A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Access number
An access number is a phone number that your computer's modem dials in order to connect to the internet when using a dial-up connection.

ActiveX
ActiveX is a set of technologies from Microsoft that enables interactive content for the World Wide Web. As ActiveX security settings in Internet Explorer can allow web pages to secretly install ActiveX controls automatically, they can be a significant security threat. ActiveX controls can access files on your hard drive.

Adapter
An adapter is a device that allows a computer to connect to a home network. Traditionally, a network adapter comes in the form of a card (NIC) that is installed inside your computer and provides a port into which you plug your Ethernet cable. Most computers now come with them built in, but you can also install one yourself. You can check your computer manuals to confirm that you have Ethernet already.

If you choose to install a wireless network, you will need a special type of adapter for each computer or internet device (see Wireless Adapter). In most cases, each computer you want to connect to a home network will need some kind of adapter. Whether or not you need to purchase extra adapters depends on the computers you have, and the type of network you decide to install.

Adware
Programs that some rogue websites might try to install on your computer, which bombard you with unwanted advertising or charge you at a premium rate for viewing or downloading that site's web pages.

ADSL
Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line (ADSL) is a type of internet connection that gives faster connection speeds over a phone line. ADSL uses high frequency, while a regular phone line uses low frequency. This allows internet and voice services to be used simultaneously on the same line. This is what is usually referred to as broadband.

ADSL2
Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line 2 (ADSL2) allows increased line speeds. It has new power-saving elements, and extends the reach of the original ADSL specification.

ADSL2+
Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line 2 plus (ADSL2+) is a revised version of ADSL2 that enables increased speeds by increasing the frequencies used on the copper line.

Antivirus software
A program that detects, repairs and removes virus infected files from a computer. Our Super Secure Boost offers such protection.

Attachment
A file or document that is attached to an email. Attachments are usually viewable as an icon in an email that allows you to open or save the document to your computer.

Attenuation
A term used to describe how much of a signal is lost as it is sent down a line. If the attenuation is too high, you may not be able to use the line.

Bandwidth
Bandwidth determines how fast web pages take to load and how long it takes to transfer a file. The greater the bandwidth, the quicker the transfer.

Blog
An abbreviation of weblog. A blog is a website that displays in chronological order postings by an individual or a small subset of people. The content is usually on a specific theme or based around the user's daily life. A blog may also allow other people to comment on the posted content. Also used as a verb, 'to blog' means to post on a weblog.

Bluetooth
A wireless technology that enables standalone devices to talk to each other without wires. Personal devices such as mobile computers, mobile phones, portable hand-held devices, wireless keyboards and wireless mice are often Bluetooth-enabled.

Bookmark
A way of recording your favourite web pages in a list in your browser for future reference.

Boosts
Boosts can be added to your TalkTalk Essentials or Plus package and allow you to add extra features that are tailored to your needs. You can find a full list of our Boosts and the features they offer at: Enhance your broadband and phone package.

Bridge
Bridges connect different types of home network together. For instance, if you have an Ethernet (wired) home network and want to connect another room to it with wireless (802.11), you can use an Ethernet-to-wireless bridge to accomplish this.

Broadband
Broadband is the term for an internet connection that is faster than traditional telephone dial-up. There are several types of broadband, but the most popular two are cable and ADSL.

Browser
See: Web Browser.

Browser Helper Object (BHO)
A program that runs automatically every time a browser is launched. It extends the functionality of the browser, but it can also track how you use the Internet.

Calling features
Features that you can add to your TalkTalk phone line, such as Voicemail or Caller Display. You can either add these either individually or as part of a Boost. See: Using your calling features for help with TalkTalk calling features. Voicemail Plus, Last Caller Barring and Anonymous Caller Reject are not included in the Calling Features Boost.

Cat5 cable
Category 5 is the technical name for the specification of the wire used for Ethernet cables.

