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3G

Third generation (3G) is the technology that enables high-speed data transfer. Data can be transmitted up to 50 times faster per minute compared with non-3G data speeds.

4G

Fourth generation (4G) technology allows ultra-high-speed data transfer. In optimal conditions, 4G can enable data to be transmitted 10 times faster than via 3G.

5G

Fifth generation (5G) is the latest technology in mobile data and is set to bring even faster data transmission up to 100 times faster than 4G meaning streaming and downloads will take a fraction of the time. 5G has already arrived in some parts of the world and is set to begin rolling out in the UK from late 2019.

A

AA

see Auto Attendant

Access Control

The action of permitting or denying admittance, e.g. a facial recognition camera or ID card reader terminal placed at the entrance of a building for security reasons. See also Flow Management and Density Control.

ACD

see Automatic Call Distribution

ADSL

see Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line

AI

see Artificial Intelligence

Analogue Device

An analogue device is anything that can be plugged into an ordinary analogue line, for example a telephone, fax machine, modem or franking machine.

Analogue Line

An analogue line is a single copper cable run into a building by the line provider. Analogue lines were used for both voice and data before ADSL was available but they are now typically used for analogue devices as well as broadband connections, alarms and lifts.

Android

Android is the mobile operating system for smartphones and tablets developed by Google. The latest release is called “Pie”.

Annex M

Annex M is a feature available on ADSL connections which provides an increase in upload speed in exchange for some of the download bandwidth.

Anti-virus

This is software that attempts to protect your computer from malicious internet-transferred malware (malicious software normally designed to be intrusive or damaging to your computer such as viruses, Trojan horses and worms).

Application (App)

Applications are software programmes designed to run on mobile devices such as mobiles and tablets, however some apps are developed for desktop use.

Artificial Intelligence

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is computer algorithms capable of performing human actions such as recognition, perception and decision-making.

Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line

Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line (ADSL), more commonly known as broadband, is a high-speed digital line enabling internet access. ADSL has good download speeds (typically up to 24MB/s) but can be slower for uploading (up to 1.5Mb/s).

Auto Attendant

An Auto Attendant, or Automated Attendant (AA), is a voice menu system that greets callers and offers a number of choices as to where their call can be directed. Callers can select an option using their phone keys in order to route their own call.

Auto Dialler

An auto dialler, or automatic dialler, is a device or software that automatically dials from a list or customer database, frequently used in call centres. When the call is answered, the auto dialler can play a pre-recorded message or connect the call to an available agent.

Automated Backup

Delivers the most basic form of storage availability — recoverable data.

Automatic Call Distribution

Automatic Call Distribution (ACD) answers and routes incoming calls to groups or individuals within an organisation. Commonly used in call centres, the ACD system disperses calls to available agents based on a set of instructions (e.g. longest idle, next available agent, specific skills etc.) enabling the call to be answered and dealt with as quickly as possible.

B

Back-end

The server side of a client/server system. A ‘front-end’ application is one that application users interact with directly. A ‘back-end’ application or program serves indirectly in support of the front-end services.

Back-up Server

A software or hardware system that copies or “shadows” the contents of a server, providing redundancy.

Bandwidth

Bandwidth is what dictates the speed at which data can be transmitted within a circuit; the bigger the bandwidth, the faster the data transmission.

Basic Rate Interface

Basic Rate Interface (BRI) is an Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) primarily used for homes or small businesses. A BRI comprises two data channels (also known as bearer channels/B-channels) and one control channel (also known as a delta channel/D-channel) and can facilitate two independent calls.

Bearer Channels (B-channels)

A bearer channel (B-channel) carries main data on the Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN).

BLF

see Busy Lamp Field

Bluetooth

Bluetooth is a wireless technology enabling data transmission from one device to another in close proximity.

Bolt-on

A bolt-on is a mobile service that can be added to an existing tariff to increase the inclusive allowance, e.g. additional text messages, minutes or data.

Bonded Solution

A bonded solution combines multiple broadband connections (ADSL/fibre/ethernet) to provide a greater bandwidth than would otherwise be available.

BRI

see Basic Rate Interface

Bring Your Own Device

Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) refers to employees who bring their own computing devices to use in the workplace and to connect to the corporate network. BYOD security is often addressed by having IT provide detailed security requirements for each type of personal device used in the workplace. For example, configuring passwords, prohibited access, or data encryption. 

BT (British Telecom)

The UK’s largest provider of fixed-line, broadband and mobile services. They also provide subscription television and IT Services.

