While you're browsing support articles, you might come across terms you don't recognize — or ones you'd like to know more about. This handy glossary of Internet terms can be a great resource, when you need it. Scroll down to begin, or click a letter to jump down the page.
Definitions for Internet terms beginning with the letters "A" through "E".
Synonyms: profile picture
An avatar is a picture associated with a user account. When you post on social networks or in forums, your avatar appears next to your posts.
Bandwidth is a measurement of the amount of data that can be passed through an Internet connection in a given time. It can be considered a measurement of either speed or usage.
Bookmarks
Bookmarks are a feature of your web browser that allows you to save links to pages for easy access later on.
Browser
Synonyms: web browser, Internet Explorer, Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Opera
A browser is an app that gives you the ability to browse web pages on the Internet.
A CSV (comma-separated values) file is a spread sheet file used to store information about your email contacts. CSV files can be imported or exported, allowing you to move your contacts between email apps and devices.
DOCSIS (data over cable service interface specification) is a telecommunication standard used to provide Internet access via a cable modem. DOCSIS 3.0 modems provide the highest possible service speeds.
Domain Name System
Synonym: DNS
Domain name systems are used to organize resources connected to the Internet. When you type "google.ca" into your web browser's address bar, you are typing an easy-to-remember domain name. The domain name is translated into a numerical address — an IP address, like 173.194.79.94 — that represents Google's website on the Internet.
Download
To download a file is to transfer it from a remote computer or server, to the computer or device you're using.
Synonyms: E-Bill, electronic bill, paperless billing
An eBill is a replacement for the paper bills you receive in the mail. If you opt in to receiving eBills from Shaw, your monthly bill will be sent to you by email.
Email
Synonyms: electronic messages, electronic mail
An email is a message that is sent from one person to another, over the Internet, using email apps. Gmail, Outlook, and Shaw Webmail are examples of email apps.
Email app
Synonyms: Outlook, Windows Live, Mac Mail, Thunderbird, Incredimail
An email app is a piece of software that enables people to exchange messages (emails) over the Internet.
Export
Exporting is the act of transferring a file or group of files from an app, to your computer.
Definitions for Internet terms beginning with the letters "F through "J".
A firewall is a virtual wall that limits other users and programs from accessing your computer, and protects against malicious viruses and spyware. A firewall is included as part of McAfee Internet Security — free with your Shaw Internet account.
Forums
A forum is a social online space where users can post messages publicly and have discussions. Shaw Community is a forum where can talk about their Shaw products, ask questions, and get answers from other community members and Shaw employees.
Synonyms: Gig, GB
A unit of measurement used for data and data storage. Your Shaw plan has a limit for "included data" — the amount of data you can upload and per month. The speed that you can upload and download that data is measured in Mbps (megabits per second).
Synonyms: WiFi Hotspot, Shaw Hotspot, Rogers WiFi Hotspots
Hotspots are wireless access points — areas, often in public, where you can access WiFi with your laptop or mobile devices. Shaw has a vast network of hotspots called Rogers WiFi Hotspots that enables you to access your Shaw Internet plan's included data while you're away from home.
Hyperlink
Synonyms: link
A hyperlink is a clickable area — usually a word, phrase, or image — on a web page that will take you to another web page, download a file, or open an app. Hyperlinks often appear as bolded or coloured text. For example, this is a hyperlink: http://shaw.ca.
A small image that represents an app or file on your computer or device. Clicking or tapping an app icon
usually launches the app associated with it. Double-clicking a file icon usually launches the associated file.
IMAP
IMAP (Internet Message Access Protocol) is a protocol used by email clients that enables you to view email messages that are stored on a mail server. IMAP is the recommended protocol to choose if you need to check your email on multiple devices.
Import
Importing is the act of transferring a file or group of files into an app, from your computer.
IPv6
IPv6 (Internet Protocol version 6) is the most recent version of the Internet Protocol —the rules that govern the format of data sent over the Internet, and the system of addresses for each computer and device connected to it.
IP address
Synonyms: IP, IP Number, Internet Protocol Address
An IP address is a unique numeric address assigned to each computer and device connected to the Internet.
Java is a language used by some computer applications. Java is the foundation of various Shaw websites and services, such as Webmail. If you don't already have Java on your computer, you can download it from java.com.
Definitions for Internet terms beginning with the letters "K" through "O".
A key code is a sequence of numbers that gives you security access to something. If you use Shaw's Phone service, you might have a voicemail key code.
Lag is the temporary slowdown of a process that isn't operating smoothly. Lag can be a result of high latency (delay of transferred data) or poor hardware performances and is often associated with video streaming and online gaming.
LAN
A LAN (local area network) is a network that connects computers within a limited area like your home, school, or office building.
Latency
Synonyms: Internet latency, network latency
Latency is a delay in the transfer of network data. An Internet connection with high latency suffers from long delays.
Synonyms: Internet modem, cable modem, wireless modem
A modem is a device that enables you to have Internet access in your home or office, by connecting to Shaw’s network. Shaw provides customers with wired modems (devices must be connected with cables) or wireless modems (devices can connect over WiFi).
A collection of computers and other electronic devices that are interconnected and able to share information and access.
Network interface card
Synonyms: NIC, network card
A network interface card is a piece of hardware that is either inside a computer, or connected externally. It allows a computer to be assigned an IP address and connect to the Internet.
