We're back with more technical jargon! In this blog post, we'll break down all the complex terms that are related to fibre, making them easy to grasp. We want to ensure that our conversations with you are clear and flow smoothly.

So let's get started!

Bandwidth:

The quantity of data that can be delivered over a network or internet connection in a set amount of time is the maximum data transfer rate of a connection. Consider it to be the size of a pipe; a bigger one can transport more water.

Caching:

It's similar to your browser taking a screenshot of a website so that it loads quickly the next time you visit.

Data Cap:

Your ISP will have placed a restriction on how much data you can use on your internet connection. Imagine it being similar to a water consumption restriction at home.

The DNS (Domain Name System):

Is the online phone book that converts domain names to IP addresses.

Firewall:

A virtual guard that keeps an eye on and manages network traffic in accordance with security guidelines.

Hops:

The "stops" your data makes. It's like the post offices and how basically your parcel goes through every process to reach your mailbox.

Internet Protocol Address (IP Address):

A distinctive string is used to identify a device on a network. Consider it the online address for your device.

Internet Protocol Version 6 (IPv6:

Is the most recent version of the Internet Protocol; it functions as a newer, much larger set of phone numbers for every device connected to the internet.

An ISP (Internet Service Provider):

Is a business like Afrihost that offers internet access services.

Last Mile Provider *FNO*:

A business or service that manages or specializes in providing the last mile of network connectivity for your fibre cables. Examples would be, Openserve, MetroFibre, Vumatel, TT Connect, Frogfoot, and so on.

The backbone network would handle massive amounts of data and cover large geographic areas.

The last mile is the smaller, branching network of fibres that brings that data directly to clients.

Latency (a):

The interval preceding the beginning of a data transfer. Less delay (also known as "lag") is preferable when streaming or playing games.

Latency (b):

The amount of time it takes for data to travel from its starting point to its final destination. comparable to the duration of a postcard's journey.

Load Balancing:

Distributing network traffic among many servers is known as load balancing. It resembles a supermarket that has several check-out lines for customers.

MTR Scan (My Traceroute):

A tool that combines traceroute and ping. Think of it as tracking your parcel's journey and its condition.

Packet Loss (1):

When data fails to reach its destination. Like when pages of a mailed report go missing.

Packet Loss (2):

When data doesn't make it to its final stop. It's like a lost postcard.

Ping:

An examination of a host's reachability. Like echoing, to see if your neighbour is home.

Ping Plotter:

A tool that displays the path that data takes and any delays or losses encountered.

A router:

Is a device that directs data to the appropriate network nodes. Consider it to be a traffic officer.

Wi-Fi:

A wireless technology that uses radio waves to link users to the internet. Similar to invisible cables, it links gadgets to the internet.

🗣️Let us know in the comments which words you have found to be very difficult for you when you had to communicate with our support or even family and friends.

For now, that's all we have with regard to the Fibre Tech Jargon Made Easy: A Guide for Everyone! 🤖