While terms such as SSL and OSI Model make the top 15 tech terms nearly every week, technology trends (like everything else) often come and go with the changing tides. Technologies still in their infancy branch off into wireless or Web-based variations before standards are even written in fine print.
As we begin 2006, it’s a good time to take note of a number of new computer and technology terms added to Webopedia in 2005. In our top 10 Tech Terms list we have some technologies that could be considered the best new technologies to hit mainstream in 2005, while others represent new technologies sure to make even more headlines in 2006.
64-bit computing
Webopedia Definition
While not a new technology in the world of supercomputing, 64-bit computing is heading to desktop PCs. With Microsoft’s long-awaited 64-bit operating system available, it’s only a matter of time until more choices for 64-bit software become available thereby making 64-bit computing an attractive solution for business and home computing needs.
- Webopedia Reference “Did You Know… What is 64-bit Computing“.
Dual-Core
Webopedia Definition
A dual-core processor has many advantages especially for those looking to boost their system’s multitasking computing power. Dual-core processors provide two complete execution cores instead of one, allowing the operating system sufficient resources to handle intensive tasks in parallel. Both AMD and Intel filled the press release wires with Dual-Core announcements in 2005 much to the delight of multi-taskers everywhere.
- Webopedia Reference “Did You Know… All About Dual Core“.
IPS (intrusion prevention system)
Webopedia Definition
2Virus and security debates continue to abound, bringing intrusion prevention systems (IPSs) and similar solutions to the forefront of technology this year. The theory is that by investing in prevention systems, business can save on downtime and recovery with the real-time monitoring and alert benefits provided by an IPS solution.
- Small Business Computing 2005 News & Trends: “V-Secure Aims to Stop Intrusion Attacks“.
mash-up
Webopedia Definition
What was started by hackers is now seen as a new breed of Web-based application. Over the last couple of years, Web services have expanded to become more popular with application developers and for good reason. Web services technology represents an important way for businesses to communicate with each other and with clients as well. Mash-ups mix at least two different services from disparate, and even competing, Web sites.
- Webopedia Reference “Did You Know… Understanding Web Services“.
moblog
Webopedia Definition
While blogs first appeared in 2004, in 2005 blogs and blogging went mainstream, especially with the introduction of moblogs. Mobile blogging (called mblog or moblog for short) has added to the blogging trend for 2005. With the increased demand for consumer and business mobile devices, we’re certainly not surprised to see moblogging gaining in popularity.
- Small Business Computing 2005 News & Trends: “Yahoo Finally Hits Blog Scene“.
satellite broadband
Webopedia Definition
In an attempt to bring faster Internet connection services to homes and businesses where DSL and cable aren’t options, Satellite broadband has been making the news. While DSL and cable still put it to shame, dial-up users are watching this technology with interest.
- Small Business Computing Web Management: “Satellite Equals Broadband Lite“.
spear phishing
Webopedia Definition
With phishing scams running rampant, so is the information on how to protect yourself and your company from them. Looking to mess up those well-laid-out plans comes the new phishing spear phishing. In theory, spear phishing is a bit more risky since this type of phishing attack targets a single user or department within an organization, where the e-mail appears to be from someone within the company in a position of trust.
- Webopedia Reference: “Did You Know… All About Phishing“.
VoIP
Webopedia Definition
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) definitely gets the vote as “The Term” for 2005. From the capability to place a call to the other side of the world via your Internet connection for free, to large corporate and enterprise telephony savings it looks as if the buzz surrounding of VoIP, as hot as this topic already is is just the beginning.
- Small Business Computing Buyer’s Guide: “VoIP – A Primer for Small Business“.
VoWiFi
Webopedia Definition
In a world that loves wireless, we were not at all surprised to see discussions run from VoIP to VoWiFi (which is essentially the wireless version of the technology which enables people to use the Internet as the transmission medium for telephone calls). We certainly expect to hear a lot more buzz about VoWiFi in the coming year.
- Webopedia Reference: “Did You Know… When VoIP Meets WiFi“.
Web collaboration
Webopedia Definition
Saving time and money was on the agenda for many small businesses in 2005, and helping them to achieve this goal is Web collaboration. Rather than racking up hours of long distance charges and paying large support teams, Web collaboration packages and tools offers the back-end software or service that allows your center to share Web pages with customers while offering voice and text chat assistance or to conduct single or multi-user conferences and seminars.
- Small Business Computing Web Management: “EnKoo Adds Web Conferencing“.
Did You Know…
Satellite’s success is keeping many multiple system operator (MSO) executives up at night. The cable industry’s two biggest players will emerge slightly bigger as a result of the dissolution of a third, but the industry overall will experience little organic growth. Both satellite and cable are preparing to address the threat of the deployment of video services by telcos in 2006.
[Source: JupiterResearch]
Based in Nova Scotia, Vangie Beal is has been writing about technology for more than a decade. She is a frequent contributor to EcommerceGuide and managing editor at Webopedia. You can tweet her online @AuroraGG.
This article was originally published on January 27, 2006
