The Joys of Jargon


This week's article looks at some more jargon - especially the more esoteric items one finds surfing the Internet.

CGI - Common Gateway Interface
A method of getting the server (like your web site server) to carry out a task or function. Examples of this would be a form on a web site or access to a database. Check your Internet service provider's web site for the CGI scripts you can run from your web site.

Cookie
A cookie is a text file that is saved on to your computer when you visit a web site. They are used to store information about your visit and is accessed when you return. If you have ever wondered how a web site "recognises" you on a second or subsequent visit, then a cookie is responsible.

DNS - Domain Name Service
This translates domain names such as "www.suite101.com" into an IP address - 127.0.0.1. This is achieved by a series of linked databases that handles the conversion. As humans, we don't remember numbers too well so this makes using the Internet far easier!

MIME - Multipurpose Internet Mail Extensions
MIME allows a text-only e-mail system to transport binary files such as graphic files. If your e-mail client can send and receive such files then it is MIME compliant.

SMTP - Simple Mail Transfer Protocol
SMTP specifies how e-mail is created and sent over the Internet. Your SMTP setting is used to send your e-mail from your computer to its destination.

POP3 - Point Of Presence
This is your presence on the Internet for your e-mail service. In order that you do not need to be logged on to the Internet the whole time, your POP3 ID is a permanent address that resides on your e-mail server's system. This means that you can receive e-mail whilst not logged on to the Internet.

SSL - Secure Socket Layer
SSL is a method of applying security to a web page for the purpose of entering or transmitting sensitive data like your credit card information. In Internet Explorer, a small padlock appears at the bottom of the screen. Netscape shows a solid key.

Firewall
A firewall is a device typically used on networks to prevent outsiders from gaining access to the network. They prevent access by limiting the ports that are accessible. This means that users on the network can get out, but outsiders cannot get in.

If you use a company machine or a PC at an educational institution where your PC is connected to a network a firewall will be in place.

The copyright of the article The Joys of Jargon in PC Support is owned by Chris Cruickshank. Permission to republish The Joys of Jargon in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

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