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Backbone: The backbone of the Internet is the collection of major communications pipelines that transfer the data from one end of the world to the other. Larger ISP’s such as AT&T and Worldcom make up the backbone. They connect through major switching centers called MAE (Metropolitan Area Exchange) and exchange data from each others customers through peering agreements.
Backdoor: A backdoor is a secret or undocumented means of getting into a computer system. Many programs have backdoors placed by the programmer to allow them to gain access to troubleshoot or change the program. Some backdoors are placed by hackers once they gain access to allow themselves an easier way in next time or in case their original entrance is discovered.
BHO:Designed by Microsoft and intended as a legitimate component of the Internet Explorer web browser, browser helper objects (BHO), have been targeted by hackers and malware authors as a means of compromising systems. The “feature” can be used against you by unscrupulous attackers for a variety of functions including monitoring your web activity or substituting different banner ads as your surf the Web. Also Known As: Browser Helper Objects
Biometrics:Biometrics is a form of authentication using unique physical traits of the user. Unlike a password, a hacker cannot “guess” your fingerprint or retinal scan pattern. Biometrics is a relatively new term used to refer to fingerprinting, retinal scans, voice wave patterns and various other unique biological traits used to authenticate users.
Blacklist:A blacklist is a list of addresses, typically IP addresses, but could also pertain to email addresses among other things, which is rejected or denied access by default. A blacklist of IP addresses known to distribute spam is often used to ban any incoming email from those addresses as a means of combating spam.
Broadband:Technically broadband is used to define any transmission which can carry more than one channel on a single medium. For instance, the coaxial cable for your cable TV carries many channels and can simultaneously provide Internet access. Broadband is also often used to describe high-speed Internet connections such as cable modems and DSL.
Browser Helper Object:Designed by Microsoft and intended as a legitimate component of the Internet Explorer web browser, browser helper objects (BHO), have been targeted by hackers and malware authors as a means of compromising systems. The “feature” can be used against you by unscrupulous attackers for a variety of functions including monitoring your web activity or substituting different banner ads as your surf the Web. Also Known As: BHO
Bug: In computer technology, a bug is a coding error in a computer program. After a product is released or during public beta testing, bugs are still apt to be discovered. When this occurs, users have to either find a way to avoid using the “buggy” code or get a patch from the originators of the code.