Cookies
Cookies are small pieces of information that websites place on your computer, so when you return the site recognises you as a user. Cookies don't harm your computer, and almost all commercial websites use them to make their sites more personal and user-friendly. You can set your browser to refuse cookies or to alert you when they are used, but this may make it difficult to use certain websites.

Crossover cable
This is the type of cable you use when connecting two computers (or a computer and a games console) together without the use of an Ethernet hub/switch. A crossover cable will work only to connect two devices together, and is required for Internet Connection Sharing.

D-Link DSL-2640R and DSL-2740R
The D-Link DSL-2640R and DSL-2740R are broadband routers with wireless capability. They are ADSL2+ compatible and have four Ethernet ports.

DACS
A DACS box, or DACS, is a device that was previously used by telephone line providers to split one phone line into two or more lines. This is an older technology and is not compatible with an ADSL broadband service.

Data miner
A data miner is a program that can collect information on how you browse and use websites. The collected information can include data gathered from forms you fill in and submit. Usually, data miners work without your knowledge.

DHCP
Dynamic Host Control Protocol (DHCP) is used to issue IP addresses to computers in a home network by your router. When you configure your computer to obtain an address, it will automatically use DHCP to communicate with the router to accomplish this task.

Dialler
A dialler is a program that tries to connect to an expensive pay-per-minute phone number using the modem. Most diallers work without your awareness or permission.

Dialler box
A dialler box is a device that you connect to your telephone line, in order to select the cheapest service provider for the call you are making. Dialler boxes are not compatible with the TalkTalk phone service, and should be removed or cancelled before signing up to TalkTalk.

Dial-up
A slower internet connection through a standard phone line. This type of connection requires the user to dial up and log on. Dial-up is generally at least 20 times slower than a broadband connection.

DNS
Domain Name Service (DNS) is used to translate the address that you type into a web browser into an IP address that the internet can understand to bring back the website you wish to visit.

Domain
The address of a specific website is known as its domain name.

Downloading
Downloading is the process of transferring a stored file from another computer to your computer. Files can include text documents, pictures, sounds, videos and entire computer programs. For example, when you get music from iTunes or watch YouTube you're downloading files.

Download speed
The download speed determines how quickly you can download a file or web page. The faster your download speed, the quicker you get your file.

DSL
Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) is a friendlier term for ADSL. It is a type of internet connection that gives faster connection speeds over a phone line. DSL uses high frequency, while a regular phone line uses low frequency. This allows internet and voice services to be used simultaneously on the same line.

DUN
Dial-up networking is an internet standard for connecting to a network via a dial-up modem. It's also the name given to a connection that is set up through Windows, which can connect through a dial-up or broadband modem.

Email
Electronic mail that can be sent from computer to computer, regardless of location, using an internet user's email address. This can be a short message or include files such as photos or documents.

Email scanning
This is when security software automatically scans your emails for infections such as viruses or worms.

Ethernet port
A small, rectangular connector that can be found on the back of most recent computers and laptops.

Fair Usage Policy
Broadband providers who offer unlimited downloads employ a Fair Usage Policy to ensure users do not download an excessive amount. Providers have the power to limit a user's bandwidth if they exceed their download limit. This will result in slower speeds for the relevant users. This only applies to a very small percentage of customers who are classed as heavy downloaders.

File
A file is an electronic document that can consist of text, pictures, sounds, videos or whole programs.

Firewall
A firewall helps protect your computer or home network against unwanted access. Firewalls come in a variety of forms. They may be included with a gateway device, such as a router, or comprise software programs that run on your computer.

FTP
File Transfer Protocol (FTP) is a way of exchanging files with other computers over the internet.

Gateway
Often another name for a router, this device manages the connections between a home network and the internet (see Router).

GB
A gigabyte (GB) is a unit of computer information or storage equal to one billion bytes. Download limits are measured in gigabytes.

GIF
A format in which images can be created on a computer. It is often used to create very short, basic animations.

Go-live date
The date your service will be activated. We will advise you of your go-live date in your Welcome Pack. Your service could become active at any time that day, up until midnight.

Hard drive
The internal storage device local to your computer.

