Bookmark
A pointer you use to record the URL of the Web page you are currently viewing for future reference.

Cache
When you display Web pages, your browser stores these pages in a special directory called the "cache directory". In Netscape, the directory is: c:\netscape\cache. The cache is used by the browser to redisplay the same page(s) you displayed during your current Internet session, without having to download it from the Web again.

Client
The computer that connects to the server via the Internet.

Dialup Connection
The action taken by the PC and modem to connect to the Internet by telephone lines.

Domain Name
An alternative name or "alias" for an official Internet address. For example, if AOTA's official address were something like 876.54.32.10, its alias would be: AOTA, such as www.aota.org .

Download
Retrieving files, graphics, or other information from the Internet.

E-Mail Address
The Internet address of a "post office" belonging to an individual or group.

Home Page
An individual, organization or company maintains Web pages at a "Web site." The site may contain many pages. However, the first page that you arrive at after accessing the site is called the "home page."

HTML
HyperText Markup Language. A set of commands, commonly called "tags," that instruct the Web browser how to show text and graphics in a Web page. So if someone asks you if you know HTML, it means can you develop a Web page.

HTTP
HyperText Transfer Protocol. This is a set of rules used in the transmission/reception of Web pages.

GIF and JPEG
The two common graphic file formats used on the various home pages of the Web. GIF stands for Graphics Interchange Format. JPEG stands for Joint Photographic Experts Group.

InterNIC
The organization that registers domain names.

ISDN
Integrated Services Digital Network. This service represents a much higher speed connection to the Internet and is available in some areas through arrangements with your local telephone company. Special modems and phone lines are needed.

ISP
Internet Service Provider, the company or facility that offers you connectivity to the Internet and the World Wide Web. Also referred to as an access provider.

LAN
Local Area Network. This is a collection of computers, usually within an organization, connected together by cables.

Listserv
The software that is used to create and automatically distribute information to people on a mailing list.

LYNX
Lynx is the name for a Unix-based, non-graphical Web browser.

Netiquete
A combination of net and etiquette, referring to the rules of polite behavior on the Internet.

Search Engine
A Web-based service you use to search for information by entering key words. Search engines include Yahoo!, AltaVista, Excite, and DejaNews.

Server
A computer that contains files and Web pages for access via the Internet.

Snail Mail
Traditional mail involving paper, stamps, the post office.

SPAM
The junk mail transmitted to millions of e-mail boxes by marketers.

Upload
Transferring files, graphics, etc. from your computer to another computer.

URL
Universal Resource Locator. The official name for a Web site address, for example http://www.aota.org .

Web Browser
A software program residing on your computer that allows you to access pages on the Web. Two most common Web browsers are Netscape and Microsoft Internet Explorer.

WEBCAM
A video camera connected to a Web server, offering someone who accesses that Web site with a view of whatever the camera is aimed at.

WWW
The World Wide Web, referred to as The Web.