Summary

30 virtual private networkvirtual private network (VPN) An encryptionsystem that protects data as it travels, or tunnels, overthe Internet or another unsecured public network.virus In computer terms, a malicious piece of softwareor code that can copy itself and infect a computerwithout the user’s knowledge or permission.Some viruses are benign and do not adversely affecta computer, whereas others can damage or deleteoperating system and data files.virus scan A utility that checks all hard drives andmemory for viruses.Voice over IP (VoIP) A method to transmit telephonecalls over the Internet using packet-switchedtechnology.volatile memory Computer memory that requirespower to maintain the stored information.voltage (V) A force that creates a current by movingelectrons. Electromotive force or potential differenceexpressed in volts.volume controlWA button that adjusts audio output.warm boot Restarting a computer that is alreadyturned on without first turning it off.What You See Is What You Get (WYSIWYG)Printer output that matches what the user seesonscreen.wide-area network (WAN) A data communicationsnetwork that serves users across a broad geographicarea and often uses transmission devices providedby common carriers. Frame Relay, SMDS, andX.25 are examples of WANs.Wi-Fi A brand originally licensed by the Wi-FiAlliance to define the embedded technology of awireless network. Based on the IEEE 802.11 specifications.Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) A security standardfor Wi-Fi wireless technology. Provides betterencryption and authentication than the earlier WEPsystem.Windows Explorer A Windows utility that graphicallyrepresents the file-management structure.wire cuttersA tool used to strip and cut wires.Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) A first-generationsecurity standard for wireless technology.wireless connection A connection to a networkusing radio signals, infrared technology (laser), orsatellite transmissions.wireless indicator LED A light that shows activityof the wireless network connection.wireless network An extension of a wired networkusing radio frequency (RF) signals to connect toaccess points. Wireless signals can be repeated toadditional access points, extending the network’s distance.wireless NIC An expansion card that enables acomputer to connect to a wireless modem using RFsignals.Wireless Transport Layer Security (WTLS) Alayer that provides security for mobile devices thatuse Wireless Application Protocol (WAP).workgroup A collection of workstations andservers on a LAN that are designed to communicateand exchange data with one another.