Introduction to IT

Node
In a network, a node is a connection point, either a redistribution point or an end point for data transmissions. In general, a node has programmed or engineered capability to recognize and process or forward transmissions to other nodes.

Client
A client is the requesting program or user in a client/server relationship. For example, the user of a Web browser is effectively making client requests for pages from servers all over the Web. The browser itself is a client in its relationship with the computer that is getting and returning the requested HTML file. The computer handling the request and sending back the HTML file is a server.

Server
In information technology, a server is a computer program that provides services to other computer programs and their users in the same or other computers. The computer that a server program runs in is also frequently referred to as a server. In the server programming model, a server is a program that awaits and fulfills requests from client programs in the same or other computers. A given application in a computer may function as a client with requests for services from other programs and also as a server of requests from other programs.

Hub
A hub is the central part of a wheel where the spokes come together.In describing network topologies, a hub topology consists of a main circuit to which a number of outgoing lines can be attached, each providing one or more connection port for device to attach to. For Internet users not connected to a local area network, this is the general topology used by your access provider. Other common network topologies are the bus network and the ring network. As a network product, a hub may include a group of modem cards for dial-in users, a gateway card for connections to a local area network. For example, Ethernet, and a connection to a line.

Network Interface Card (NIC)
A network interface card (NIC) is a computer circuit board or card that is installed in a computer so that it can be connected to a network. Personal computers and workstations on a local area network (LAN) typically contain a network interface card specifically designed for the LAN transmission technology, such as Ethernet or Token Ring. Network interface cards provide a dedicated, full-time connection to a network. Most home and portable computers connect to the Internet through as-needed dial-up connection. The modem provides the connection interface to the Internet service provider.

Network Operating System (NOS)
A network operating system (NOS) is a computer operating system system that is designed primarily to support workstation, personal computer, and, in some instances, older terminal that are connected on a local area network (LAN). Artisoft's LANtastic, Banyan VINES, Novell's NetWare, and Microsoft's LAN Manager are examples of network operating systems. In addition, some multi-purpose operating systems, such as Windows NT and Digital's OpenVMS come with capabilities that enable them to be described as a network operating system.

Distributed Processing
Refers to any of a variety of computer systems that use more than one computer, or processor, to run an application. This includes parallel processing, in which a single computer uses more than one CPU to execute programs. More often, however, distributed processing refers to local-area networks (LANs) designed so that a single program can run simultaneously at various sites. Most distributed processing systems contain sophisticated software that detects idle CPUs on the network and parcels out programs to utilize them.

Host Computer
Main or controlling computer connected to other computers or terminals to which it provides data or computing services via a network. It is similar to a server in a client-server architecture. In the modern peer to peer networking every computer is a peer and also a host to every other computer connected to the network. The name reflects the biological relationship between a host and parasites.

Network Manager
NetworkManager is a software utility aimed at simplifying the use of computer networks on Linux and other Unix-like operating systems. NetworkManager is designed in two components: a service which manages connections and reports network changes, and a graphical desktop applet which allows the user to manipulate network connections.