Bundle

A bundle is a combination of inclusive services within a fixed cost. This could be text messages, minutes and data for a mobile device or a selection of cloud features for IP telephony (e.g. Voicemail, Busy Lamp Field and Call Queueing).

Busy Lamp Field

A Busy Lamp Field (BLF) is when lights on a handset indicate if an extension connected to the same telephone system is engaged.

BYOD

See Bring Your Own Device.

Byte

This is a measurement of how much information is in a message.  

Megabyte = 1,000,000 bytes
Gigabyte = 1,000,000,000 bytes
Terabyte = 1,000,000,000,000 bytes
Petabyte = 1,000,000,000,000,000 bytes
Exabyte = 1,000,000,000,000,000,000 bytes
Zettabyte = 1,000,000,000,000,000,000,000 bytes
Yottabyte = 1,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000 bytes

C

Call Barring

Call barring prevents users from dialling selected destinations such as international or premium rate numbers. This can be applied at a system or network level and can be reversed on request.

Call Blocking

Call blocking is the function of automatically rejecting incoming calls from certain numbers.

Call Deflection

Call deflection is a feature that automatically redirects and incoming call to an alternative destination (e.g. a mailbox or another extension) when the called endpoint is engaged.

Call Detail Record

A Call Detail Record (CDR) is a data file containing information about recent usage on the phonelines (e.g. origin, endpoint, duration or cost) made via and endpoint.

Call Forwarding

Call forwarding is a feature that diverts incoming calls to another endpoint (e.g. another extension, a mailbox or a mobile number). The divert can be applied to forward all calls or programmed to only forward calls when busy or if the call goes unanswered.

Call Logging

Call logging is the function of capturing statistics about both incoming and outgoing call traffic which can then be used for analysis and reporting with call management software. Call data can be viewed in its entirety or filtered by number or extension.

Call Management

Call management software facilitates analysis and reporting on the call statistics captured by a call logger.

Call Park

A call park is a feature whereby a user can place a call on hold which can be retrieved from any extension.

Call Queueing

Call queueing is where the calls are placed in a virtual queue in the order in which they are received before they can be answered by an available call handler. Some call queueing software enables position announcements, music on hold, marketing messages and the functionality to request a ring-back.

Call Recording

Call recording is the process of capturing both inbound and outbound conversations as digital audio files. Recorded calls are stored and may be searched with multiple criteria.

Calling Line Identity

A Calling Line Identity (CLI) is the telephone number associated with a line. This can be presented or withheld when a call is made and a user can choose to present an alternative CLI.

Calling Line Identity Presentation

Calling Line Identity Presentation (CLIP) is when the telephone number is provided to the call recipient.

Calling Line Identity Restriction

Calling Line Identity Restriction (CLIR) is when the telephone number is withheld from the call recipient.

Carrier

A carrier is a telecommunications service provider that owns their own network, e.g. BT or Gamma.

Carrier Pre-Selection

Carrier Pre-Selection (CPS) is the process of routing calls via a service provider’s chosen network.

CAT5

Category 5 or CAT5 (or CAT5e) is the specification for the transmission performance of an ethernet data cable but is frequently used to describe structured cabling routing voice and data circuits to wall sockets within a building. CAT5/5e transmission can be up to 100MHz.

CAT6

Category 6 or CAT6 is an upgrade to CAT5/5e cable enabling performance of up to 250MHz compared to 100MHz with CAT5/5e. CAT6 is backwards compatible with CAT5/5e ethernet cables.

CAT7

Category 7 or CAT7 is used for Gigabit Ethernet cabling infrastructure offering transmission performance up to 600MHz.

CCTV

see Closed Circuit Television

CCU

see Central Control Unit

CDR

see Call Detail Record

Central Control Unit

The Central Control Unit (CCU) is the box or cabinet that houses the hardware controlling the telephone system.

Centrex

Centrex (short for Central Exchange) is a hosted telephony solution providing the functionality of a PBX without the costs and logistics associated with a physical on-premise system.

Class of Service

The ability to give a data packet a series of set properties/restrictions/access levels during a telephone call. E.g. A user can be given a COS value of 1 that permits international dialling while the value of 2 disables this ability.

CLI

see Calling Line Identity

CLIP

see Calling Line Identity Presentation

CLIR

see Calling Line Identity Restriction

Closed Circuit Television

Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) is the security and surveillance devices that can aide with access control and the broader protection of premises.

Cloud

Cloud can relate to any kind of infrastructure, platform or applications that are hosted on a server not located at the premises using it, accessed via the internet. E.g. cloud communications enable the functionality of a telephone system with no requirement for an on-site PBX.

