools needed to deploy, administer, and maintain a Web application.
Packet
Basic component of communication over a network. Group of bits of fixed maximum size and well-defined format that is switched and transmitted as a single entity through a network..
PAL - Phase Alternating Line
the type of analog color TV signal used in Great Britain and many other countries, now being displaced by digital television, although PAL signals continue to be used for connections between low-cost video monitors, cameras and the like.
PAN - Personal Area Network
small wireless network created with Bluetooth technology and intended to link computers and other peripheral devices.
Parallel execution
When a multicore CPU processes more than one thread.
Parallel Port
Connection for the synchronous flow of data along parallel lines to a device, usually a very old printer.
Parity
Early method of error detection where
Parity
Early method of error detection where a small group of bits being transferred is compared to a single parity bit set to make the total bits odd or even. The receiving device reads the parity bit and determines if the data is valid, based on the oddness or evenness of the parity bit.
Parity RAM
Earliest form of error-detecting RAM; stored an extra bit to verify the data.
Parity Space
Storage space that adds resiliency similar to RAID 5 or RAID 6.
Partition
Section of the storage area of a hard disk. Created during the initial preparation of the hard disk, before the disk is formatted.
Partitioning
Electronically subdividing a physical drive into one or more units called partitions or (volumes).
PC Tech
Someone with computer skills who works on computers
PCI - Peripheral Component Interconnect
One of the expansion interfaces that replaced ISA. Many devices are still available for PCI, and most MOBOs still contain at least one or two PCI slots. But PCI has largely been replaced by PCIe.
PCIe - Peripheral Component Interconnect Express
A newer expansion interface designed to replace the PCI, PCI-x, and AGP interfaces. Not to be confused with the PCI-Extended (PCI-X)
PCI-X - Peripheral Component Interconnect Extended
A higher-bandwidth, 64-bit version of the PCI used mainly in servers.
PCL - Printer Command Language
Printer language created by Hewlett Packard to supersede simple ASCII ( American Standard Code for Information Interchange) codes and used on a broad cross section of printers. **Identified as printer “Control Language” in CompTIA.
PCMCIA - Personal Computer Memory Card International Association
Consortium of computer manufacturers who devised the PC Card standard for credit card-sized adapter cards that add functionality in older notebook computers and other computer devices. This shut down in 2009.
PGA - Pin Grid Array
Arrangement of a large number of pins extending from the bottom of the CPU package into corresponding holes in the CPU sockets.
PKI - Public Key Infrastructure
Authentication schema where public keys are exchanged between all parties using digital certificate s, enabling secure communication over public networks.
PnP - Plug and Play
Combination of smart PCs, smart devices, and smart operating systems that automatically configure all necessary system resources and ports when you install a new peripheral device
Plug
Hardware connection with some sort of projection that connects to a port
POP3 - Post Office Protocol 3
One of the two Protocols that receive e-mail from SMTP servers (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol - PORT 25). POP3 uses TCP Port 110. While historically most e-mail clients used this protocol, the IMAP4 e-mail protocol is now more common.
PoS - Point of Sale
a computer used in place of a cash register where merchandise is sold.
PORT
(Networking) In networking, the number used to identify the requested service (such as SMTP or FTP) when connecting to a TCP/IP host. Examples include application protocol ports such as: 80 (HTTP), 443 (HTTPS), 21 (FTP), 23 (Telnet), 25 (SMTP), 110 (POP3), 143 (IMAP), and 3389 (RDP). ***PORT PHYSICAL CONNECTION - Part of a connector into which a plug is inserted. Physical Ports are also referred to as JACKS.
POST - Plain Old Telephone Service OR Power On Self Test
Power-on Self Test - basic diagnostic routine completed by a system at the beginning of the BOOT PROCESS to make sure a display adapter and the system’s memory are installed; it then searches for an Operating System. If it finds one, it hands over control of the machine to the OS.
Pop-up
Irritating browser window that appears automatically when you visit a Website.
Power Good Wire
Used to wake up the CPU after the power supply has tested for proper voltage.
Power Management
Cooperation between hardware, BIOS, and OS to reduce power consumption
PPP - Point to Point Protocol
Enables a computer to connect to the Internet through a dial-in connection and enjoy most of the benefits of a direct connection
PROM - Programmable Read-Only Memory
Read only memory that is programmed after manufacture
PS/2 - Personal System/ 2 Connector
A historical IBM designation that still defines certain computer hardware, **most notable the familiar purple and green mouse and keyboard connectors still used on some computers**
PVC - Polyvinyl chloride
Material used to make the plastic protective sheathing around many basic network cables.