Hoax
A chain letter that spreads a false virus warning or other falsehood.

Home networking
A home network is two or more computers, or internet-ready devices, that are connected to each other within the home, usually through a router. This allows you to share your connection between computers so that multiple people in your home can access the internet at the same time.

Homepage
The front or landing page of any website. This page is often used as an index page to allow you to navigate a website. Browsers refer to the homepage as the default page, which is loaded when the browser is opened or the Home button is clicked in the browser.

Hosts file
The Hosts file is like an address book. When you type an address into your web browser, the address is translated into a numeric IP address. If the address can be found from the Hosts file, your computer will use it. If not, your computer will connect to the Domain Name System (DNS) service of your Internet Service Provider. Some malware can edit your Hosts file to hijack and redirect a web connection to a completely different site on the internet.

Hyperlink
A piece of text or an image that you can click to open a web page or see some media. Text hyperlinks are usually highlighted and underlined.

IMAP
Internet Message Access Protocol (IMAP) is a system used to send and receive email, where the email remains on the server instead of within the email application. IMAP is used to allow customers access to their TalkTalk email via a third-party email application.

Internet
A global network of connected computers sharing information via websites, email and various other methods.

IP
An Internet Protocol address, or IP address, is a unique address given to every computer on the internet. They are made up of four numbers separated by dots: for example, 212.58.224.131.

ISP
Internet Service Provider (ISP) is the technical term for a company that provides internet access, web space or website hosting for business and home users. TalkTalk is an ISP.

JPEG
One of the most common image format types you can choose from when saving graphics.

JPG
This is the common file extension for JPEG files.

Joke
A program with annoying or funny functionality, but not destructive.

Kb (Kilobit)
A unit of data transfer usually used to describe slower broadband connections. These connections are measured in kilobits-per-second (kbps).

KB (Kilobyte)
A unit of computer information or storage equal to 1024 bytes.

LAN
A Local Area Network (LAN) is the industry term for a network of computers in the same building. Both home networks and company networks are considered LANs.

Latency
Latency measures the time it takes a packet of information to travel between two devices in communication. If a network has high latency, it takes a long time for information to be delivered. Internet applications that require quick responses, such as games, function poorly if a connection's latency is high.

LED
This is the small, coloured light on computing devices such as modems and routers. Some can change colour to indicate different problems.

LLU
Local Loop Unbundling (LLU) is the process of making BT local telephone exchanges available to other companies, such as TalkTalk. It allows us to install our own equipment on to the telephone exchange, making it easier for us to provide our customers with online and telephony services.

MAC
A Migration Authorisation Code (MAC) is a code that enables broadband users in the UK to change from one broadband service provider to another with minimal interruption to their broadband service. The MAC is provided by the service provider from which the user is migrating. MACs are usually valid for 30 days, and must be used within that time period to work.

Malware
A common name for all kinds of unwanted software such as viruses, worms, Trojans and jokes.

Master socket
The master socket, otherwise known as the NTE5, is the primary phone socket in a house. It is usually situated in the hallway. It has a fixed upper section and a removable panel in the lower section. BT, and therefore TalkTalk, only guarantee a broadband signal at the master socket. This is the best socket to connect your router to.

MB
A megabyte (MB) is a unit of data transfer equivalent to one million bytes. Faster broadband connections are measured in megabytes-per-second (Mbps).

Microfilter (DSL)
This is the term usually applied to the small box used with DSL broadband connections to separate the telephone signals from the broadband signals. You must connect a microfilter into every phone socket that is in use within your home. This includes phone sockets that have devices such as a telephone, Sky box or burglar alarm. Microfilters can also be referred to as DSL filters.

Misc
Programs that do not fit into any established category. There is no sign of their installation until after the installation is completed and the program is present in the system. They can include items looked for in the Hosts file as a part of a redirected Hosts file hijack.

Monitoring tool
A monitoring tool can monitor and record all computer activities, including each keystroke you type on the keyboard. This means that if a monitoring tool is installed on your computer, someone could potentially obtain any username and password details you type.

