The most common (and popular) domain name extension, “.com” was originally designed for use by commercial ventures but has since become the primary choice for new websites, commercial or not.

One of the three top-level domain name extensions, “.net” was originally used to signify a network website, such as that used by technical support or client account access. There are no restrictions on who can register a .net domain name so it is often used when the .com version is already taken.

Originally designed for non-profit groups and others who didn’t meet the .com and .net criteria, “.org” is one of the three top-level domain name extensions. Like the other two, there are no restrictions as to who may register a .org domain name.

A version of DSL Internet service, ADSL is an acronym for “asymmetric digital subscriber line” and is a popular DSL option for home-based subscribers. ADSL does not travel over long distances so the subscriber is usually required to be within 3 miles of the telephone company’s local office. ASDL offers a fast download rate, usually at 512 kbps with uploads at a slower 128 kbps (average).

A browser is a free software package that converts the various Internet-related codes into readable pages. Popular examples include Internet Explorer, Netscape, Firefox Mozilla and Avant.

Internet access provided through a client’s cable TV wiring.

The most traditional and inexpensive method of Internet access, dial-up uses a modem to “dial” the local Internet provider’s computer to gain access to the Internet.

An easy-to-use naming method created by computer scientists to identify individual websites. ABCStore.org, MyStore.net and NetZero.com are just a few examples.

The process copying a file that is stored on the Internet “down” onto your personal computer.

“Digital Subscriber Line” is a high-speed option for Internet access. Internet service is provided through the client’s telephone line but does not interfere with regular telephone usage.

“Electronic Mail” allows a user to compose, store and send communications over the Internet and or a private intranet.

Internet access with download and/or upload speeds faster than traditional dial-up. This is usually accomplished via DSL, Cable or Satellite connections but some ISP providers now offer a high-speed dial-up version as well.

Hyper-Text Markup Language refers to the “code” running behind the web pages you see in your browser window. This code instructs your browser on how to interpret and present the text - <b>Bold</b> for example.

Hyper-Text Transfer Protocol is the used to transport information on the Internet.

A combination of ISDN and DSL that allows “DSL-like” Internet access for customers located outside the distance limit of 18,000 feet from the telephone company’s local hub office.

A string of numbers used to identify a particular website – 192.65.40.2 for example. To simplify this process and make it easier to remember website addresses, scientists came up with the domain name system that masks the numerical string with an easy-to-remember alpha name.

The acronym for Internet Service Provider, which is the company that provides you with access to the Internet.

A device that allows subscribers to access the Internet using their regular phone line or cable wiring (cable modem).

A group of computers “tied together” to form a network that allows communication and/or file sharing within the group.

A secret word chosen by the user and used in conjunction with a user name to validate identity before allowing access to personal information or accounts.

Internet access provided through a Satellite carrier.

Unwanted messages received in the form of emails, forum or blog postings, mobile messages and/or instant messages.

The process of transferring a file from your personal computer to another location on the Internet.

"Universal Resource Locator" is a reference to a particular web address or location, i.e., our URL is http://www.NetZero-Promo.com.

Used in conjunction with a password to help validate identity before allowing access to personal information or accounts.

A malicious software program that can cause a variety of problems for its victim. Viruses can cause the computer to malfunction, erase files and steal passwords to name a few examples.

Voice over IP is technology that allows users to talk over the Internet just as you would with a traditional telephone.