Codec

A codec is a device or piece of computer software for coding or decoding digital data streams or signals.

COLP

see Connected Line Presentation

Communications Provider

An organisation that provides telephony services, e.g. Premier Choice.

Communications Service Provider

A Communications Service Provider (CSP) handles the electronic transmission of information.

Computer Telephony Integration

Computer Telephony Integration (CTI) is a software that brings together your customer database and your telephones, enabling features like click-to-dial, screen popping and text messaging services.

Conferencing

Conferencing occurs when more than two telephone users join into a single call. Users can dial in to a conferencing destination or one participant can dial another and connect them into the call.

Connected Line Presentation

Connected Line Presentation (COLP) is a feature whereby the caller is presented with the CLI of the user they have connected to, where this is not the number originally dialled. This is a chargeable service from the network provider and requires compatible equipment.

Contact Centre

A contact centre is a fully integrated customer-centric communication hub. Agents handle calls with merged with other media sources such as CRM applications.

Contention

Contention is where two or more nodes compete to transmit data at the same time. The contention protocol defines the rate of service in this situation. A network with zero-contention means there is no competition for transmission and the entire bandwidth is solely available for use by the network user.

Contention Ratio

This is the number of devices that may be sharing the same connection to the internet from the Broadband provider. Most standard ADSL Broadband packages have a contention ratio of 50:1. Meaning that up to 49 other users may be sharing the connection. Broadband providers can offer varied contention ratios from 20:1 to 1:1. 

Convergence

Convergence is the interlinking of multiple voice and data technologies and solutions into a single network.

COS

see Class of Service

CP

see Communications Provider

CPE

see Customer Premise Equipment

CPS

see Carrier Pre-Selection

CRM

see Customer Relationship Management

CSE

see Communications Service Provider

CTI

see Computer Telephony Integration

Customer Premise Equipment

Customer Premise Equipment (CPE) is the hardware owned and housed by the customer.

Customer Relationship Management

A Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system is a piece of software that houses all information relating to customers, enabling an employee to have a single yet comprehensive view of a customer.

D

D-Side

D-Side (short for Distribution Side) is the segment of cabling between the Primary Connection Point (PCP) and the distribution point (DP). The D-Side is then patched to the E-Side (Exchange Side).

DASS

see Digital Access Signalling System

Data

Data in the context of telecoms is a term broadly used to mean internet access.

Data Allowance

A data allowance is what is included within a mobile tariff. A user may be able to exceed their inclusive data but this is usually chargeable. A data cap can be applied to prevent a user surpassing their allowance.

Data Cap

Many broadband service providers have a usage limit on the maximum amount of data you can download for a cheaper price. This is called a ‘cap’ Often there can be a cap on how much you are allowed to download on a certain contract – if you exceed this cap, you may have to pay an excess charge. 

Data Centre

A facility used to store and manage data and associated components. Generally includes backup power supplies, redundant data communication connections, environmental controls, maintenance and security. 

DDI

see Direct Dial Inward

DECT

see Digital Enhanced Cordless Telephony

DEL

see Direct Exchange Line

Delta Channels (D-channels)

A delta channel (D-channel) carries control and signalling information on the Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN).

Denial of Service

Commonly referred to a “DOS Attack” where a malicious third party intends to temporarily or permanently disrupt the services on an endpoint.

Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing

Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing (DWDM) is the technology used to combine multiple fibre networks to create a broader bandwidth for the existing network.

Density Control

Density Control is when the number of individuals in a designated area must be measured or managed. See also Flow Management and Access Control.

DIA

see Direct Internet Access

Digital Access Signalling System

Digital Access Signalling System (DASS) was BT’s original protocol for providing signalling to ISDN30. DASS is still supported but no longer available for new provides as ISDN30 was superseded by ISDN30e with ETSI or Q931 signalling which is now standard throughout Europe.

Digital Enhanced Cordless Telephony

Digital Enhanced Cordless Telephony (DECT) is the technology for providing better clarity and smaller phones for cordless handsets (frequently called DECT phones). Mobile Devices are not included in this term.

Digital Private Network Signalling System

A Digital Private Network Signalling System (DPNSS) supports connections between telecoms equipment from multiple vendors. See also Q Signalling (QSIG).

Digital Signal Processing

A piece of technology which can differentiate between the voice of an individual and background noise to improve the quality of sound. Premier Choice use this term to talk about a “DSP Card” which is a component used in most Panasonic PBX Solutions.

Digital Subscriber Line

A Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) is used to add broadband with equal bandwidth in both directions to a phone line. The most common DSL line is an ADSL line.