MP3
The most popular format for digital music files, though there are many other ways to save music files.

MTU
The Maximum Transmission Unit (MTU) is the size of the largest packet that a network protocol can transmit. Any messages larger than the MTU are divided into smaller packets before being sent.

Multipartite virus
A virus composed of several parts. Every part of a multipartite virus needs to be cleaned away, to give assurance of non-infection.

Netgear DG834G
The Netgear DG834G is a wired or wireless broadband modem router. TalkTalk supports version 3 and above for this type of router. This modem router is ADSL2+ compatible.

Netgear DGN2000
The Netgear DGN2000 is a wired or wireless broadband modem router. This modem router is ADSL2+ compatible.

Netgear WG111
The Netgear WG111 is a wireless USB adapter, offering speeds of up to 54Mbps. This wireless adapter works with both 802.11b and 802.11g.

Netgear WG511
The Netgear WG511 is a wireless adapter built primarily for laptops. It offers connection speeds of up to 54Mbps and connects to the computer via a PCMCIA slot.

Network
A term that refers to any number of interconnected computers. The internet is one huge network, but a few computers connected in a household is also a network.

Network Address Translation (NAT)
An internet standard that enables a Local Area Network (LAN) to use one set of IP addresses for internal traffic and a second set for external traffic. For instance, though an ISP assigns only one external IP number to a home network, the router connecting the home network allows the computers attached to it to share that single IP by assigning them each their own internal identity.

NIC
A Network Interface Card (NIC) is a piece of computer hardware that is designed to allow computers to communicate over a computer network. It is also referred to as a network card, network adapter or LAN Adapter.

Noise
Unwanted network signals that get in the way of wanted signals.

On-access scanner
A real-time scanner that acts as a background process, providing a constant guard against viruses and other malicious threats to your computer.

On-demand scanner
An anti-virus program that is started manually or to a specific time schedule.

Operating system
An operating system (OS) is a program that manages all the other programs on a computer. The other programs are called applications or application programs. Windows, Linux and Mac OS are examples of commonly used operating systems.

P2P
Peer-to-Peer (P2P) refers to a type of network that enables users to connect their computers and share files directly with other users, without having to go through a centralised server. Each computer in a P2P network has the same capabilities. Using P2P software can dramatically reduce the speed of your broadband connection.

Phishing
It is common for users to receive fake emails, pretending to be from a bank or an online retailer, asking them to input bank account details or other personal information. If a user does as requested, the account details are stolen and used to break into the user's account. These emails are often very convincing, even providing links to websites that can appear credible at first glance. If in doubt, please contact your bank or the relevant online retailer as soon as possible.

Phone line
As well as using your phone line to make calls, you also use it to connect your DSL modem (remember to connect your filters also).

PING
This is a command that can be used to see if another IP address is accessible. A small packet is sent out from the computer to the IP address you want to test, and if the other end receives the packet, it sends a reply. You can also use the PING command to see how long it takes for a test packet to reach an IP address and get returned, so it can be used for latency tests. This command is used for diagnosing problems.

Polymorphic virus
A virus that changes its signature as it passes through new host files, making disinfection a serious challenge.

POP3
Post Office Protocol version 3 (POP3) is an email protocol that removes email from a server and stores it in an email application on your computer.

PPP
Point-to-Point Protocol (PPP) is a protocol used for connecting a computer to the internet.

Pro-rata
Pro-rata, or part-month, is a charge that may be added to your first bill, or to your first bill after a chargeable feature has been added to your account. The charge covers any unpaid days leading up to your billing date where the service was live.

PSTN
Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) is a general term referring to the worldwide telephone network based on copper wires carrying analog voice data, as opposed to newer telephone networks, which are based on digital technologies.

Real-time scanner
A scanner that operates in the background, allowing a user to continue working at normal speed, with no significant slowing of the system.

Replication mechanism
A mandatory feature of every virus and worm. If it doesn't have a replication mechanism, by definition it is not a virus or worm.

