Glossary

ADSL
Asynchronous Digital Subscriber Line – Business grade and home use telecommunications method utilising standard copper wiring. ADSL upload speeds are higher than download speeds (eg. 256Kbps/64Kbps).

Application Service Provider (ASP)
An organisation that hosts, manages and delivers applications and computer services to customers from a remote, centralised location. Depending on the provider, customers can access these applications either by private lines or over the Internet or both. ASPs are generally able to offer most applications on a subscription model.

Hosting Service Provider (HSP)
Similar to an ASP but the provider hosts licences rather than offering them on subscription.

Server Based Technology
Similar to the old mainframe, “dumb terminal” set up whereby applications are run on powerful servers and accessed by thin client devices or converted workstations. This environment offers single point administration of applications and improved performance for the end user.

SDSL
Synchronous Digital Subscriber Line – a business grade telecommunications method utilising standard copper wiring. SDSL upload speeds are equal to download speeds (eg. 384Kbps both ways).

Thin Client
A device such as the Compaq Evo T10 or Wyse unit which connects to sever based applications and data storage facilities. Thin clients do not have hard drives and are much cheaper than standard workstations. The term “thin client” can also refer to the software that converts a standard workstation into a thin client, allowing it to connect seamlessly to server based applications and storage. Converting existing workstations to thin clients and utilising server based technology generally extends the life of workstations to up to 5 years.

Virtual Private Network (VPN)
An encrypted connection between distributed sites over a public network. VPNs are usually used to create secure connections for remote sites or users to server based applications, data and data storage facilities.

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