Understanding Computer Terms
server
A computer with a large hard drive that serves (provides information to) other computers connected to it on a network. In a local area network, several computers in the same room or all the computers in a high-rise office building may be connected to a server. The server stores everyone’s files. The Internet is the largest computer network in the world. It is a network of servers. When you send or receive e-mail, it travels through a series of servers to which both the sender’s and receiver’s computer are connected through a modem. When you enter a Web site address in the address box of your browser, Internet protocol commands the Web server to locate the site you requested, transmit the files to your computer, and display them on your monitor.
session
As defined in the Orange Book, a recorded segment of a CD that may contain one or more tracks of any type (data or audio). In data recording, there is usually only one track per session. In audio recording, all audio tracks are contained in a single session. A lead-in and lead-out are recorded for every session on a CD.
session-at-once
Session-at-once is a subset of disc-at-once, used for CD Extra. In session-at-once recording, a first session containing multiple audio tracks is recorded in a single pass; the laser is then turned off, but the CD is not closed. A second (data) session is then written and the CD is closed.
shareware
Software you can try before you buy. After a trial period, usually 30 days, the program either uninstalls or refuses you access unless you pay for it. You can download shareware from the Internet. See software.
Learning More About Your Computer | 5–29 |