Digital Subscriber Line Access Multiplexer

A Digital Subscriber Line Access Multiplexer (DSLAM) is a network distribution device that receives signals from multiple Digital Subscriber Lines (DSL) and connects them into a single high-speed digital communication channel.

Digital Transformation

Digital Transformation is a buzz-word for the growth companies undergo as a result of introducing and combining innovative technologies.

Direct Dial Inward

A Direct Dial Inward (DDI) is an inbound or outbound number assigned to a specific handset and associated to the main CLI. This feature is not available on analogue lines.

Direct Exchange Line

A Direct Exchange Line (DEL) is term used for a single analogue line.

Direct Internet Access

Any standalone internet circuit not part of a wider joint network.

Direct Station Selector

A Direct Station Selector (DSS) is a unit that sits alongside a telephone enabling the handset to be used a reception/switchboard console. The unit provides programmable buttons enabling the operator to quickly dial and see the status of user extensions.

Disaster Recovery

Disaster Recovery (DR) is the continuity plan put in place for when there is a power failure or fault with the telecoms solution.

Distribution Point

The final point within a network where the cable or fibre terminates, typically the street (telegraph pole), cabinet or premises.

DNS

see Domain Name System

Domain

This is the address of a particular website, for example www.premierchoicegroup.com is a domain name. 

Domain Name System

A centralised system which categorises multiple network locations with a label (e.g. a domain). To save entering the full network address (possibly in numeric form) a simple domain label can attributed (e.g. google.com).

DOS

see Denial of Service

Downstream

Receiving information on to your computer from another source – e.g. the internet. 

Downtime

The total time a system is out of service. 

DP

see Distribution Point

DPNSS

see Digital Private Network Signalling System

DR

see Disaster Recovery

DSL

see Digital Subscriber Line

DSLAM

see Digital Subscriber Line Access Multiplexer

DSP

see Digital Signal Processing

DSS

see Direct Station Selector

DTMF

see Dual-Tone Multi-Frequency

Dual-Tone Multi-Frequency

A signalling protocol using the voice frequency band over a telephone line which allows numbers to be selected on a handset/mobile dial pad to initiate a further call route. Most telephone systems use this protocol to control their “Options” menu.

Ducts

Ducts are the pipes underground holding copper and fibre lines.

DWDM

see Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing

Dynamic Routing

A method of Wide Area Network transmission that uses a router to select the most appropriate path for each section of data packet transmission along a network. 

E

E-Side

E-Side (short for Exchange Side) is the segment of cabling between the Primary Connection Point (PCP – usually a street cabinet) and the origin (exchange).

Early Life Fault

An Early Life Fault (ELF) is when a new product is found to be faulty shortly after purchase, without misuse or damage caused by the user.

ECCs

see Excess Construction Charges

EFM

see Ethernet First Mile

ELF

see Early Life Fault

Encryption

This is the process of translating data into a secret code for security and protection purposes.  

Ethernet

Ethernet is a traditional networking technology commonly used in connecting wired networks such as Local or Wide Area Networks (LAN or WAN).

Ethernet First Mile

Ethernet First Mile (EFM) is a lower cost leased line solution alternative providing symmetrical upload and download bandwidth with zero-contention. EFM uses the copper network to deliver an Ethernet service to sites where Fibre to the Cabinet (FTTC) is not available. Speeds can be up to 20Mb/s.

Excess Construction Charges

Excess Construction Charges (ECCs) are incurred when the cost of providing services or dealing with situations is more than the standard charge, e.g. implementing copper or fibre where there previously wasn’t any.

F

Facial Recognition

Artificial intelligence (AI) within a camera device that can detect and identify a human face when an individual or individuals are in range of the terminal.

Fever Detection

A fever is a symptom, not an illness, that may be identified when an adult human presents a body temperature of 38°C or higher. When an elevated body temperature is identified in an individual, this may indicate the presence of a fever. Thermal or Thermographic Cameras are capable of reading the body temperature of individuals within range without contact and provide a preliminary reading which can be confirmed via the use of a more invasive thermometer. See also Temperature Screening or Thermography.

Fibre

Fibre (short for Fibre-Optic) is a method of transmitting telephone signals and internet connectivity through an optical fibre. Fibre is frequently more cost effective than copper and does not suffer electromagnetic interference.

