Glossary
path The hardware address of a device that is attached to the I/O system of your workstation.
pathname A series of names separated by slashes that describe the path of the operating system from some starting point in the network to a destination ob- ject. Pathnames begin with the name of the starting point, and include every directory name between the starting point and the destination object. A pathname ends with the name of the destination ob- ject. See also name, object.
permissions A set of rights (read, write, execute) associated with an object in the file system. Determines who may use the object.
PID Process Identification. Also referred to as a process ID. See also process ID.
pointer Sometimes called the “mouse pointer,” the pointer shows the mouse location on the screen. The pointer’s shape depends on its location. In the HP VUE Workspace, the pointer is an X. On a window frame, the pointer is an arrow.
process A computing environment in which you may execute programs; a program currently running in the system.
process ID A unique identification number assigned to all processes by the operating system. Also referred to as a PID. See also PID.
program A unit of executable code, in binary or “source” form. Most
grams.
prompt A message or symbol displayed by the system to let you know that it is ready for your input.
push button A graphic control that simulates a
RAM Random access memory.
ROM
root See superuser.
scroll bar A vertical or horizontal bar located on the side or bottom of a window that allows the user to view information that does not fit within the window.
SCSI See Small Computer System Interface .
server A program that controls all access to input and output devices.
session The time between when you log in and when you log out. Also called a work session or a login session. See also current session.
shell A
shell command An instruction you
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