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Data
Information stored on the computer system, used by applications to accomplish tasks. Data can be stored on the computer's hard drive, then backed up periodically by being burnt (copied) to CD or DVD.
Defrag
Over time, files become fragmented on the hard drive. This means that data becomes scattered across many segments of the drive. This happens especially if a computer crashes, or is not shut down properly. This will slow down the operation of the computer, as it has to search for all the parts. By running a defragging program, such as the Disk Defragmenter found in Windows System Tools, files can be grouped together again (i.e. change from a fragmented to contiguous state). This makes it quicker for applications to find the files they need and frees up disk space, making the computer run more efficiently.
Denial of Service (DoS)
A type of attack on a network that is designed to bring the network to its knees by flooding it with useless traffic. Many DoS attacks, such as the Ping of Death and Teardrop attacks, exploit limitations in the TCP/IP protocols. For all known DoS attacks, there are software fixes that system administrators can install to limit the damage caused by the attacks. But, like viruses, new DoS attacks are constantly being dreamed up by hackers.
DNS (Domain Name System/Service/Server)
Internet service that translates domain names into IP addresses. Because domain names are alphabetic, they're easier to remember. The Internet however, is really based on IP addresses. Every time you use a domain name, therefore, a DNS service must translate the name into the corresponding IP address. For example, the domain name www.vicnet.net.au translates to 203.10.72.1
Domain Name
A unique alphabetic name assigned to all computers connected to the Internet.
eg. in the URL http://www.vicnet.net.au, vicnet.net.au is the domain name.
You can find the Administrative Contact for any domain by doing a whois lookup on the domain at any number of places, such as easyWHOiS or AusRegistry. See also IP Address, DNS and URL
DOS (Disk Operating System)
MS-DOS was originally developed by Microsoft for IBM as the standard operating system (OS) for personal computers (PCs). DOS does not support multiple users or multitasking, unlike subsequent operating systems such as Windows and Mac.
Driver
A software program that controls a device (mouse, printer, modem, camera etc). Many drivers, such as the keyboard driver, come with the operating system. For other devices, you may need to install a new driver when you first connect the device to your computer, e.g. a webcam. See also Peripheral Device
Download
To copy files from another computer to your own. When you access a webpage, for instance, you are actually downloading the document and all its associated graphics from a web server, via your browser. You can also download pictures, music, programs or text files from the Internet (e.g. from a Website) and save a copy of them on your own computer for your own use, but be aware of Copyright.
DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) - See: ADSL
DVD (Digital Video/Versatile Disc)
Small storage disk, the same size as a CD, but commonly stores up to 4.7Gb (or more if double sided or dual layer). Commonly used for data storage and playing back movies. DVD-R disks can be written to by a burner, whilst RW are reusable, or rewriteable.
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