Jargon buster
Analogue Device
An analogue device refers to any equipment that can be connected to a standard analogue line. Examples include telephones, fax machines, modems, and franking machines.
Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line (ADSL)
Bandwidth
Bandwidth refers to the maximum rate at which data can be transferred over a network connection in a given amount of time, usually measured in bits per second (bps). It determines how much information can be sent or received in a specific timeframe, influencing the overall performance and speed of a network or internet connection.
Byte
A byte is a unit of digital information that typically consists of 8 bits. It is commonly used to represent a single character, such as a letter, number, or symbol in computer systems. Bytes are fundamental to measuring data storage and memory in computers.
Megabyte = 1,000,000 bytes
Gigabyte = 1,000,000,000 bytes
Terabyte = 1,000,000,000,000 bytes
Calling Line Identity_(CLI)
Is the telephone number linked to a specific line. This number can be displayed or hidden during a call, and users have the option to present a different CLI if they wish.
Cloud
The cloud refers to a network of remote servers hosted on the internet that store, manage, and process data, rather than relying on local servers or personal computers. This technology enables users to access and use resources such as storage, applications, and services over the internet from anywhere, at any time, using various devices.
Digital Enhanced Cordless Telephony_(DECT)
Digital Enhanced Cordless Telephony (DECT) is the technology that offers improved clarity and compact designs for cordless handsets.
Domain Name System (DNS)
A system that translates human-friendly domain names (like www.example.com) into IP addresses that computers use to identify each other on the network.
Download
The process of transferring data from a server or the internet to your device, allowing you to access files, applications, or media.
Downtime
The period during which a system, service, or application is unavailable or not operational, often due to maintenance or technical issues.
Digital Subscriber Line (DSL)
A technology that provides high-speed internet access over traditional telephone lines, allowing simultaneous use of the phone and internet.
Ducts
Tubes or conduits used to house and protect telecommunications cables, facilitating organised and secure installations.
Encryption
The process of converting data into a coded format to prevent unauthorised access, ensuring that only authorised users can read or access the information.
Ethernet
A widely used networking technology for local area networks (LANs) that enables devices to communicate over a wired connection.
Excess Construction Charges (ECCs)
Additional fees incurred for construction work required to install or upgrade telecommunications services beyond the standard provisions.
Fibre
Refers to optical fibre, a thin strand of glass or plastic that transmits data as light signals, offering high-speed internet connections.
Fibre To The Cabinet (FTTC)
A broadband connection where fibre optic cables run to a street cabinet, and copper cables connect the cabinet to individual homes, providing faster speeds than traditional DSL.
Fibre To The Premises (FTTP)
A high-speed internet connection that delivers fibre optic cables directly to individual homes or businesses, enabling faster and more reliable service.
Fibre-Optic
Technology that uses light to transmit data through thin strands of glass or plastic fibres, providing high bandwidth and speed for internet connections.
Filter
A device used to separate different types of signals on a line, such as separating voice and data on a telephone line to prevent interference.
Firewall
A security system that monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules, protecting networks from unauthorised access.
Gateway
A device that connects two different networks, allowing data to flow between them, often serving as a translator between different protocols.
Generic Ethernet Access
A service that provides broadband access via Ethernet technology, typically used for business connections.
Gigabyte (GB)
A unit of digital information storage equal to 1,024 megabytes (MB), commonly used to measure file sizes or storage capacity.
Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN)
A set of communication standards for transmitting voice, video, and data over traditional telephone networks, providing high-quality connections.
Kilobyte (KB)
A unit of digital information storage equal to 1,024 bytes, often used to measure small files or data sizes.
Landline
A traditional telephone service that operates over physical copper wires, used for voice communication.
Latency
The time delay between sending a request for data and receiving a response, affecting the speed of online activities like gaming or streaming.
Letter of Authority (LOA)
A document that authorises a third party to act on behalf of a customer in matters related to their telecommunications services.
Local Area Network (LAN)
A network that connects computers and devices within a limited area, such as a home or office, allowing them to share resources and communicate.
Mbps (Megabits per second)
Mbps is a measure of internet speed that shows how fast data is transferred over a network. It stands for “Megabits per second”, where one megabit is equal to 1 million bits (small units of digital information). Higher Mbps means faster speeds, which allows you to download or stream content more quickly.
For example, an internet speed of 100 Mbps means that up to 100 megabits of data can be transferred in one second. This term measures bandwidth, not file size (which is typically measured in MB or Gigabytes (GB).
Megabyte (MB)
A unit of digital information storage equal to 1,024 kilobytes (KB), commonly used to measure file sizes or storage capacity.
OFCOM
Industry, ensuring fair competition, and protecting consumer interests.
Openreach
A subsidiary of BT Group that manages the physical network infrastructure for broadband and telephone services in the UK.
Power Over Ethernet (POE)
A technology that allows electrical power to be transmitted along with data over Ethernet cables, enabling devices like cameras and phones to operate without separate power sources.
Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN)
The traditional circuit-switched network used for telephone communication, which connects landlines and mobile phones.
Router
A device that forwards data packets between computer networks, directing internet traffic and allowing multiple devices to connect to the internet.
Server
A computer or system that provides data, resources, or services to other computers (clients) over a network.
Single Order Generic Ethernet Access (SoGEA)
A broadband service that provides a single connection to the internet via Ethernet, typically for homes and businesses without a traditional phone line.
Streaming
The process of delivering audio or video content over the internet in real-time, allowing users to watch or listen without downloading the entire file first.
The Last Mile
The final leg of the telecommunications network that connects the service provider to the end-user’s premises, often considered the most challenging part of the network.
Upload Speed
The rate at which data can be sent from a user’s device to the internet, crucial for activities like sending files or participating in video calls.
Virtual Private Network (VPN)
A secure connection that encrypts data transmitted over the internet, allowing users to browse anonymously and access restricted content.
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP)
A technology that enables voice communication over the internet instead of traditional phone lines, allowing for more flexible and often cheaper calling options.
WAN (Wide Area Network)
A telecommunications network that extends over a large geographical area, connecting multiple local area networks (LANs) and enabling communication between distant sites.
Wi-Fi
A technology that allows devices to connect to the internet wirelessly using radio waves, enabling internet access without the need for physical cables.
What is a SPID
A SPID is your property’s Supply Point Identifier – find out more about SPIDs