ADSL is an internet service delivered over a copper telephone line. While newer connection types like Fibre and LTE are more common today, some Webafrica customers still use ADSL services.
This glossary explains common ADSL and internet terms in simple language, especially for customers who may need help understanding older router settings, line terminology, or support instructions.
ADSL
ADSL stands for Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line. It is a broadband service delivered over a copper telephone line. “Asymmetric” means the download speed is usually faster than the upload speed.
ADSL2+
ADSL2+ is an improved version of ADSL that supports faster speeds over copper lines, depending on line quality and distance from the exchange.
Backbone
A large network that carries internet traffic between different networks, providers, cities, or countries.
Bandwidth
Bandwidth refers to the amount of data that can be transferred over a connection in a set amount of time. It is usually measured in Mbps or Gbps.
Bit
A bit is the smallest unit of digital information. It can be either a 0 or a 1.
Bits per Second
Bits per second, or bps, is a measurement of data transfer speed. Common examples include Kbps, Mbps, and Gbps.
Broadband
Broadband is a general term for high-speed internet access. ADSL, Fibre and LTE are all examples of broadband services.
Browser
A browser is an app used to open websites. Examples include Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, Safari, and Firefox.
Byte
A byte is a group of 8 bits. File sizes are usually measured in bytes, such as KB, MB, or GB.
Cache
A cache stores temporary website or app data so that pages can load faster the next time you open them.
CMD or Command Prompt
Command Prompt is a Windows tool used to run network commands such as ping, tracert, and ipconfig.
Cookie
A cookie is a small file saved by a website in your browser. It can remember things like login status, preferences, or website activity.
DHCP
DHCP stands for Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol. It automatically assigns network settings, such as an IP address, to devices on a network.
Dial-Up
Dial-up is an older internet connection type that used a telephone line and modem. It is much slower than ADSL, Fibre, or LTE.
DNS
DNS stands for Domain Name System. It translates website names, such as webafrica.co.za, into IP addresses that computers can understand.
Domain
A domain is the name of a website, such as webafrica.co.za.
DSL
DSL stands for Digital Subscriber Line. It is the family of technologies that includes ADSL.
DSLAM
DSLAM stands for Digital Subscriber Line Access Multiplexer. It is equipment in the exchange that connects ADSL customers to the wider network.
Dynamic IP Address
A dynamic IP address can change when your internet session reconnects. Most home internet connections use dynamic IP addresses.
Ethernet
Ethernet is a wired network connection. It is normally used to connect a computer, router, modem, ONT, or other device using a LAN cable.
Gateway
A gateway connects one network to another. In most homes, the router acts as the gateway between your home network and the internet.
HTTP
HTTP stands for HyperText Transfer Protocol. It is used to load websites. Most modern websites use HTTPS, which is the secure version.
ICASA
ICASA stands for the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa. It regulates the telecommunications and broadcasting sectors in South Africa.
Internet
The internet is a global network that connects devices, websites, services, and systems around the world.
IP Address
An IP address is a unique address used to identify a device on a network or on the internet.
IPv4
IPv4 is the older and most widely used type of IP address. It normally looks like this: 192.168.1.1.
IPv6
IPv6 is the newer version of IP addressing. It was created to provide many more available IP addresses than IPv4.
ISP
ISP stands for Internet Service Provider. This is the company that provides your internet service.
Kbps
Kbps stands for kilobits per second. It measures slower connection speeds and is equal to thousands of bits per second.
LAN
LAN stands for Local Area Network. This is the network inside your home or office, usually created by your router.
Latency
Latency is the delay between sending and receiving data. Lower latency is better, especially for gaming, video calls, and real-time services.
Mbps
Mbps stands for megabits per second. It is commonly used to describe internet speeds.
Modem
A modem connects your home to your internet service. With ADSL, the modem connects to the copper telephone line.
Network Interface Card
A Network Interface Card, or NIC, allows a device to connect to a network. This can be through Ethernet or WiFi.
Packet
A packet is a small piece of data sent across a network. Large files and website data are split into packets while being transferred.
Ping
Ping is a command used to test whether a device or website can be reached and how long the response takes.
POTS
POTS stands for Plain Old Telephone Service. It refers to traditional telephone service over copper lines.
PPP
PPP stands for Point-to-Point Protocol. It is a protocol used to create a direct connection between two network points.
PPPOE
PPPOE stands for Point-to-Point Protocol over Ethernet. It is used by many ADSL and Fibre services to authenticate an internet connection using a username and password.
Port
A port can refer to a physical connection on a device, such as a LAN port, or a network communication point used by apps and services.
Protocol
A protocol is a set of rules that devices use to communicate with each other.
QoS
QoS stands for Quality of Service. It is used to manage or prioritise certain types of network traffic.
RJ-11
RJ-11 is the small connector commonly used for telephone lines and ADSL connections.
RJ-45
RJ-45 is the larger connector commonly used for Ethernet network cables.
Router
A router connects your devices to your internet service and manages traffic on your home network.
Splitter or Filter
A splitter or filter is used with ADSL to separate voice telephone service from internet data on the same copper line.
Static IP Address
A static IP address stays the same instead of changing when your connection reconnects. It is usually used for specific services, remote access, or business requirements.
Subnet Mask
A subnet mask helps define which part of an IP address belongs to the network and which part belongs to the device.
TCP/IP
TCP/IP is the set of communication protocols that the internet is built on.
Traceroute
Traceroute is a command used to show the path data takes from your device to another server or website.
USB Modem
A USB modem is a modem that connects directly to a computer using USB.
VPN
VPN stands for Virtual Private Network. It creates a secure connection over the internet and can be used for privacy or remote access.
WAN
WAN stands for Wide Area Network. On a router, the WAN port connects the router to the internet connection.
WEP
WEP is an old WiFi security method. It is no longer recommended because it is not secure enough by modern standards.
WiFi
WiFi allows devices to connect to your router wirelessly.
WPA and WPA2
WPA and WPA2 are WiFi security methods. WPA2 is more secure than older options like WEP.
WPA3
WPA3 is a newer WiFi security standard available on some modern routers and devices.
Summary
ADSL is still used by some Webafrica customers. This glossary explains common ADSL, router, WiFi, and internet terms in simple language.