Glossary
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Client
A desktop or mobile computer connected to a network.
DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol)
A protocol designed to automatically assign an IP address to every computer on your network.
DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) Modem
A modem that uses existing phone lines to transmit data at high speeds.
Encryption
A method to allow wireless data transmissions a level of security.
Ethernet Network
A standard wired networking configuration using cables and hubs.
IP (Internet Protocol) Address
A series of four numbers separated by periods identifying a unique Internet computer host.
LAN (Local Area Network)
A group of computers and devices connected together in a relatively small area (such as a house or an office). A home network is considered a LAN.
MAC (Media Access Control) Address
The hardware address of a device connected to a network.
NAT (Network Address Translation)
A method allowing all of the computers on a home network to use one IP address, enabling access to the Internet from any computer on the home net- work without having to purchase more IP addresses from the ISP.
Router
A central device that manages the data traffic of your network.
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