Fibre-optic

Fiber optics is a high-bandwidth transmission technology that uses light to carry digital information. One fiber telephone cable carries hundreds of thousands of voice circuits. These cables, or light guides, replace conventional coaxial cables and wire pairs. Fiber transmission facilities occupy far less physical volume for an equivalent transmission capacity, which is a major advantage in crowded ducts. Optical fiber is also immune to electrical interference. Fibre-optic cable will one day replace the older copper cable that has been used on telephone lines for years.  

Fibre To The Cabinet

Fibre To The Cabinet (FTTC) is the term for broadband network architecture that brings fibre connectivity from the telephone exchange to the street cabinets. From here, it is connected to the premises with a further copper sub-loop. Bandwidth is determined by the distance from the cabinet the closer the destination point is to the cabinet, the faster the download and upload speeds will be.

Fibre To The Home

Fibre To The Home (FTTH) is the residential equivalent of Fibre To The Premises (FTTP).

Fibre To The Premises

Fibre To The Premises (FTTP), provides end-to-end fibre from the exchange directly to the destination site (without any copper lengths) resulting in faster speeds than Fibre To The Cabinet (FTTC).

Filter (Microfilters/Splitters)

This is a device that you plug into your phone socket in order to split voice (telephone) and data (internet) signals when using an ADSL internet connection. It is important to add a filter to all the telephone sockets that share the same line as the broadband that also have a telephone attached to them. If using the telephone for an incoming call or if a user is making a call through a socket that doesn’t have a filter then the connection can be interrupted. 

Firewall

A Firewall is a component within a network or computer system designed to identify and prevent any unauthorised access into a network from an external source.

Fixed Line

A fixed line is an analogue or digital connection provided by a cable enabling voice and/or data services.

Flow Management

Flow Management is the counting in or out of individuals through a designated gateway. See also Density Control and Access Control.

FTTC

see Fibre To The Cabinet

FTTH

see Fibre To The Home

FTTP

see Fibre To The Premises

G

Gateway

A gateway is a node on your network that acts like an interface to other networks. Typically this is the machine that the desktops and workstations connect through to access the internet. Usually a gateway is associated with a router.

GB

See Gigabyte.

GEA

see Generic Ethernet Access

General Packet Radio System

General Packet Radio System (GPRS) is the data service used by mobile devices when 3G/4G/5G is not available.

Generic Ethernet Access

Generic Ethernet Access is a type of leased line similar to Fibre To The Cabinet (FTTC) however it focuses the traffic over the ethernet network as opposed to the broadband.

Gigabyte

A Gigabyte(GB) is a unit of storage capacity. There are 1000 megabytes in one GB. 

Global Positioning System

Global Positioning System (GPS) is the technology used to locate the position of a mobile device on earth by receiving signals from orbiting satellites frequently used for mapping/navigation software.

Global System for Mobile Communications

The Global System for Mobile communications (GSM) is the internationally used standard platform for mobile phones.

GPRS

see General Packet Radio System

GPS

see Global Positioning System

Group Ringing

Group ringing is when multiple extensions ring as the result of a single number being dialled. This could be programmed in a group ring set-up where all extensions ring simultaneously or as a hunt group.

GSM

see Global System for Mobile Communications

H

Hard Drive

This is a piece of hardware used to store electronic information in a user’s computer. 

Hosted

Hosted telephony is a term used for cloud services that utilise the Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP). The user may have handsets in their premises but the telephone system is off-site, in a data centre for example, and the features are accessed via subscription user licences. See also Cloud and Centrex.

Hot Spot

A hot spot is a location enabling users to obtain internet access wirelessly.

Hub

A hardware device that is used to network multiple computers together. It is a central connection for all the computers in a network. Information sent to the hub can flow to any other computer on the network. If you need to connect more than two computers together, a hub will allow you to do so.  

Hunt Group

A hunt group is a rule applied to a telephone system that determines the order in which available extensions ring. This may be in a programmed order, first available or longest idle, for example.

Hybrid Cloud Computing

A mixture of both public and private cloud service options. 

I

ICQ

see Intelligent Cloud Queueing

ILF

see In Life Fault

IMEI

See International Mobile Equipment Identity.

In Life Fault

see Early Life Fault

Integrated Services Digital Network

Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) is a circuit used for digital transmissions of voice, data and other network services. They are utilised over the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN). The common circuits are ISDN2 and ISDN30. In 2015, BT announced that they would be phasing out ISDN solutions and switching the network off entirely. This means existing ISDN capacity is being ceased and new orders will be not be accepted. Come 2025, the whole ISDN copper network and all associated solutions will no longer be supported.

