Compsci Unit 2: The Internet

Computing Device

Computing Device

A machine that can run a program, including computers, tablets, servers, routers, and smart sensors

Computing System

A group of computing devices and programs working together for a common purpose

Computing Network

a group of interconnected computing devices capable of sending or receiving data.

Path

 the series of connections between computing devices on a network starting with a sender and ending with a receiver.

Bandwidth

The maximum amount of data that can be sent in a fixed amount of time, usually measured in bits per second

Protocol

An agreed-upon set of rules that specify the behavior of some system

IP Address

A unique number assigned to each device on the Internet

Internet Protocol

A protocol for sending data across the internet that assigns unique numbers (IP addresses) to each connected device

Router

A type of computer that forwards data across a network

Fault Tolerance

Can continue to function even in the event of individual component failures. This is important because elements of complex systems like a computer network fail at unexpected times, often in groups

Redundancy

The inclusion of extra components so that a system can continue to work even if individual components fail, for example by having more than one path between any two connected devices in a network

Datastream

Information passed through the internet in packets. 

Packet

A chunk of data sent over a network. Larger messages are divided into packets that may arrive at the destination in order, out-of-order, or not at all. 

Packet Metadata

Data added to packets to help route them through the network and reassemble the original message.

Transmission Control Protocol (TCP)

A protocol for sending packets that does error-checking to ensure all packets are received and properly ordered (prioritizing accuracy) 

User Datagram Protocol (UDP)

A protocol for sending packets quickly with minimal error-checking and no resending of dropped packets (prioritizing speed)

Scalability

The capacity for the system to change in size and scale to meet new demands

World Wide Web

A system of linked pages, programs, and files

The Domain Name System (DNS)

The system responsible for translating domain names like example.com into IP addresses

Hypertest Transfer Protocol (HTTP)

A protocol for computers to request and share the pages that make up the world wide web on the Internet

Digital Divide

differing access to computing devices and the Internet, based on socioeconomic, geographic, or demographic characteristics. 

• Can affect both individual and groups. 

• Raises ethical concerns of equity, access, and influence globally and locally. 

• Affected by the actions of individuals, organizations, and governments.