Learn to talk tech - read on to learn the terminology you need when shopping for business technology solutions.
Internet Technologies, Terms, and Definitions
Antivirus: Software that blocks, scans, and removes malicious programs designed to capture information, delete files and data, or use your computer to send messages to others.
Broadband: Generally refers to megabits-per-second speeds as opposed to narrowband or dial-up access.
DNS: Domain Name Servers translate names (example: mybusiness.com) into IP address codes (ex: 192.60.45.23).
Domain (Domain name): A plain-language name used to identify an Internet website. The Internet uses numerical IP address codes (example: 192.60.45.23). Assigning an easy-to-remember, plain-language or domain name like “mybusiness.com” helps users find websites.
Download: To move or copy files from an external source, such as the Internet, to your computer. Examples of this include downloading software updates and email attachments.
Dynamic IP Address: Comcast uses Dynamic IP addresses that give you a temporary IP address as an added layer to increase security and protection for you. Hackers cannot attack your computer because they do not have your correct address.
Firewall: Software or hardware that protects your computer against unwanted attackers. Comcast offers free McAfee firewall protection.
Gateway: A connection between one computer network and another. Comcast’s Voice service provides a gateway between Comcast and other voice networks to complete telephone calls. Routers are sometimes referred to as gateways, depending on the features they provide.
Internet: The interconnection of computer networks. The Internet has grown exponentially because of the ability of Internet providers, such as Comcast, to interconnect IP (Internet Protocol) packets.
IP gateway: IP stands for Internet Protocol, the internationally standardized packet format used to send data (voice, data, video, or other format) across the Internet.
Kbps: Thousands of bits per second.
Mbps: Mega (one million) bits per second.
Online meeting service: An online meeting or conferencing service that offers the user an opportunity to view or present audiovideo and multimedia files.
Router: A hardware device that links multiple computers to a single network. The computers can then communicate with each other, creating a local area network (LAN).
Spam: Junk or unsolicited email.
Static IP: Refers to an unchanging or permanent Internet address code. Comcast can provide Static IP addresses to businesses that have their own IDS (Intrusion Detection System) or firewall.
Upload: To move or copy files from your computer to another source. For example, businesses can upload or back up their critical files to other locations as a form of disaster protection.
Web hosting: A service that provides you with a website “billboard” using a server with Internet access. Many businesses prefer to use an outside service to “host” or display their website. Comcast offers business-class Web hosting complete with technical support.
Telephone Technologies, Terms, and Definitions
Digital Voice: Calls transmitted using digital technology on a line other than a traditional phone line.
VoIP: An acronym standing for Voice over Internet Protocol. In other words, phone calls over the Internet.
Cable TV Technologies, Terms, and Definitions
HDTV: An acronym for High-Definition Television. Hi-def uses digital technology to deliver higher picture resolution and clarity than standard television.
VOD: Video on Demand. Interactive television that lets you watch a program at a specified or convenient time. It also allows the viewer to play, pause, fast-forward, rewind, and seek while the program is playing.