Synonyms: Shaw On Demand, Video On Demand, SOD, VOD
Content that is available "on demand" is available to you anytime, in contrast to scheduled content being broadcasted "on air". On Demand content includes movies, TV shows, and kids programming.
OS
An OS (operating system) is the software that manages your computer or device, making it possible to operate and run apps. Examples of popular operating systems include Android, Microsoft Windows, and Apple's Mac OS and iOS.
Definitions for Internet terms beginning with the letters "P" through "T".
Synonyms: scam email, phishing scam
Phishing emails are fraudulent emails sent by an individual or organization that is attempting to obtain personal information like your usernames, passwords, or credit card details. These emails are often made to appear as if they have been sent by a legitimate company or a friend. They sometimes include links to fake websites and viruses.
Pin hole reset
Synonyms: restore, pin hole restore
A pin hole reset is a method of restoring a device to its original factory default settings by pressing a very small button using a pin, paperclip, or pen tip. Most modems and digital phone terminals have a pin hole resent button. Resetting a device this way will also reset network names and passwords.
Ping test
A ping test is used to test the status of your Internet connection, by sending a signal to a server and waiting to receive a signal back.
Power cycle
Synonyms: cycle, quick reset, reset, restart
Power cycling is the act of unplugging a device (like a modem, router, digital box, or digital phone terminal) from its power supply for a short amount of time, and then reconnecting it. Power cycling can often resolve common connection issues.
Queue
A queue online is the same as a lineup at store or movie theatre. If you use Shaw customer support chat, you may find yourself waiting in a queue to have your questions answered or issues resolved.
Synonyms: D-link, Linksys, Netgear, Belkin, TRENDnet
A router is a device that enables you to share your Internet connection with multiple devices. Routers can be standalone devices, or included inside a modem. The Shaw Wireless modem has an internal router.
Synonyms: Safe mode with Networking
Safe mode is a mode you can start your computer in with only essential services to run. Starting in safe mode limits the impact that malware and viruses can have on your computer, allowing you to troubleshoot performance issues.
Server
A server is a computer that stores information and provides access to that information across a network. Server types include mail servers, database servers, and file servers.
Shaw Secure
Synonyms: antivirus, malware protection, McAfee
Advanced Security is program provided by Shaw that protects your computer from malware, viruses and spyware infections. Shaw Secure is a full antivirus system powered by McAfee that also includes tools like Shredder and QuickClean.
Spam
Spam is the name for unsolicited email that has been sent to your email address. Spam emails often include messages about products and services for sale and are often related to scams.
SSID
Synonyms: network name, service set identifier, wireless network name, WiFi name
An SSID is the name used to identify your wireless network amongst other wireless networks in the range of your device. Your Shaw wireless modem will have a default SSID that you can customize to something more personal or memorable.
SSL
SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) is a technology that encrypts the data being transmitted from one source to another. SSL can be used to secure web pages and email clients.
Synonyms: categories, mark, label
Tags are labels you can apply to files or documents, categorizing them so they can be found more easily.
Tech Support
Synonyms: technical support, Shaw support
Tech support is the assistance you receive when you are having technical issues with Shaw services or hardware. Shaw offers a variety of tech support including online chat, forums, social media, and support articles.
Thread
Synonyms: comment thread
A thread is a series of timestamped posts or comments that results from a discussion in an online forum.
Definitions for Internet terms beginning with the letters "U" through "Z".
Synonyms: upgrade devices, upgrade hardware, software update, hardware update
Upgrading is the act of installing the latest version of an app, or replacing hardware with a newer version. For example, upgrading your TV hardware from Gateway to Ignite TV.
Upload
Synonyms: transfer, transmit, sync, send
To upload a file is to transfer it from the device or computer you're using, to a remote computer or server.
Synonyms: password verification, account verification, captcha, authentication, password confirmation
Verification is the process of confirming the accuracy or validity of information like as a password. When you use Shaw products and services, you may be prompted to verify your login information.
Virus
Synonyms: malware, spyware, computer virus
A computer virus is a malicious program that can create, move, or erase files on your computer, with the goal of violating your privacy or stopping your computer from functioning. The most common way to get a virus is to open an email with an attachment that contains the virus.
Synonyms: citywide WiFi, metro WiFi, wireless connectivity
WiFi is a technology that makes it possible for devices to connect to the Internet wirelessly. Your Shaw modem acts as a wireless hub, making WiFi available in your home. The Rogers WiFi Hotspots network is a citywide network of locations that gives Shaw customers wireless Internet access away from home, without using a cellular data plan.
Wireless
Synonyms: WiFi, home wireless
A wireless connection is used by two devices or computers to exchange data without being connected by a cable. A Shaw wireless modem creates a WiFi network in your home, making it possible for you to connect devices and computers to the Internet wirelessly.
World Wide Web
Synonyms: WWW, the Web
The World Wide Web is a system of interconnected documents (web pages) on the Internet that can be navigated with a web browser and searched with a search engine.
Synonyms: Xbox 360, Xbox One, Microsoft Xbox
Xbox is a series of game consoles from Microsoft that connects to your TV and modem, enabling you to play games, socialize, and view content online.
Youtube is a video-sharing website owned by Google. You can find self-install videos and guides on Shaw's Youtube channel.
Synonyms: Kids Zone
Kids Zone is a feature in Shaw TV that is just for kids. It offers a safe environment for children 12 and under to browse and watch live TV, On Demand content, and PVR recordings.
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