Networks

The following are common components that are found in networks:

Servers: a large computer or series of computers designed for applications serving client computers with data over a LAN or WAN.

Router: a dedicated computer that sends packets of information from one place to another.

IP (Internet Protocol): The address of a computer on a TCP/IP (transmission control protocol/internet protocol) network. IP addresses are written as four groups of up to three digits.

POP (Post Office Protocol) and IMAP (Internet Message Access Protocol): POP is a way of retrieving mail from an email server (POP server), although changes are generally not communicated back to the server. IMAP maintains ongoing communication between multiple devices, keeping things updated and in sync.

FIREWALL: A hardware or software system designed to limit access to a computer or a network. Firewalls protect computers from unwanted data coming into the system via the Internet. It can also stop information from getting out, which can be a problem for some artists' projects.

FTP (File Transfer Protocol): standard protocol for transferring files between computers over the Internet.

Streaming Media: Media that is consumed while it is being delivered. This method transfers data in a steady and continuous stream.

Bluetooth: a wireless standard that allows devices like personal digital assistants (PDA), mobile phones, laptops, phones, and digital cameras to communicate with each other, but only within a 10 meter area. (Bluetooth is named after the Danish king Harold Bluetooth, who united area tribes through diplomacy.)

LAN or WAN: a Local Area Network (LAN) is used for home, office or building sized computer networks. A LAN can be as small as two computers sharing a printer and/or an Internet connection, even if they are using a wireless connection. Wide Area Networks (WAN) consist of many computers across a large area, the Internet being an example. WAN can also connect LANs to one another.

Cable, DSL: Cable and DSL are technologies in use in homes and small offices, which allow a computer or a LAN to connect to the Internet. Cable uses the same connection as cable television; Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) uses the phone line.