Internet Speed Glossary

Bandwidth
The maximum rate of data transfer across a given path in a network, typically measured in bits per second (bps).
Bandwidth Cap
A limit imposed by an ISP on the amount of data that can be transferred over a network connection in a given time period.
Bandwidth Throttling
The intentional slowing of internet service by an ISP, often used to regulate network traffic and minimize bandwidth congestion.
Broadband
A high-capacity transmission technique using a wide range of frequencies, allowing for fast internet connections.
Buffering
The process of preloading data into a reserved area of memory (a buffer) to prevent interruptions during streaming or downloading.
Coaxial Cable
A type of electrical cable commonly used for cable internet connections, consisting of an inner conductor surrounded by insulating layer and metallic shield.
DNS (Domain Name System)
A system that translates human-readable domain names into IP addresses, affecting the speed of initial connections to websites.
Download Speed
The rate at which data is transferred from the internet to your device, typically measured in Mbps (megabits per second).
Dynamic IP Address
An IP address that is automatically assigned to a device by a network when it connects, which can change over time.
Ethernet
A wired networking technology that provides a fast and stable internet connection through a physical cable connection.
Fiber-optic
A high-speed internet technology that uses thin glass or plastic fibers to transmit data using pulses of light.
Firewall
A network security system that monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules.
Gateway
A network node that serves as an access point to another network, often used to connect different network architectures.
IP Address
A unique string of numbers separated by periods that identifies each computer using the Internet Protocol to communicate over a network.
IPv6
The most recent version of the Internet Protocol (IP), designed to replace IPv4, providing a vastly larger address space.
ISP
Internet Service Provider, a company that provides internet access to customers.
Jitter
The variation in latency or delay of received packets in a network transmission.
Latency
The time it takes for data to travel from its source to its destination, often measured in milliseconds (ms).
MAC Address
A hardware identification number that uniquely identifies each device on a network.
Mbps
Megabits per second, a unit of data transfer rate. 1 Mbps = 1,000,000 bits per second.
Mesh Network
A network topology where each node relays data for the network, providing multiple paths for data to travel, enhancing reliability and coverage.
Modem
A device that modulates and demodulates signals for data transmission over telephone lines or cable systems.
NAT (Network Address Translation)
A method used by routers to translate a public IP address into a private IP address and vice versa, allowing multiple devices on a local network to share a single public IP address.
Network Protocol
A set of rules and conventions for communication between network devices, ensuring data is transmitted correctly.
Packet Loss
The failure of data packets to reach their destination during transmission over a network, often resulting in slower performance or connection issues.
Ping
A network utility used to test the reachability of a host and measure the round-trip time for messages sent to that host.
Ping Rate
The frequency at which ping tests are conducted to measure the latency of a network connection.
Port Forwarding
A networking technique that allows external devices to access services on a private network by redirecting communication requests from one address and port number to another.
Proxy Server
An intermediary server separating end users from the websites they browse, providing varying levels of functionality, security, and privacy.
QoS (Quality of Service)
A set of technologies and techniques used to manage and prioritize network traffic, ensuring better performance for critical applications.
Router
A device that forwards data packets between computer networks, directing the data along the most efficient routes.
SSID (Service Set Identifier)
A unique ID that consists of 32 characters and is used for naming wireless networks.
Static IP Address
An IP address that is manually configured for a device and remains constant, often used for servers and other critical devices.
Symmetric vs. Asymmetric Internet
Symmetric internet offers equal download and upload speeds, while asymmetric (more common) typically provides faster download than upload speeds.
TCP/IP
A suite of communication protocols used to interconnect network devices on the internet, with TCP ensuring reliable transmission and IP handling addressing and routing.
Throughput
The actual amount of data successfully transferred over a network connection in a given time period.
Traceroute
A network diagnostic tool used to track the pathway taken by a packet on an IP network from source to destination.
Upload Speed
The rate at which data is transferred from your device to the internet, typically measured in Mbps (megabits per second).
VPN (Virtual Private Network)
A service that encrypts your internet traffic and protects your online identity by creating a private network from a public internet connection.
Wi-Fi
A wireless networking technology that allows devices to connect to the internet or communicate with one another without the need for cables.