GLOSSARY
Automated link
The exchange of messages or instructions via the internet or other computer network in an agreed format that allows its automatic processing without the individual message or instruction being manually typed.
Back-end systems
Computer systems used to manage non-internet aspects of the business (e.g. for accounting, stock control or ordering).
Broadband
Defined by the ABS as an 'always on' internet connection with an access speed equal to or greater than 256kbps.
Cable
Describes those technologies including coaxial cable, fibre optic cable and hybrid coaxial cable which are capable of transmitting data at speeds of up to 10Gbps.
Dial-up (analog)
Connection to the Internet via modem and dial-up software utilising public switched telecommunications network.
DSL (Digital Subscriber Line)
More properly referred to as xDSL as this covers several digital technologies (e.g. Asymmetric DSL or ADSL and Symmetric DSL or SDSL) for fast two-way data connections over the public switched telecommunications network.
Fixed Wireless Internet access
Point to point microwave link, generally building to building or tower to building which allows subscribers within the receiving building to access the Internet. Sender and receiver must be within line of sight and no more than 22 kilometres apart, although newer generations of this technology have overcome some of these obstacles. Examples of technologies included as fixed wireless are fixed WiMax, LMDS and MMDS.
Frame Relay
Communications protocol used to ensure that data is delivered correctly over a packet-switching system transmitting at up to 2Mbps.
Internet
A world-wide public computer network. Organisations and individuals can connect their computers to this network and exchange information across a country and/or across the world. The internet provides access to a number of communication services including the World Wide Web and carries email, news, entertainment and data files.
Internet Income
Income resulting from orders received via the internet for goods or services.
ISDN (Integrated Services Digital Network)
A digital access technique for both voice and data. It is a digital alternative to an analog public switched telephone service and carries data or voltages consisting of discrete steps or levels, as opposed to continuously variable analog data. ISDN enables digital transmission over the public switched telecommunications network.
Mobile Wireless Internet access
Mobile Internet access via 'hotspots' using a microwave connection often referred to as WiFi. Most commonly utilised by laptop users although it is also becoming increasingly popular within homes and businesses with multiple PCs.
Order
A commitment to purchase goods or services.
Other broadband
Includes ATM and Frame Relay.
Social media
Social media presence includes web and mobile-based technologies which are used to turn communication into interactive dialogue among organisations, communities and individuals.
Web presence
Web presence includes a website, home page or, in the case of a presence on another entity's website, it is included providing the business has substantial control over the content. A website or home page is an electronic document that is accessed via a unique address on the World Wide Web. The document provides information in a textual, graphical or multimedia format. Web presence excludes on-line listings or directories.