my connected community (mc2)

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Backup
The term backup usually refers to a disk, drive or tape that contains a copy of original data; or to the act of backing up. Secondary copies are made as a precaution, in case the original data becomes lost or corrupted; either by human error, disk failure, fire or theft. One of the cardinal rules in using computers is to back up your files regularly, as even the most reliable computers can break down. Ideally, multiple backup versions should be made and kept in a different location to the original.

Bandwidth
A measure of how much information or data can be sent in a set amount of time, usually measured in kbps (kilobits per second). Broadband or cable connections allow high bandwidth, so you can transfer information faster than if you are connected to the Internet via a standard 56k modem. Large files, e.g. movies or music require high bandwidth to be downloaded quickly. Note the mc² Code of Conduct states that mc² staff reserve the right to... remove without notice... any file using excessive bandwidth. See also: Broadband

Beta
In software development, Beta testing is done prior to releasing the final (fully tested) product. Beta test versions of software are often distributed on the Web, partly to give the program a "real-world" test, and partly to provide a preview of the next official release. For example, through their website, Microsoft have released a beta version of Internet Explorer 7 for public download and Yahoo have a beta version of a new Yahoo Mail interface available.

Bit
Short for binary digit, the smallest unit of information on a machine. A single bit can hold only one of two values: 0 or 1. More meaningful information is obtained by combining consecutive bits into larger units. For example, a byte is composed of 8 consecutive bits. Graphics are often described by the number of bits used to represent each dot. A 1-bit image is monochrome; an 8-bit image supports 256 colors or grayscales; and a 24- or 32-bit graphic supports true color. See Byte

Blog
Weblogs, commonly referred to as blogs, are a form of personal publishing. A blog is similar to an electronic journal or diary. The writer, known as a blogger, makes periodic entries, sometimes as frequently as a few times a day. Blogs can be on any subject. These musings may be of interest only to the blogger's family and friends or they can command the attention of a global audience. What distinguishes blogs from other online content is that it is highly personal, reflecting the point of view of the blogger.

Boot / Reboot
To boot up a computer means to start it (by switching on the power, which in turn loads the operating system and other basic system software). After installing new software, the user is often requested to reboot [restart] the machine to allow the new software to be recorded in the Registry.

Broadband
Commonly used as a term for high-speed Internet access, broadband is literally a type of data transmission in which a single medium (wire or cable) can carry several channels at once: voice, data & video, e.g. cable TV can also provide fast Internet access. The term has come to be used for any kind of Internet connection with a download speed of more than that of a 56k dial-up connection. Broadband is usually cable or some kind of Digital Subscriber Line, e.g. ADSL. See also: Bandwidth and Modem. ADSL uses technology which allows data to be carried alongside normal calls on standard telephone lines. Cable broadband is carried via optic fibres, which also provide digital TV and telephone services. In each case, the data is carried along lines or cables that have more capacity than conventional ones. Access speed is measured in bits per second: 512 kilobits (512k) is 10 times the speed of dial-up; 1 megabit (1mb) is 20 times faster.

Browser
A software program that lets you view Web pages (and some other Internet resources). Popular browsers include Microsoft Internet Explorer (IE) (which comes bundled with the Windows operating System); Safari (which comes with the Mac) and Mozilla Firefox. Other browsers include Opera. In the early days of the Web, Netscape Navigator was popular. You can check your browser version here. See also: Browser Helper Objects (BHO)

Browser Helper Object (BHO)
A small program that runs automatically every time you start your browser. Usually, a BHO is installed on your system by another software program. Some BHO's are malicious spyware components which attach themselves limpet-like to your browser and act as a toolbar or other plug-in that is hard to remove or uninstall. The worst of these can radically change browser settings, including home pages and bookmarks, and make it difficult or impossible for people to change settings back, without their knowing how to manipulate the Windows Registry.