Application
Also shortened to app. A synonym for software.

Architecture
Refers to the design of software, hardware, or how software and hardware work together to perform tasks. The architecture of a software program maps out the complete functionality of the application.

Authoring Tool
Software that allows users to create multimedia applications. Authors can combine text, audio, and other elements to create a training manual, interactive resume, or any number of other programs.

AUI
A name for the 15-pin D-type connector used to connect 10Base5 coaxial cable.

Backbone
A part of a network that links departmental LANs together. Backbones typically use high-speed network designs such as 100BaseT or FDDI.

BNC
A name for the end of a 10Base2 Ethernet cable. BNC is often used as shorthand to refer to 10Base2 networks.

CAD
Short for computer-aided design. CAD programs have replaced the drafting board as mission control for industries in need of multifunctional modeling and design systems.

Category 5
A name given to cabling rated to carry transmissions of 100 Mbps or faster. Category 5 cabling is required for 100BaseT networks. While Category 3 (and 4) wiring is acceptable for 10BaseT networks, it is generally worthwhile to install Category 5 wiring now if there is any chance you will need the higher speeds in the future.

Client/Server
This type of software enables your computer (the client) to communicate with a centralized server. Client/server software is critical if a company wants all employees to have access to information without loading that information onto every computer in the office.

Ethernet
Ethernet is the most widely used LAN technology. Most businesses installing a network today use Ethernet technology. Ethernet connects up to 1,024 nodes at 10 Mbps over twisted pair, coax and optical fiber. All stations share the total bandwidth within the network segment.

Gigabit Ethernet (1000 Mbps)
The newest version of Ethernet, which supports data transfer rates of 1 Gigabit (1,000 megabits) per second. Ideal only for large businesses using a MAN (Metropolitan Area Network) or WAN (Wide Area Network).

GroupWare
Any software which allows users to share ideas, exchange information, or work on the same project from different locations.

Hub
A type of hardware used in 10BaseT and 100BaseT networks that connects all the cabling from computers and peripherals.

ISDN
(Integrated Services Digital Network) An international telecommunications standard for transmitting voice, video and data over digital lines running at 64 Kbps (kilobits per second)

IPX
The protocol used by Novell NetWare to send data over a network.

LAN
A communications network that serves users within a confined geographical area (usually means within the same office space).

License
A license is what you actually pay for when you buy software.You are not buying the software but the license that gives you the right to use it on one computer (though some licensing agreements vary depending on the situation).

LocalTalk
A proprietary type of network used with small numbers of Macintosh computers. To install a LocalTalk network, you simply need a PhoneNet connector for each computer, connected together by ordinary phone wire. The major drawback to LocalTalk is that it is very slow, operating at a maximum speed of 0.23 Mbps.

MAN
(Metropolitan Area Network) A communications network that covers a geographic area such as a city or suburb. See LAN and WAN.

MAU
Multi-station access unit. A type of hardware that connects cabling from computers and peripherals in a Token Ring network. The term MAU is also sometimes used to describe an Ethernet hub.

MiddleWare
Refers to programs that connect two separate applications. MiddleWare is often used as the glue between a database and web-based application. Sometimes referred to as plumbing.

Node
Each computer or peripheral in the network.

Protocol
Rules governing the transmitting and receiving of data.

RJ-45
The type of plug used to connect cabling used in 10BaseT networks. RJ-45 plugs look like a standard modular phone jack, except they are a bit wider to accommodate four twisted pairs of wires.

Router
Hardware that allows any network user to connect with outside modems, networks, or other data sources. A router can be used to connect an entire network with a branch office or an Internet access provider.

Shareware/Freeware
Programs that are available for free or on a trial basis. Many shareware programs may not be suitable for the business environment, though some applications, like FTP programs, are a safe bet.

Station
A generic name for a computer or a peripheral on a network.

Switches
Hardware used on (generally) high-speed networks to connect network segments without causing collisions. Switches allow you to create large, flexible networks without compromising data speeds.

System Requirements
A general term used to describe the capabilities a computer must have in order to successfully run a particular program. Most system requirement information includes the minimum needs for memory (hard drive and RAM) and processor speed, what type of operating system the program can run on, and whether a CD-ROM drive or Internet access is required.

T1, T2, T3
A T1 is a 1.544 Mbps point-to-point dedicated line provided by the telephone companies. The monthly cost is typically based on distance. T1 lines are widely used for private networks and high-speed links to and from Internet service providers. A T1 line provides 24 64-Kbps voice or data channels. T2 provides 6.312 Mbps and 96 channels, and T3, 44.736 Mbps and 672 channels.

Transceiver
A small device used to connect a computer with a specific type of network cabling. For example, a transceiver might connect an AUI (10Base5) port on a printer to 10BaseT twisted pair cables. Transceiver comes from transmitter and receiver.

Twisted pair (TP)
The abbreviation TP is often used to indicate 10BaseT connections, since this type of network uses twisted pair cabling.

User Interface
Also shortened to UI. User interfaces are what you see when you use a program - i.e. taskbars, pulldowns, scroll bars, etc.

Vaporware
A sarcastic term that refers to software that is promised by publishers but is never released or is delayed by bugs or maintenance.