QoS - Quality of Service
Router feature used to prioritize access to network resources. Ensures certain users, applications, or services are prioritized when there isn’t enough bandwidth to go around by limiting the bandwidth for certain types of data based on application protocol, the IP address of a computer, and all sorts of other features.
RAID - Redundant Array of Independent or (Inexpensive) Disks
Method for Creating a fault-tolerant storage system. RAID uses multiple hard drives in various configurations to offer differing levels of speed/data redundancy.
RAID 0
Uses byte-level Striping and provides no fault tolerance. RAID 0 is ZERO REDUNDANCY.
RAID 1
Uses mirroring or duplexing for increased data redundancy. Every File is Duplicated. Required Disk Space is Doubled. Driver failure does not affect data availability.
RAID 5
Uses block-level and parity data striping. REQUIRES 3 or more drivers (Disks)* Files aren’t duplicated but space is still used for parity. Data is available after drive(disk) failure.
RAID 0 + 1
A RAID 0 configuration created by combining two RAID 1s. Provides both speed and redundancy, but requires AT LEAST 4 disks.
RAID 10
The OPPOSITE of RAID 0+1. Two mirrored RAID 0 configurations. Provides both speed and redundancy, and also requires four disks.
RAM - Random Access Memory
Memory that can be accessed at random - that is, memory that you can write to or read from without touching the preceding address. This term is often used to mean a computer’s main memory.
RAS - Remote Access Service
Feature of Windows that enables users to give anyone control of his or her desktop over the Internet
RDP - Remote Desktop Protocol
Generically, the Process of using one system to access the desktop or graphical user interface (GUI) of a remote system.
Remote Desktop Connection
Windows tool used to form a remote desktop connection and graphically access the GUI of a remote system
REMOTE Desktop Protocol
RDP - Protocol used for Microsoft’s Remote Desktop tool. Uses PORT 3389
RFI - Radio Frequency Interference
Another form of electrical interference caused by radio wave-emitting devices, such as cell phones, wireless network cards, and microwave ovens.
RF - Radio Frequency
used for radio communications
RFID - Radio Frequency Identification
Wireless technology that uses small tags containing small amounts of digital information, and readers capable of accessing it. Passive RFID tags operate by harvesting some of the power a scanner or reader emits, enabling a vast array of applications. Common uses such as tracking inventory, identifying lost pets, contactless payments, authentication. Ex: ID Badge, key fob & smart Card
RGB - Red Green Blue
crystal, pixel, LCD
RIP - raster image processor
Component in a printer that translates the raster image into commands for the printer.
RJ-11 - Registered Jack Function 11
dial up connection ; very slow
RJ-45 Registered Jack Function 45
Ethernet cable - 8 wire UTP - found in network connections
ROM - Read Only Memory
Generic Term for nonvolatile memory that can be read from but not written to. This means that code and data stored in ROM cannot be corrupted by accidental erasure. Additionally, ROM retains its data when power is removed. which makes it the perfect medium for storing BIOS data or information such as scientific constants.
RTC - Real-Time Clock
Device within the CMOS memory chip that provides date and time information to the computer and Operating System.
Saas - Software as a Service
Cloud-based service to store, distribute, and update programs and applications. The SaaS model provides access to necessary applications where you have an Internet connection, often without having to carry data with you or regularly update software.
RJ-11 - Registered Jack Function 11
dial up connection ; very slow; 4 pins
RJ-45 Registered Jack Function 45
Ethernet cable - 8 (pin)wire UTP - found in network connections
SAN - Storage Area Network
a computer network that shares disk space using disk sharing rather than file sharing
SAS - Serial Attached SCSI (Small Computer System Interface)
Fast, robust storage interface based on the SCSI command set. Also supports SATA drives. Used mainly in Servers and storage arrays.
SATA - Serial Advanced Technology Attachment
Serialized version of the ATA standard that offers many advantages over PATA (parallel ATA) technology, including thinner cabling, keyed connectors, and lower power requirements. **Used to connect ATA hard drives to the Computer’s MOBO.
SC - Subscription Channel
Also type of Fiber optic connector (SC)
SCSI - Small Computer System Interface
Long - lived storage drive technology once common in the server market. Has been through many iterations. Today, the SCSI command set lives on in Serial Attached SCSI (SAS) hard drives. Pronounced “Scuzzy” ** A very fast, very reliable interface used to connect hard drives to a computer’s MOBO. Usually used only in High-End Servers.
SCSI ID -
Unique identifier used by SCSI devices. NO two SCSI devices may have the same SCSI ID.
