Dictionary of Computer and Internet Words: An A to Z Guide to Hardware, Software, and Cyberspace

by American Heritage Publishing Company

• ISBN13: 9780618101375
• ISBN10: 0618101373
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2001-06-01
• Publisher: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt

Summary

An indispensable tool for novices as well as seasoned computer users, the Dictionary of Computer and Internet Words takes the mystery out of computer and Internet terminology. It puts all the information computer users need right at their fingertips, in entries that fully explain the technology without a lot of technological jargon. The Dictionary of Computer and Internet Words will help readers make their way successfully through computer manuals, help files, websites, and the computer section of the newspaper. It contains hundreds of completely new entries covering topics from degaussers to denial-of-service attacks, from exabytes to e-zines, from hash functions to heat sinks. Here is a sample of the new information found in the Dictionary of Computer and Internet Words: MIS -- Abbreviation of management information system. A computer system designed for a place of business that allows managers to organize, manipulate, and access data efficiently and effectively. The nature of the system can vary from an expensive mainframe to a local area network. packet sniffer -- A program that intercepts data transmitted over the Internet and translates it back into readable text. Network administrators use packet sniffers to help locate and relieve network congestion. Packet sniffers are also used for illicit purposes such as obtaining passwords or credit card numbers. petabyte -- A unit of measurement of computer memory or data storage capacity equal to 1,125,899,906,842,624 (250) bytes. One petabyte equals 1,024 terabytes.

Author Biography

The Editors of the American Heritage Dictionaries and of other reference titles published by Houghton Mifflin Company are trained lexicographers with a varied array of interests and expertise. Most of the editors hold graduate degrees and have studied at least one foreign language. Several have degrees in linguistics or in the history of the English language. Others have degrees in science or sometimes other disciplines. All the editors familiarize themselves with the vocabulary in specific subject areas, collect materials on new developments and usage, and work in association with consultants to ensure that the content of our publications is as accurate and as up-to-date as possible.