Index
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waiting for a response. A program used to test whether or not a network component is
available.
PPP
(Point-to-Point Protocol) The most common method for connecting to the Internet. PPP
provides serial line (dial-up) connectivity, authentication, compression and encryption
between two computers and can handle several protocols simultaneously.
Protocol
Hardware and software standards that govern transmission between two computerize and
communications devices. There are several layers, or levels, of functionality in a
protocol. Each layer may be available, as a separate software component, or several
layers may be combined into one.
Public IP Address
See Routable IP Address.
RAM
Random Access Memory is the working memory of the computer where you can enter
information and call up data.
Routable IP Address (Public IP Address)
A communications protocol that contains a network address as well as a device address,
allowing data to be routed from one network to another. Examples of routable protocols
are SNA , OSI, TCP/IP, XNS, IPX, AppleTalk and DECnet.
Serial Port
An input/output (I/O) port transmits data one bit at a time, as opposed to a parallel port
which transmits multiple (usually eight) bits simultaneously. RS232C is a common serial
interface standard.
Service Specific Software
A program designed for a designated online service such as AOL.
Stop Bit
A data bit used in asynchronous transmission to signal the end of the character.
System Administrator
The person responsible for monitoring computer activity in a specified area, such as a
company.
TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol)
