ADSL
Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line (ADSL) is a form of DSL. ADSL allows a faster data transfer over convensional copper wire (telephone lines) than standard modems can. ADSL differs from other forms of DSL becasuse it allows for better flow of data in one direction over the other.
Always On
Your internet connection is always enabled and ready for use. A dial-up connection only connects when you are ready to use it.
Anti Virus Software
Anti Virus software runs on your PC continuously checking the data coming into your PC. It detects the presence of a virus and disables it before it can do damage to your PC.
Bandwidth
Bandwidth is the term used to track how much data is being sent and recieved from your PC/laptop. A lot of ISP's limit the bandwidth you are allowed per month. See our Broadband Limits page for more information on what is possible to use within each band.
Contention Ratio
You share your connection to the local telephone exchange with other internet users. The Contention Ratio gives an indication as to the maximum number you might be sharing your connection with. A 20:1 ratio means you could share your connection with up to 19 other users. A ratio of 100:1 maens sharing with up to 99 other people. The more you share with the slower your internet experience will be.
DSL
Digital Subscriber Line is a means of transmitting data over a standard telephone line.
Firewall
A firewall will protect your computer or network from any unathorised access.
ISP
Internet Service Provider, are the people who organise your link to the internet.
MAC
Migration Authorisation Code. This is a unique digital code that is used by broadband users. If you need to switch your provider, you will need to request your MAC from your current supplier. They will provide one within 5 working days. Your MAC will be in the format of 4 letters, either "BBIP", "FTIP", "BBDS", or "BBDP", followed by 7 to 9 numbers.
Modem
Modem is an acronym made up from the words MOdulator and DEModulator. This piece of hardware allows computers to connect to the internet.
Piggy Backing
A term used to describe people who use a Wireless Broadband connection without authorisation from the owner. If you have a wireless connection to the internet within your home or business, you must make sure it is secured an encrypted. This will allow only the users you authorise to use the connection. Instructions on making the connection secure can be found in the instruction manual that somes with your wireless router. (Some already come pre-setup for you).
SDSL
Similar to ADSL. Another variant of DSL but this time the data flow is the same speed in both directions.
Splitter / Microfilter
If you want to use ADSL to access the internet, each telephone socket in your home must have a Microfilter / Splitter attached to it. These small devices split the data coming in and going out into standard telephone use and that used for the computer (ADSL bit).
Spyware
A piece of software that runs on a PC, usually without detection, that gathers information on the activity of the user. Usually used to collect information for advertising purposes but can be used for other things too.
Wi-Fi
Wireless Fidelity is a means of connection two or more devices on a network wirelessly.
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