Intelligent Cloud Queueing

Intelligent Cloud Queuing (ICQ) is a call queueing software that automatically answers the call and then holds callers in order until a handler is available to answer. Features can include callers hearing their position in the queue or informative messages as well as the facility to request a call-back once they are at the front of the line.

Interactive Voice Response

Interactive Voice Response (IVR) is the ability for a computer or digital setup to interact with individuals e.g. inbound callers may transition through a telephone system to meet an appropriate destination. This may be a mix of voice and Dual-Tone Multi-Frequency (DTMF) inputs.

International Mobile Equipment Identity

International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) is a unique identity number assigned to a GSM device that can be recognised and blocked by the network to which it is connected. It is useful for fraud prevention and to bar access using a stolen phone. 

Internet of Things

Internet of Things (IOT): refers to the billions of devices worldwide that are connected to the internet to receive and transmit data. IOT SIM cards can be supplied for GSM (Global System for Mobile communications – the internationally used standard platform for mobile phones) units if required for lift/alarm lines and other analogue services. 

Internet Protocol

The Internet Protocol (IP) is the governing rules around the transmission of data via the internet or a network.

Internet Service Provider

An Internet Service Provider (ISP) is a supplier enabling internet connectivity.

IOT

see Internet of Things

IP

see Internet Protocol

IP Address

An IP address is a unique set of numbers that identify each device accessing the internet or a network.

ISDN

Integrated Services Digital Network

ISP

see Internet Service Provider

IVR

see Interactive Voice Response

K

KB

See Kilobyte.

Kilobyte

A Kilobyte (KB) is a measurement of data. Approximately one thousand bytes.  

L

LAN

see Local Area Network

Landline

A landline is the telephone that is traditionally brought to your home over copper, or fibre optic cable. 

Latency

The time it takes for a packet of data to travel from one destination to the next. High latency tends to have more impact than bandwidth on the end-user experience in interactive applications, such as web browsing. Low latency is required for many next-generation IP applications, such as VoIP, video telephony and PTT. 

Leased Line

A leased line is a dedicated line provided by an Internet Service Provider (ISP)

Letter Of Authority

A Letter Of Authority (LOA) is an OFCOM approved document completed by a client giving authorisation for an organisation (e.g. Premier Choice) to take ownership/control of telephone numbers currently operating with another service provider.

LLU

see Local Loop Unbundling

LOA

see Letter Of Authority

Local Area Network

A Local Area Network (LAN) is typically confined to a residence or office building and shares a common communications link which is not internet facing.

Local Loop Unbundling

Local Loop Unbundling (LLU) is the process of allowing numerous service operators to link connections from a telephone exchange to a client’s premises.

Long Term Evolution

Long Term Evolution (LTE) is standard for wireless broadband communications for mobiles and data devices.

LTE

see Long Term Evolution

M

MB

See Megabyte.

Media Relay Gateway

A Media Relay Gateway (MRG) is a component within a network that handles and converts media to make it compatible between multiple devices. An example of an MRG Device (Endpoint) in the Premier Choice Network is a remote telephone registered to a central Panasonic phone system in a different network location.

Megabyte

A Megabyte (MB) is a unit of measurement. Approximately 1,000,000 bytes.

Mobile Broadband

Broadband for your laptop or tablet. All you need is a USB connection and you can get broadband while “on the go” or “mobile”. This uses 3G/4G technology or the newer, faster 5G.

MOH

see Music On Hold

MPLS

see Multi-Protocol Label Switching

MRG

see Media Relay Gateway

Multi-Protocol Label Switching

Multi-Protocol Label Switching (MPLS) is a routing technique aimed at speeding up and shaping traffic flows across a network. This technique is used within our own Private Wide Area Network (PWAN).

Music On Hold

Music On Hold (MOH) is the audio that plays when a live call is paused by an end user.

N

Network

This is when two or more components are connected allowing resources to be shared between them. 

Network Termination

Network Termination (NT) is the connection of an end user’s Network Termination Equipment (NTE) to a carrier’s line that comes into the premises at the Network Termination Point (NTP).

Network Video Recorder

A Network Video Recorder (NVR) is a computer device that holds software capable of recording video in a digital format to a storage drive.

NT

see Network Termination

NVR

see Network Video Recorder

O

OFCOM (Office of Communications)

OFCOM are the regulatory body approved by the UK Government set with the task of overseeing all matters within television/radio and telecoms, that ensures fair competition and protects the public for harmful or offensive material.

Open Systems Interconnection

Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) is a model that standardises the communication functions of a telephone or computing system. There are 7 key layers in the model ranging from the physical layer through to the application layer.

