TCP/IP protocols are used for Internet communications and consist of:
TCP (Transmission Control Protocol), which uses a set of rules to exchange messages with other Internet points
IP (Internet Protocol), which uses a set of rules to identify Internet addresses on the Internet. Every computer on the Internet has a unique IP address. The IP protocol helps Internet users to identify each sender or receiver of information that is sent across the Internet
VPN
Virtual Private Network: The use of encryption in the lower protocol layers to provide a secure connection through an otherwise insecure network, typically the Internet.
BBS (Bulletin Board Service)
A computer and associated software that typically provides an electronic message database where people can log in and leave messages. Apart from public message areas, a BBS may provide archives of files, personal electronic mail, and any other services or activities of interest to the bulletin board's system operator (the "sysop").
News Forum
An electronic meeting place where people can exchange news or discuss common interests.
Hacker
A person who enjoys exploring the details of programmable systems and how to stretch their capabilities, as opposed to most users, who prefer to learn only the minimum necessary. Recently misused to describe a Cracker. See the next item.
Cracker
An individual who attempts to gain unauthorized access to a computer system. These individuals are often malicious. Contrary to widespread myth, cracking does not usually involve some mysterious leap of hackerly brilliance, but rather persistence and the dogged repetition of a handful of fairly
Firmware
Software stored in