GLOSSARY
ATM (Asynchronous Transfer Mode)
A connection based transfer system which sends information in cells of a fixed size.
Broadband
Defined by the ABS as an 'always on' internet connection with an access speed equal to or greater than 256kbps.
Cable
Broadband internet technology that uses the cable television (CATV) infrastructure. The connection uses a coaxial cable or Hybrid Fibre Coaxial (HFC) and is typically used as the 'last mile' or 'access network' technology. Cable includes Fibre to the Node (FTTN) and Fibre to the Curb (FTTC) where a coaxial cable has been used for the 'last mile'.
Cloud Computing
Cloud computing refers to IT services that are used over the internet to access software, computing power or storage capacity.
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.
EDI (Electronic Data Interchange)
The transfer of strictly formatted data between different computer systems or networks. Commonly used for e-commerce purposes, such as sending orders to warehouses or tracking their orders.
FTP (File Transfer Protocol)
A standard network protocol used to transfer files from one host to another.
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.
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 broadband
An internet connection which provides short range, high data rate connections between mobile data devices and access points connected to a network. Examples include mobile WiMAX and 3G accessed through a datacard, USB modem, tablet SIM card or any other device used to connect a computer to a cellular network (excluding a mobile handset).
Other broadband
Includes ATM and Frame Relay.
Social media presence
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.
Quality Declaration 
Print Page
Print All