Openreach

Openreach (OR) are the department of BT which maintains the telephone cabling, cabinets and exchanges within the UK that connect nearly all homes and businesses.

OR

see Openreach

OSI

see Open Systems Interconnection

P

Packet Switching

A technique in which a message is broken into smaller units called packets, which may be individually addressed and routed through the network, possibly using several different routes. The receiving-end node ascertains that all packets are received and in the proper sequence before forwarding the complete message to the addressee. 

PBX

see Private Branch Exchange

Plain Old Telephone Service

Plain Old Telephone System (POTS) is the predecessor term to Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN). It is the collection of analogue phone lines whose main purpose is to transmit voice calls.

POE

see Power Over Ethernet

Postal, Telegraph and Telephone service

A postal, telegraph, and telephone service (or PTT) is a government agency responsible for postal mail, telegraph, and telephone services.

POTS

see Plain Old Telephone Service

Power Over Ethernet

Power Over Ethernet (POE) is the ability to provide power to a device across a network cable without the need for a separate power cable.

Power Supply Unit

A Power Supply Unit (PSU) is a separate cable and/or unit commonly with a UK mains plug used to power a device.

PRI

see Primary Rate Interface

Primary Rate Interface

Primary Rate Interface (PRI) is part of an Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) configuration. It works on a larger scale compared to Basic Rate Interface (BRI) and is utilised by large users/enterprises. A common term heard is the connection of a “PRI Card” on a phone system.

Private Branch Exchange

A Private Branch Exchange (PBX) or telephone system is a control unit that primarily facilitates audio/video calls to a user’s site, or sites. Depending on its specification, a range of additional intuitive features can give users all the help they need during their calls: including queue announcements, live status monitoring, activity reports, automatic conversation recording and scheduled backup and reports.

Private Wide Area Network

A Private Wide Area Network (PWAN) is the joining of multiple broadband/ethernet connections to create robust and scalable network solution that is located in secure data centres with a centralised firewall.

Protocol

A set of procedures in telecommunications connections that the terminals or nodes use to send signals back and forth.  

PSTN

see Public Switched Telephone Network

PSU

see Power Supply Unit

PTT

See Postal, Telegraph and Telephone service.

Public Switched Telephone Network

Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) is a global term for the interconnection of public telephone networks over copper-based materials. They are primarily used for voice calls, fax machines, franking machines, card processing machines and connecting a modem for dial up internet (old technology). It is the foundation line for allowing DSL Services to operate.

PWAN

Private Wide Area Network

PWAN

see Private Wide Area Network

Q

Q Signalling

Q Signalling (QSIG) is the signalling protocol for ISDN which is utilised in Voice over IP (VoIP) networks and Virtual Private Networks (VPNs).

QOS

see Quality Of Service

QSIG

See Q Signalling

Quality Of Service

Quality Of Service (QOS) is a feature configured on a device that can prioritise data traffic dependent on its use. For example, VoIP calls can be given a higher priority over web browsing/e-mail traffic.

R

Range Holder

A Range Holder (RH) is the communication provider that has been allocated a range of telephone numbers by OFCOM.

RDP

see Remote Desktop Protocol

Remote Desktop Protocol

Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) is the ability for a user to connect to another computer utilising a graphical interface and a network connection.

RH

see Range Holder

Roaming

Ability of a mobile user to access cellular services while away from the home network. This includes automated roaming between GSM networks, SIM-based roaming, where a user switches the SIM card into a mobile phone from a different network, or roaming across technologies. Roaming can take place within one country and across national boundaries. In a WLAN context, roaming occurs when a mobile device disassociates from one access point and then re-associates with a new access point. When roaming abroad, high charges can occur. 

Router

The router is a piece of hardware that allows two or more networks to be connected so that data can be transferred between them. The router sees and directs the data to the correct location. They are the crucial devices that let messages flow between networks.  

S

SDSL

Symmetric Digital Subscriber Line

Server

This is a host computer on a network that stores information, such as websites, and responds to requests for information. A server responds to requests across a computer network to provide, or help to provide, a network service. Servers can be run on a dedicated computer, which is also often referred to as “the server”, but many networked computers are capable of hosting servers.  

Service Set Identifier

A Service Set Identifier (SSID) is a unique name which allows you to differentiate between other networks when connecting to a device over WiFi.

Session Initiated Protocol

Session Initiated Protocol (SIP) is a method to which voice/video/messaging and other communication applications can initiate/maintain/modify and terminate real-time sessions between two endpoints on an Internet Protocol (IP) network.

