Jargon Buster

Glossory of Terms

• API - (Application Programming Interface) A set of protocols, routines, and tools for building software and applications. APIs enable different software applications to communicate and share data with each other seamlessly.

• ADSL - (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line) A broadband technology that uses existing copper telephone lines to deliver internet connectivity. The 'asymmetric' part refers to different speeds for download (faster) and upload (slower).

• Bandwidth - A measure of the amount of data that can be transmitted over a network in a given amount of time. Higher bandwidth allows for faster data transmission speeds and better internet performance.

• CLI - (Calling Line Identification) A feature that allows the recipient of a call to view the phone number of the caller before answering. CLI is commonly used in telecommunications to identify incoming calls.

• Contention Ratio - The number of users sharing the same bandwidth on an internet connection. A lower contention ratio typically means better performance as fewer users are competing for the same bandwidth.

• Cybersecurity - The practice of protecting internet-connected systems, including hardware, software, and data, from attack, damage, or unauthorized access. Cybersecurity measures aim to safeguard against threats such as malware, hacking, and data breaches.

• Data Centre - A secure facility that houses computer systems and associated components, such as telecommunications and storage systems. Data centres are used to store, process, and manage large volumes of data for organizations.

• DOCSIS - (Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification) A telecommunications standard that enables high-bandwidth data transfer over existing cable TV systems. Used by cable internet providers to deliver broadband services.

• ETC - (Early Termination Charge) A fee charged by service providers when a contract is terminated before the agreed-upon end date. ETCs are often applied to contracts for services such as internet, mobile, or television.

• Exchange - A central hub where telecommunications equipment is located. Local telephone exchanges house the equipment that connects homes and businesses to the broader telecommunications network.

• Fibre Broadband - A high-speed internet connection that utilizes optical fiber cables to transmit data. Fibre broadband offers faster speeds and greater reliability compared to traditional copper-based connections.

• Firewall - A network security system that monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules. Firewalls help prevent unauthorized access to a network and protect against cyber threats such as malware and hacking.

• FTTC - (Fibre To The Cabinet) A broadband network technology used to deliver high-speed internet services to homes and businesses. FTTC connects a service provider's central office or distribution point to a street cabinet or utility pole near the customer's premises, enabling faster internet speeds than traditional copper-based connections.

• FTTP - (Fibre To The Premises) A network technology used to provide high-speed internet access directly to homes and businesses. FTTP connects a service provider's central office or distribution point directly to the customer's premises, offering faster and more reliable internet speeds compared to other technologies.

• Gbit/s - (Gigabit per second) A unit of data transfer speed equal to one billion bits per second. Gbit/s is commonly used to measure the speed of internet connections and network bandwidth.

• Hardware - Physical components of a computer, such as the central processing unit (CPU), memory, and storage. Hardware is tangible and includes devices like desktop computers, laptops, servers, and networking equipment.

• IP address - A unique numerical label assigned to each device connected to the internet for communication purposes. IP addresses enable devices to identify and communicate with each other on a network, facilitating data transmission and internet connectivity.

• IPv6 - The latest version of the Internet Protocol (IP) addressing system, offering a vastly larger address space than IPv4. This enables more devices to have unique addresses on the internet.

• ISDN Services - (Integrated Services Digital Network) A set of communication standards used for transmitting voice, video, and data over digital telephone lines. ISDN services provide high-quality connections and support various applications such as video conferencing and internet access.

• Latency - The time delay between sending and receiving data over a network, often measured in milliseconds (ms). Lower latency means more responsive internet connections, which is particularly important for gaming and video calls.

• M2M - (Machine-to-Machine) Communication between devices or systems without human intervention. M2M technology enables devices to exchange data and perform actions automatically, facilitating applications such as remote monitoring and control.

• Mbit/s - (Megabit per second) A unit of data transfer speed equal to one million bits per second. Mbit/s is commonly used to measure the speed of internet connections and network bandwidth.

• Malware - Malicious software designed to damage, disrupt, steal, or gain unauthorized access to a computer system. Common types of malware include viruses, worms, trojans, ransomware, and spyware, which can pose significant threats to computer security and data privacy.

• NGN - (Next Generation Network) A telecommunications infrastructure that combines traditional voice, data, and video services with new technologies and protocols. NGN provides enhanced capabilities and flexibility for delivering multimedia communication services.

• OFCOM - (Office of Communications) The UK's communications regulator, responsible for overseeing broadcasting, telecommunications, and postal industries. They set and enforce rules for internet service providers.

• PAC - (Porting Authorisation Code) A unique code provided by a mobile network operator that allows a customer to transfer their existing phone number to another network provider. PACs are used during the process of switching mobile service providers while retaining the same phone number.

• PON - (Passive Optical Network) A system that brings fiber optic cabling and signals all or most of the way to the end user. Used in FTTP deployments to share a single optical fiber among multiple end-points.

• SIM-Only - A mobile phone plan that provides a SIM card without a handset. SIM-only plans typically offer lower monthly costs compared to traditional mobile contracts and are suitable for users who already own a compatible phone.

• SLA - (Service Level Agreements) A contractual agreement between a service provider and a customer that defines the level of service, performance standards,

• SOGEA - (Single Order Generic Ethernet Access) A type of broadband network technology used to deliver high-speed internet services to homes and businesses. SOGEA provides a direct Ethernet connection without the need for a traditional phone line, offering faster and more reliable internet speeds.

• SIP - (Session Initiated Protocol) A communications protocol used for initiating, maintaining, and terminating real-time sessions between devices over the internet. SIP is widely used for voice and video calls, instant messaging, and multimedia conferencing.

• SIP Trunking - A service that enables businesses to connect their Private Branch Exchange (PBX) phone system to the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) using SIP protocols over the internet. SIP trunking allows for cost-effective and flexible voice communication solutions.

• Software - Programs and applications installed on a computer that allow it to perform specific functions. Software includes operating systems, productivity tools, games, and other applications that enable users to interact with their devices and perform tasks.

• Static IP - An IP address that remains constant and does not change each time a device connects to the internet. Static IPs are often used for hosting websites, running servers, and remote access applications that require consistent IP addresses.

• Traffic Management - Policies and systems used by ISPs to prioritise certain types of internet traffic or manage network congestion during peak times. May affect the speed of specific services or applications. We do not operate any traffic management.

• Unified Communications - An integrated communication system that combines various communication tools and channels into a single platform. Unified communications solutions typically include voice, video, messaging, presence, and collaboration capabilities for enhanced productivity and efficiency.

• VDSL - (Very-high-bit-rate Digital Subscriber Line) A faster variant of DSL technology, commonly used in FTTC deployments to provide higher speeds over shorter copper wire distances.

• VPN - (Virtual Private Network) A private network built over a public infrastructure, allowing users to securely send data over public networks. VPNs encrypt data traffic to protect it from interception and ensure privacy and security, particularly when accessing the internet from unsecured or public Wi-Fi networks.