Commonly Used Internet Terms and Concepts

In this blog we will discuss some of the commonly used internet terms and concepts.

General Internet Terms

1. Bandwidth – The maximum data transfer rate of a network or internet connection.
2. IP Address – A unique numerical label assigned to each device connected to the internet.
3. Domain Name – The user-friendly address of a website (e.g., google.com).
4. DNS (Domain Name System) – Translates domain names into IP addresses.
5. URL (Uniform Resource Locator) – The web address used to access a website.
6. HTTP (HyperText Transfer Protocol) – The protocol used for transferring data on the web.
7. HTTPS – A secure version of HTTP that encrypts data using SSL/TLS.
8. Server – A computer that hosts websites and services on the internet.
9. Client – A device or application that accesses information from a server.
10. VPN (Virtual Private Network) – A service that encrypts internet traffic for privacy.

Related- HTTP vs HTTPS

Web and Browsing Terms

11. Browser – Software used to access and navigate the internet (e.g., Chrome, Firefox).
12. Cache – Temporary storage that helps load web pages faster.
13. Cookies – Small data files stored on a user’s device to track website activity.
14. Incognito Mode – A private browsing mode that does not save history or cookies.
15. Bookmark – A saved link to a website for quick access.
16. Search Engine – A tool used to find information on the web (e.g., Google, Bing).
17. SEO (Search Engine Optimization) – The process of improving a website’s visibility in search results.
18. Homepage – The main page of a website.
19. Hyperlink – A clickable link that directs users to another page or website.
20. Captcha – A test to verify that a user is human, preventing bots from accessing sites.

Networking and Connectivity

21. Wi-Fi – A wireless technology for internet access.
22. Router – A device that connects networks and directs internet traffic.
23. Firewall – A security system that monitors and controls network traffic.
24. Ethernet – A wired network connection for internet access.
25. Modem – A device that connects to an ISP (Internet Service Provider) for internet access.
26. Cloud Computing – Storing and accessing data over the internet instead of on local devices.
27. Latency – The delay in data transmission between devices.
28. Ping – A command used to test network connectivity between devices.
29. Bandwidth Throttling – Slowing down internet speed based on usage.
30. Packet – A small unit of data transmitted over a network.

Social Media and Communication

31. DM (Direct Message) – A private message sent on social media platforms.
32. Hashtag (#) – A keyword preceded by “#” used to categorize content on social media.
33. Meme – A humorous image, video, or text spread online.
34. Tagging – Mentioning someone in a post or comment.
35. Viral – Content that spreads rapidly online.
36. Troll – A person who posts inflammatory or disruptive comments online.
37. Emoji – Small icons representing emotions, objects, or symbols.
38. GIF (Graphics Interchange Format) – A short animated image used in online communication.
39. Influencer – A social media user with a large following who affects public opinion.
40. Story – A temporary post that disappears after a set time, common on platforms like Instagram and Facebook.

Cybersecurity and Privacy

41. Phishing – A fraudulent attempt to obtain sensitive information through fake emails or messages.
42. Malware – Harmful software, including viruses, worms, and spyware.
43. Ransomware – A type of malware that locks files until a ransom is paid.
44. Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) – An extra layer of security requiring two forms of verification.
45. Encryption – Securing data by converting it into unreadable code.
46. Hacker – A person who gains unauthorized access to systems or networks.
47. DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service) – An attack that overwhelms a website with traffic to crash it.
48. Spyware – Software that secretly collects user data.
49. Botnet – A network of infected devices controlled by hackers.
50. Zero-Day Exploit – A security vulnerability that is unknown to the vendor and exploited by hackers.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Rashmi Bhardwaj

I am here to share my knowledge and experience in the field of networking with the goal being – “The more you share, the more you learn.”

I am a biotechnologist by qualification and a Network Enthusiast by interest. I developed interest in networking being in the company of a passionate Network Professional, my husband.

I am a strong believer of the fact that “learning is a constant process of discovering yourself.”
– Rashmi Bhardwaj (Author/Editor)