Single Order Generic Ethernet Access

Single Order Generic Ethernet Access (SOGEA) is your closest alternative to FTTC broadband and is available to order in many exchange areas. It is broadband, but without the requirement for an underlying PSTN line, which means the connection is more reliable with less chance of interference and instability.

Single Order Transitional Access Product

Single Order Transitional Access Product (SOTAP) is a new product to replace ADSL connections. SOTAP delivers a copper path between the end user’s premises and the exchange infrastructure, providing a better experience for customers moving away from end of life WLR (Wholesale Line Rental) products. This is also only deliverable in certain areas at this moment in time but BT are working to broaden this reach.

SIP

see Session Initiated Protocol

SIP Trunking

SIP Trunking is the use of Voice over IP (VoIP) to facilitate connection of an existing telephone system to an IP telephony platform. Once connected, a business continues to operate their telephone system in the same manner to make and receive calls. SIP trunking provides customers with all the benefits of cutting-edge VoIP technology, without the need to replace a system they may just have invested in. By simply installing SIP trunking technology into their current telephone system, businesses can enjoy the highest quality voice communications, which is not only cheaper than traditional phone lines, but gives businesses the freedom to grow. 

SMDR

see Station Message Detail Record

Softphone

A softphone is a software programme (such as an app) enabling a user to make and receive calls through their device (computer, laptop, tablet or smartphone) rather than via a physical handset. These are frequently used to facilitate remote working.

SOGEA

see Single Order Generic Ethernet Access

SOTAP

see Single Order Transitional Access Product

SSID

see Service Set Identifier

Station Message Detail Record

Station Message Detail Record (SMDR) is a log of call detail made be an telephony endpoint.

Streaming

This is when you watch or listen to a multimedia file as it’s downloading, such as when watching a film or listening to digital radio. It means you don’t have to fully download and save the file beforehand. 

Symmetric Digital Subscriber Line

Symmetric Digital Subscriber Line (SDSL) is a type of Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) which transmits digital data over the copper wires of a telephone network. Speeds can vary dependent on location and product but can reach up to 22.5Mb/s.

T

Temperature Screening

Temperature Screening is a non-invasive, non-contact method of reading the body temperature of individuals within range by using a Thermal or Thermographic Camera. See also Thermography.

The Last Mile

The part of the network that runs from the exchange to the customer’s premises. Despite the name, the last mile can be over 100 miles long. 

Thermal/Thermographic Cameras

Thermal or Thermographic Cameras are CCTV devices capable of reading the temperatures of objects in an area of focus. More specifically, cameras equipped with Artificial Intelligence (AI) can detect faces to accurately screen the skin temperature of individuals within range.

Thermography

Thermography is the use of cameras to detect heat radiation and convert these readings into temperature values via an algorithm. See also Thermal/Thermographic Cameras or Temperature Screening.

Throttling

This term refers to internet service providers deliberately slowing down (or throttling) internet connections to certain customers and/or at certain times. It is also referred to as ‘traffic management’ or ‘traffic shaping’. It is most commonly employed during peak broadband usage times and against customers deemed to have overstepped their usage cap or fair usage policy terms. These measures are often temporary and used as a deterrent against those downloading large amounts of data. 

U

UM

see Unified Messaging

Unified Messaging

Unified Messaging (UM) is the integration of different media types into a single interface accessible from multiple devices. An example of UM is Voicemail within a phone system.

Uninterruptable Power Supply

An Uninterruptable Power Supply (UPS) us a secondary device that can supply power for a limited period while the primary power supply/feed is disrupted.

Upload Speed/Upstream

This term describes how fast your broadband connection can send data from your computer. A good example of uploading is sending your photos to an online website or portal, or sending emails. Anything that goes across the internet from your computer is considered to be ‘uploaded’. Similarly, anything coming in the other way is being ‘downloaded’ (anything from getting your emails or a web page to live streaming television). 

UPS

see Uninterruptable Power Supply

V

Virtual Private Network

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a link over the internet between multiple sites with increased security in comparison to standard internet transmissions.

Voice over Internet Protocol

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is method to which voice calls route over the internet. This term is interchangeable with ‘Hosted’.

VoIP

see Voice over Internet Protocol

VPN

see Virtual Private Network

W

WAN

see Wide Area Network

Wholesale Line Rental

Wholesale Line Rental (WLR) allows service providers to brand themselves over the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN). BT Openreach (in the UK) ultimately maintain and repair the lines however service providers (such as Premier Choice) can supply services to their clients without having to maintain the network itself.

WiFi

WiFi is the technology that allows a wireless connection to the internet.

WLR

see Wholesale Line Rental