The maximum amount of data that can be sent in a fixed amount of time, usually measured in bits per second.

An agreed-upon set of rules that specify the behavior of some system.

The unique number assigned to each device on the Internet.

A protocol for sending data across the Internet that assigns unique numbers (IP addresses) to each connected device.

A type of computer that forwards data across a network.

The inclusion of extra components so that a system can continue to work even if individual components fail, for example by having more than one path between any two connected devices in a network.

Can continue to function even in the event of individual component failures. This is important because elements of complex systems liken a computer network fail at unexpected times, often in groups.

Information passed through the Internet in packets

Data added to packets to help route them through the network and reassemble the original message.

A protocol for sending packets that does error-checking to ensure all packets are received and properly ordered.

A chunk of data sent over a network. Larger messages are divided into packets that may arrive at the destination in order, out-of-order, or not at all.

A protocol for sending packets quickly with minimal error-checking and no resending of dropped packets.

The capacity for the system to change in size and scale to meet new demands.

A system of linked pages, programs, and files.

The system responsible for translating domain names like example.com into IP addresses.

A protocol for computers to request and share the pages that make up the world wide web on the Internet.

Differing access to computing devices and the Internet, based on socioeconomic, geographic, or demographic characteristics.