Glossary E - I

ETHERNET

A common method of networking computers is LAN. There is more than one type of Ethernet (see LAN).

EURO ISDN

A name for ISDN is defined by the relevant European ETSI standards.

EXTRANET

An Intranet that is accessible to computers that are not physically part of a company's own private network, but that is not accessible to the general public – for example, to allow vendors and business partners to access a company web site.

FIREWALL

A security system that prevents computers on a network from communicating directly with computers on another network. Instead, all communication is routed through a proxy server, which determines whether a particular message or file may pass to or from the host.

GATEWAY

A hardware or software set up that translates between two dissimilar protocols, for example AOL has a gateway that translates between its internal, proprietary email format and internet email format. Another meaning is to describe any mechanism for providing access to another system.

HIPER LAN

A wireless LAN protocol developed by ETSI (European Telecommunications Standards Institute) akin to 802.11. There are two types of Hiper LAN, both operating in the 5GHz band. Hiper LAN/1 provides data rates up to 20 Mbps and Hiper LAN/2 data rates up to 54 Mbps.

HOST

Any computer on a network that is a repository for services available to other computers. It is common to have one host machine providing several services, such as SMTP (email) and HTTP (web).

HTML

Abbreviation for Hypertext Markup Language, a language used for creating documents for the World Wide Web. HTML uses a special code that tells Web browsers how to display elements such as text and images in a document.

INTERNET SERVICE PROVIDERS (ISPS)

An Internet service provider maintains a server that is directly connected to the Internet. You must connect through a service provider unless you are directly connected to the Internet. Connecting to a service provider entails calling the provider and setting up a PPP account.

IP – INTERNET PROTOCOL

The signalling standard used to transmit data across the Internet and LANs. IP uses packet switching techniques to send data in small chunks (packets).

IP PHONES

IP phones/handsets generally offer all the powerful performance features that you get with other types of desktop phones, whilst allowing you to benefit from all the advantages of tapping into an IP based solution. IP phones are an efficient tool for demanding individual users who are often on the move.

IP TELEPHONY

The use of IP signalling methods to send voice traffic across a data network. Voice signals are broken down into packets and reassembled at the receiving end. Eliminates the need for spate voice and data networks by converging all traffic on one network.

IP GATEWAY/VOIP GATEWAY

A gateway for an existing telephone system, which converts normal circuit switched telephony traffic into IP for transmission over a data network, such as a private data network between two sites.

INTRANET

A private network inside a company or organization that uses the same kinds of software that you would find on the public Internet, but which is only for internal use.

ISDN2

ISDN2 is a digital solution that gives you voice, data and fast access to the Internet for two to eight users. The connection offers speeds up to twice as fast as an analogue modem when the two channels are combined. One of the major benefits of ISDN is its compatibility with most of today's existing telephone/communications infrastructures which allows businesses to benefit from simultaneous use of the telephone and Internet at the same time. Charges for ISDN are based on line rental and levels of usage, there are a range of suppliers to choose from all with varying price tariffs.

ISDN30

ISDN30 is a sophisticated digital solution which enhances your voice, data and Internet access for between eight to thirty users. The connection offers speeds up to twice as fast as an analogue modem. ISDN30 offers clear, secure digital line of voice traffic and can be used to send data over a secure connection to other PCs. Charges for ISDN are based on line rental and levels of usage, there are a range of suppliers to choose from all with varying price tariffs.

IVR – INTERACTIVE VOICE RESPONSE

IVR systems automate routine transactions, such as requests for literature or information by using voice recognition or pone keypad operations.