HTML – This is the standardized computer language for the web. It is an abbreviation for Hypertext Markup Language. When you look at a web page, you see all the content as assembled by the html code that lies underneath. You can see the Page Source using a command in one of the pull down menus in your browser.

Hypertext – Hypertext is what allows you to click on a link, piece of art or photo on a page and go to another page, file, sound bite or video clip.

IP Address – Nearly every computer these days has an Internet Protocol Address, or IP Address for short. It is a unique number expressed in four parts, separated by dots, i.e., 122.122.234.1. It allows other computers to find another computer on a network, such as the Internet.

ISP or Internet Service Provider – Companies that provide you with access to the Internet. It is the intermediary that provides the dialup or broadband connection that allows you to connect your computer to the network of other computers on the Internet. Many of these companies provide email and web services in addition to your connection for a set price. AOL, Earthlink, Comcast, etc. are all examples of ISPs. Local cable companies and phone companies can also provide this connectivity.

JAVA – This is a programming language developed by Sun Microsystems that allows developers to write programs that can be read by all computers. It is a universal language for computers that serve up functions on websites, such as calculators and animations.

JAVAScript – This is a simple language that allows for greater interactivity on web pages. It is similar to JAVA but independent of it. It works with html coding to create interactive and animated features on web pages that do not require a special plug-in, such as Flash, QuickTime or other proprietary software.

Keywords – Keywords appear in web site content and are invisible listings in the header to help pages get cataloged by search engines.

Link – This is a URL that is embedded in a web page. By clicking on the highlighted text or image, you can go to another location on the same site or on the Web. It is also known as a hyperlink.

Packets – When you request a website page, the document’s components are sent to you in packets – groups of information. When they arrive at your computer, these packets are reassembled, the coding interpreted and the page loaded. If packets get delayed, the page won’t load completely. Even if the page you request is housed on a computer next door, your request travels out onto the Internet and stops at somewhere between 14 and 18 other computers. Each one either sends your request for the page on, or relays packets back to your computer for assembly.