SD Card - Secure Digital Card
Hardware authentication involving a credit-card sized card with circuitry that can be used to identify the bearer of that card.
SFC - System File Checker
Command-prompt program that scans, detects, and restores Windows system files, folders & paths.
SFTP - Secure File Transfer Protocol
Secure version of the File Transfer Protocol
SIMM - Single Inline Memory Module
An early DRAM package format that came in two common sizes : 30 PIN and 72-PIN. **An obsolete type of memory chip that used a 32-bit bus, as compared to DIMM chips which use 64-bit chips.
S.M.A.R.T. - Self-monitoring, Analysis, and Reporting Technology
Monitoring system built into hard drives that tracks error and error conditions within the drive
SMB - Server Message Block
Windows’ network file and print sharing protocol, though every major OS now supports it. Protocol of choice for LAN file servers. Uses TCP Port 445 and UDP ports 137, 138 & 139
SMTP - Simple Male Transfer Protocol
MAIN Protocol used to send electronic mail on the Internet. Uses Port 25
SNMP - Simple Network Management Protocol
A set of standards for communication with devices connected to TCP/IP Network. Examples of these devices include routers, hubs, and switches . Uses Ports 161 & 162.
SoDIMM - Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Module
Memory used in portable PCs because of its small size. The form-factor standard for memory used in laptops and other small form-factor computers
SP - Service Pack
Collection of software patches released at one time by a software manufacturer
SPDIF - Sony-Phillips Digital Interface Format
High-quality digital audio connector. Users can connect their computers directly to a 5.1 Speaker system or receiver with a single cable. Comes in both coaxial version and optical version.
Speaker
Device that outputs sound by using magnetically driven diaphragm.
SRAM - Static Random Access Memory
Very High-speed RAM built into CPUs that reduces wait states by pre-loading as many instructions as possible and keeping copies of already run instructions and data in case the CPU needs to work on them again
SSD - Solid State Drive
Data storage device that uses flash memory to store data. A mass-storage device with no moving parts. SSDs are more expense than HDDs.
SSH - Secure Shell
Terminal emulation program similar to Telnet, except that the entire connection is encrypted. USES Port 22
SSID - Service Set Identifier
Parameter used to define a wireless network; otherwise known as the network name.
SSL - Secure Sockets Layer
Security protocol used by a browser to connect to secure Web Sites. Replaced by Transport Layer Security (TLS)
ST - Straight Tip
Type of Fiber Optic Connector
STP - Shielded Twisted Pair
Cabling for networks, composed of pairs of wires twisted around each other at specific intervals. Twists serve to reduce interference (also called cross-talk) the more twists, the less interference. Cable has metallic shielding to protect the wires from external interference
SXGA - Super Extended Graphics Array
Video display mode of 1280 x 1024
TCP/IP - Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol
***Communication Protocols developed by the U.S. Department of Defense to enable dissimilar computers to share information over a network. TCP/IP is the Primary Protocol of most modern networks, INCLUDING the INTERNET. TCP/IP services such as HTTP or SSH that turn atop TCP/IP.
TDR - Time Domain Reflectometer
Device for testing network cabling by measuring impedance (which is similar to resistance); any impedance means a bad cable
TKIP - Temporal Key Integrity Protocol
Deprecated encryption standard used in WPA (Wireless Protected Access) that provided a new encryption key for every sent packet
TLS - Transport Layer Security
Encryption protocol used to securely connect between servers and clients, such as when your Web browser securely connects to Amazon’s servers to make a purchase.
TPM - Trusted Platform Module
A hardware platform for the acceleration of cryptographic functions and the secure storage of associated information. BitLocker, for example, requires a TPM chip on the MOBO to validate on boot that the computer has not changed.
BitLocker Drive Encryption
Drive Encryption software offered in high-end versions of Windows. BitLocker requires a special chip to validate hardware status and to ensure that the computer hasn’t been hacked
UAC - User Account Control
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UAC - User Account Control
Windows feature implemented to stop unauthorized changes to Windows. UAC enables standard accounts to do common tasks and provides a permissions dialog box when standard and administrator accounts do certain things that could potentially harm the computer( such as attempt to install a program.)
UDF - User Defined Function or Universal Disk Format or Universal Data Format
Replaced the ISO - 9660 formats, enabling any operating system and optical drive to read UDF formatted disks
UEFI - Unified Extensible Firmware Interface
Modern 32- or 64-bit firmware programming interface. Replaced the original 16-bit PC BIOS. UEFI supports large capacity storage drives, additional features, and a more direct booting process
UNC - Universal Naming Convention
Describes any shared resource in a network using the convention \.