RJ11
The connectors used by your router or modem to connect to a phone line are usually RJ11. They are small, square connectors and have four pins (usually, only two are used).

RJ45
The ethernet cables in your home network will all use RJ45 connectors. They are small, square (slightly wider than RJ11) connectors with eight pins.

Rootkit
A rootkit is an invasive type of malware that gives hackers a back door into a user's computer. There it can perform various unauthorised activities by penetrating deep into the computer's operating system and modifying it where necessary.

Router
A device that manages the connections between a home network and the internet. Many routers have a DSL modem built in, removing the need for a separate broadband modem. If this is the case, your router links directly to your broadband connection through your telephone line. Most routers contain a switch that allows them to 'intelligently' direct information to the appropriate connected PCs, depending on the demand of the individual device, via either Ethernet or USB cables.

Many routers also allow wireless connections, either as standard or with the addition of an extra piece of hardware (either a wireless upgrade card or wireless access point) that allows them to communicate with other PCs via radio waves. Each of these other computers also requires a wireless adapter.

Saver socket
A saver socket is very similar to a dialler box, in that it is designed to choose the cheapest service provider for the phone call you are making. As with a dialler box, saver sockets are not compatible with the TalkTalk phone service and should be removed or cancelled before signing up to TalkTalk.

Search engine
A website tool that allows you to search websites on the internet for information using key words and phrases. Google is the most popular search engine.

SNR
Signal-to-noise ratio (SNR or S/N) is defined as the ratio of the signal power to the noise power corrupting the signal.

Spam
Spam is unsolicited email, usually advertising something. Most email programs include a spam filter, which helps cut down the amount of spam in your Inbox.

Spyware
Spyware is software that can be secretly installed on your computer to track your internet activity, with the purpose of giving you targeted advertisements over the internet. Spyware is generally not as malicious as a virus, but it can detrimentally affect the performance of your computer. You can use spyware protection programs to remove spyware from your computer.

SSFP
A Service-Specific Faceplate (SSFP) is a telephone socket that filters broadband and voice data down a telephone line without using a DSL filter. SSFPs are often installed by a BT Openreach engineer.

SSID
A Service Set Identifier (SSID) is the name that is used to identify a wireless network.

SSL
Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) is a protocol that provides secure communication over the internet by encrypting the information transmitted.

Stealth virus
A virus that hides itself by intercepting disk access requests. When an anti-virus program tries to read files or boot sectors to find the virus, the stealth virus feeds the anti-virus program a clean image of the file or boot sector.

Streaming
Multimedia information can be streamed onto your computer and you can watch it as it plays. This technology does not store a permanent copy of the file on your PC.

Synchronisation speed (line rate)
When your ADSL modem connects, it is given a set of parameters by the telephone exchange. These include a target signal-to-noise ratio and a maximum synchronisation (sync) speed. This is the speed at which your ADSL router communicates with the exchange. The sync speed of your ADSL router is the absolute limiting factor in your broadband speed. You cannot download or upload any faster than this speed. Maximum download speeds are generally around 80% of the sync speed. A number of factors affect your sync speed.

It is greatly affected by the length of the cable between you and the telephone exchange and the quality of the cables and extension leads inside your house. Electrical noise also reduces the efficiency of your cable and means your router has to sync at a slower speed to maintain a stable connection.

Tariff
Or price plan is the monthly amount you pay on top of your line rental to receive services and benefits from your ISP and/or voice provider.

TCP/IP
TCP/IP is the set of communication protocols used for the internet and other similar networks. Its name derives from two of the most important protocols in the set: the Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) and the Internet Protocol (IP). These were the first two networking protocols defined in this standard.

Throughput
This refers to the amount of data that can be sent or received down the network at any one time.

TraceRoute
A command that is used to find the path to a specific destination over the internet. It is used for diagnostic purposes only.

Tracking cookies
Tracking cookies track your web browsing habits. They can collect information about pages and advertisements you have viewed, and other browsing habits. Different websites can share tracking cookies, and each website with the same tracking cookie can read the information and write new information into it.

