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Glossary of technical terms

We try to avoid jargon and to explain technical terms as they arise. But there are specialist terms and this glossary provides some simple definitions.

Convergence

Bringing separate communications systems such as voice and data into a single network.

CPE

Customer premises equipment; any equipment installed within the customer premises.

DECT

Digitally enhanced cordless telephony; a common type of cordless phone.

Ethernet

The most widely used technology standard for creating networks.

Gateway

An interface between different phone systems or networks, for example from a private network to the public switched network.

Gigabyte

One billion bytes; a measure of the quantity of data stored on, or transmitted between, computers.

IP

Internet protocol; the standards, rules and processes that enable voice and data to be transmitted over networks.

IP phones

Phones that operate over data networks using internet protocol rather than the traditional public switched network.

LAN

Local area network; the wired connections and equipment that make up a site or office communications system.

Loading/Load balancing

Spreading work needs across a system.

Messaging

Any system that allows messages to be left.

MPLS

Multi protocol label switching; BT's system that enables any network to connect to any other.

Remote access

Enabling access to central facilities by users based elsewhere.

Router

A device that enables a number of PCs to share an internet connection.

SAN

Storage area network; providing back-up by linking different storage areas together to allow fast access and transfer of data.

Secure networking

Denying network access to unauthorised users.

Softphone

Software that enables a PC or other computer equipment to be used to make and take phone calls.

Structured cabling

A physical cable infrastructure designed and installed to create a LAN.

Switch

Equipment which directs voice or data communication along the paths necessary to get from source to destination.

Unified messaging

Bringing together different forms of messaging such as voice, fax or email for access via a PC.

Uninterrupted power supply

Ensures continuously available back-up power so failures do not affect critical systems and equipment.

USB

Universal serial bus; a common method of connecting equipment together and to a computer.

Voice infrastructure

All the physical equipment and hardware used to make and receive voice calls.

VoIP

Voice over internet protocol; making phone calls over the internet.

VPN

Virtual private network; a network that gives the benefits of a private network but is made up of shared routes.

WAN

Wide area network; the wired connections and equipment that link a number of sites, offices or LANs together.

WLAN

Wireless local area network; an extension to a LAN to enable wireless connection to LAN-based systems and services.

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