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CCIS.net Internet
Glossary - B
Binary File
With regard to the Internet, non-text
files (such as programs and sound bites) must be downloaded as binary files. If a
binary file is downloaded as an ASCII file, it will most likely be unusable.
Bits
The smallest unit of measurement
that a computer can understand. Bits are organized into Bytes, which equals eight
bits. The word bit is a combination of "binary" and "digit".
Bitnet
An automated mailing list. (Also
see Mailing List.)
Bookmark
As you browse the world wide web,
you can mark your favorite pages with a bookmark. A bookmark is a pointer to a web
pageís URL (Uniform Resource Locator or address). Usually, bookmarks are organized
in menu form. Collectively, a group of bookmarks is sometimes called a "hotlist."
Bots/Robots
A program that "fakes"
real conversation in IRC. Some IRC users are so clever that they use IRC software
to program robots (most commonly called "bots") to chat with unsuspecting
users. This is achieved by writing intelligent scripts.
BPS (Bits Per Second)
A measurement of how fast data
moves between two devices. For example, modem speed is measured in bps or kpbs, as
in 9600 bps or 28.8 kbps. Adding the "k" in front of bps indicates thousands,
so in the case of 28.8 kbps, the speed could also be written as 28,800 bps.
Browser
An application used to access
the world wide web.
Byte
Eight bits, which is equal to
a single character, such as an "a" or a "b". (Also see Bits.)
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