UpnP - Universal Plug and Play
Allows network devices to be automatically configured and find other network devices .
UPS - Uninterruptable Power Supply
Device that supplies continuous clean power to a computer system the whole time the computer is on.
UPS - Uninterruptable Power Supply
Device that supplies continuous clean power to a computer system the whole time the computer is on. Protects against power outages and corresponding data loss.
URL - Uniform Resource Locator
An address that defines the location of a resource on the Internet. URLs are used most often in conjunction with HTML and World Wide Web.
USB - Universal Serial Bus
General-purpose serial interconnect for keyboards, printers, joysticks, and many other devices. Enables Hot-Swapping of devices.
USMT - User State Migration Tool
Advanced application for file and settings transfer of many users. Only usable within a Windows Server Active Directory Domain.
UTM - Unified Threat Management
Providing robust network security by integrating traditional firewalls with many other security services such as IPS, VPN, load balancing, anti-malware, and more.
UTP - Unshielded Twisted Pair
Popular type of cabling for telephone and networks. composed of pairs of wires twisted around each other at specific intervals. The twists serve to reduce interference; the more twists the less interference. UTP is available in a variety of grades, called Categories as follows: Cat 1 UTP - Cat 5 UTP, Cat 5e UTP, Cat 6 UTP, Cat 6a UTP, Cat 7 UTP - **GO BACK AND REVIEW the Different SPEEDS*
VA - Vertical Alignment
Display technology used in mid-range LCD panels. VA refers to how the liquid crystal matrix is arranged within the panel.
VDI - Virtual Desktop Infrastructure
A traditional desktop OS installed in a VM (Virtual Machine). A local system could run its own VM containing a virtual desktop, or just connect to a virtual desktop running on a remote server
Telnet
a protocol for using one computer as a terminal on another; only textual information is supported, no graphics. Telnet is Widely used to access UNIX systems remotely
VGA - Virtual Graphics Array
VDU - Visual Display Unit
The analog interface standard for attachment of monitors and other VDUs to a computer. VDU (Visual Display Unit) A monitor, projector, or other device used to display or project a computer’s visual data.
VM - Virtual Machine
A complete environment for a guest operating system to function as though that operating system were installed on its own computer. **VIRTUAL MACHINE MANAGER - SEE HYPERVISOR
VNC - Virtual Network Computer
Protocol enabling remote desktop connections
VoIP - Voice over Internet Protocol
Collection of Protocols that makes voice calls over a data network possible.
VPN - Virtual Private Network
Encrypted connection over the Internet between a computer or remote network and a private network
WAN - Wide Area Network
A widespread group of computers connected using long-distance technologies.
WAP - Wireless Access Protocol/Wireless Access Point
Device that centrally connects wireless network Nodes.
WIFI - Wireless Fidelity
Common name for the IEEE 802.11 wireless Ethernet standard.
Windows 7
OS developed by Microsoft. Version of Windows; comes in many different editions for home and office use, but does not have a Server edition. Succeeded by Windows 8/8.1
Windows 8/8.1
OS developed by Microsoft. Versions of Windows noted for the Metro interface. Used for desktop and portable PCs and for mobile devices. Succeeded by Windows 10.
Windows 10
OS developed by MS that powers most desktop and portable computers in use today. **Soon to be succeeded by Windows 11 OS. **
WMN - Wireless Mesh Network
A Hybrid wireless topology in which most nodes connect in a mesh network while also including some wired machines. Nodes act like routers; they forward traffic for other nodes, but without wires.
WPA - Wireless Protected Access
Wireless security protocol that uses encryption key integrity-checking/TKIP and EAP and is designed to improve on WEP’s weaknesses. Succeeded by WPA2. NEVER use WEP. ALWAYS USE WPA2!!!
WEP - Wired Equivalent Privacy
Wireless security protocol that uses a standard 40-bit encryption to scramble data packets. Does not provide complete end-to-end encryption and is vulnerable to attack!!!!!
WUXGA - Wide Ultra Extended Graphics Array
Video Display Mode of 1920 x 1200.
XGA - Extended Graphics Array
Video Display Mode of 1024 x 768.
ZIF - Zero-Insertion Force
Socket for CPUs that enables insertion of a chip without the need to apply pressure. Intel promoted this socket with its overdrive upgrades. The chip drops effortlessly into the socket’s holes, and a small lever locks it in.
ZIP - Zigzag Inline Package
Compression feature of Windows; compresses large files.
