Database - 1.A large collection of data organized for rapid search and retrieval. 2.A program that manages data, and can be used to store, retrieve, and sort information.Some database programs are Lotus Approach, Microsoft Access, Filemaker, and dBASE.

Data Compression Protocols - Compression of data by the modem allows more information to be transferred in a shorter time frame. Protocols for data compression include CCITT V.42bis and MNP 5,

Data Transmission Protocols - These are standards for modulation and transmission of data at various speeds. The standards are Bell 103 V.21 for 300bps, Bell 212A V.22 for 1200bps, V.22bis for 2400bps, V.32 for 9600bps and V.32 bis for 14,400bps. Proprietary protocols are also used extensively for higher baud rates.

Default - An instruction that a computer assumes, unless the user gives it other instructions.For example, if the default typeface on a word processing program is Times Roman, the user may instruct the machine to use a different default typeface; once the program is opened, a variety of types may be used, regardless of the default setting.

Default Browser - The World Wide Web browser you want your computer system to automatically open up or launch when an HTML or Web page file is clicked on.

Defragment - A fragmented hard disk has parts of files stored in many different locations.To retrieve a file, the computer must search and retrieve all the fragments.Defragmenting a disk puts all the parts of each file together in one location.This reduces the time the computer spends locating files.

Desktop - In graphical user interfaces, a desktop is the metaphor used to portray file systems. Such a desktop consists of pictures, called icons, that show cabinets, files, folders, and various types of documents (that is, letters, reports, pictures). You can arrange the icons on the electronic desktop just as you can arrange real objects on a real desktop -- moving them around, putting one on top of another, reshuffling them, and throwing them away.

Discussion Forum - An area online focused on a specific topic where users can read and add or "post" comments ("post" in the sense of posting something on a bulletin board). You can find discussion groups, also referred to as "discussion boards," for almost any topic.

Directories - Similar to search engines, directories are indexes of Web pages organized by subject.

Directory Tree - The organization of directories (or folders) and files and on a hard drive, like the branches of an upside-down tree.The main directory is called the "root directory".

DLL - (Dynamic Link Library) very similar to an actual computer program which runs as software on a PC, but a DLL is usually run or loaded as a part of an regular computer program.

Domain Name - The Domain Name is a unique name that represents each computer on the Internet. For example~ “www.websitecompass.com” is a Domain Name. The “com” indicates that Website Compass is a commercial organization.

Double Click - To click the mouse button twice; used to open programs and files.

Download - To copy a file from a remote computer "down" to your computer. Receiving a file from a system on the Internet.

Driver - A driver is software that works in conjunction with the particular hardware or device on your computer. Drivers are used for video displays, modems, hard-drives, mouse, and almost every device. If you have an old driver or an improper driver the device might not work properly or reliably.

DSL - Digital Subscriber Line - A new technology that allows you to access the Internet over standard phone lines at very high speeds.

DTE - Data Terminal Equipment. The device that is the originator or destination of the data sent by a modem.

DTR - Data Terminal Ready. A signal generated by most modems indicating a connection between the DTE (computer) and the modem. When DTR is high the computer is connected.

DUN (Dial Up Networking) A feature within Windows that permits modem connections to other machines or networks including the Internet.