Term
Glossary
Every term in alphabetical order, each with a plain-language definition.
Terms: 25
B
D
- Download speedDownload speed is how fast data travels from the internet to your device, and it is the figure most plans highlight. Watching a video, op...
- Data capA data cap is a fixed amount of data allowed in a billing period, after which the plan may slow, charge extra or stop. Which of these app...
F
- FTTHFTTH stands for fibre to the home: a network in which optical fibre runs all the way into the home or flat. This differs from FTTB, where...
- Fair usage policyA fair usage policy, or FUP, is a provider rule that places a threshold on heavy use, after which speed is usually reduced for the rest o...
- Fixed wirelessFixed wireless is home internet delivered by radio signal from a nearby tower to an antenna fixed at the home, usually on a roof, balcony...
G
J
L
- LatencyLatency is the time a small message takes to travel to a server and back, usually measured in milliseconds. Low latency makes calls, onli...
- Lock-in periodA lock-in period is a minimum time you agree to stay with a service, with possible charges for leaving earlier. Not every plan has one, s...
M
- MbpsMbps stands for megabits per second, a unit that describes how much data a connection can move each second. It measures capacity, not how...
- ModemA modem is a device that connects your home to the provider's network by translating the signal used on the provider's line into one your...
- Mesh WiFiMesh WiFi is a system of several units that work together under one network name to cover a larger home. Each unit relays the signal, so ...
- Mobile hotspotA mobile hotspot is a feature or device that shares mobile data with other devices over WiFi. It needs no installation or wiring, which m...
O
P
R
S
- Security depositA security deposit is a sum held by a provider, usually against equipment, which should be returned under stated conditions. Ask what the...
- Static IPA static IP is an internet address that stays the same, as opposed to one that changes over time. It is sometimes offered as an extra ser...
- Symmetrical speedSymmetrical speed describes a connection where upload and download capacity are similar. Many home plans offer much lower upload than dow...