Trojan horse
Trojan horses are files that appear to perform some function but contain, hidden in their code, instructions that cause damage (sometimes severe) to your computer.

UAC
User Account Control (UAC) is a technology and security infrastructure introduced with the Windows Vista operating system. It improves security by limiting application access until an administrator allows it.

Unbilled usage
Your unbilled usage generally refers to calls that you have made for which you have not yet been billed. You can see your unbilled usage, or unbilled balance, in the online My Account area.

Upload speed
The speed with which you can send a file (for example, pictures as an attachment with email) is limited by your upload speed. The faster your upload speed, the quicker you can send a file.

UPnP
Universal Plug and Play (UPnP) is a technology allowing communication between some network devices and routers. It enables devices to tell routers what services (such as games and applications) it is running, so the router will not stop data relating to these services. This is particularly relevant to gaming. If your router and gaming machine support UPnP and have it turned on, you will not need to change the configuration on the router to make the game work.

URL
URL stands for Uniform Resource Locator. It is the technical term for the web address you type into a browser to access sites on the internet.

USB
Universal Serial Bus (USB) is a type of connection that is used to connect external devices to a computer. It can be used to connect a variety of devices, such as modems, printers, digital cameras and MP3 players.

USB modem
A type of broadband modem that connects to a USB port on your computer. These modems require special software called drivers to work. Unlike Ethernet modems, they do not require a separate power supply, as your computer gives them the power they need to work.

Virus
A virus is a small program that can lodge in your computer and send out copies of itself to other computers. Some are fairly harmless, but others can do severe damage to your PC. Viruses are usually transmitted over the internet, especially in emails. They can attach themselves to files or lurk in other software; some may even hijack your address book and send themselves to all your contacts. It is important to use anti-virus software in order to prevent viruses from harming your computer.

VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol)
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is a technology that allows you to make calls over the internet through your computer. You can do this by signing up with one of the various services available, many of which offer free calls.

Vulnerability
Vulnerabilities in computing systems open security holes that can allow other applications to connect to the system without your authorisation or knowledge.

Web browser
A web browser is a program that is used to access the internet. Popular web browsers are Internet Explorer, Firefox and Safari. Windows computers usually come with Internet Explorer pre-installed. Mac computers come with Safari pre-installed. All browsers have an Address bar at the top of the screen where you can type a web address, such as www.talktalk.co.uk, which is the web address for TalkTalk.

Webmail
Enables you to pick up and send emails, without an email application, directly from the internet using a web browser.

Web
The World Wide Web, usually referred to as the web, is the main interface for the internet. The World Wide Web is a vast network of computers that share information. You can access web pages from a browser by typing a web address into the Address bar.

Webcam
A camera that, when connected to a computer, can be used to transmit images over the internet.

WEP
Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) is a security protocol for wireless networks. A 128-bit WEP key is almost always entered by users as a string of 26 hexadecimal characters (0-9 and A-F). WEP is considered obsolete as a security method for wireless networks. It has been replaced by WPA.

Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi is the trade name for the popular wireless networking technology used for home networks, mobile phones, video games and other electronic devices that require some form of wireless capability.

Wireless adapter
If you choose to install a wireless network, you will require a special type of adapter for each computer you wish to link to your network. You can use either a wireless PCMCIA card that slots into the side of your laptop, or a wireless USB adapter that plugs into the USB connector for any USB-enabled PC. You will need to configure your adapter(s) to communicate with your wireless router. You should follow the installation guide for your chosen solution on how to do this.

Worm
A malicious program that can replicate itself across computers by sending copies in email messages or over a network.

WPA
Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) is a form of encryption for wireless data. The WPA key or password can usually be found in the wireless settings section of a modem router's configuration page. WPA is a more secure method of encryption than the older WEP method.

WPA2
Wi-Fi Protected Access 2 (WPA2) is the successor to WPA. It is considered more secure than WPA.

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