Glossary

This course assumes a general understanding of the following terms (sorted alphabetically):

Anycast	Anycast is a system which allows multiple Servers to use a single IP Address. Whenever a Client requests a connection, the system routes it to the most available Server, typically the closest or least congested one.
Browser	Renders Websites on a Client machine, based on data provided by Servers.
CDN	A Content Delivery Network is typically an Anycast network built with the purpose to deliver Static content with maximum efficiency.
Cache	Stores frequently accessed data from Servers on a special server (such as a Proxy), or in the Client‘s Browser. These can be Static content, or entire pre-generated Websites.
Client	A Client is any computer on the Internet which requests data or other resources from a Server. It uses Domains and DNS to facilitate this connection.
DNS	The Domain Name System (DNS for short) translates human-readable Domains into computer-readable IP Addresses using a system of records. Sometimes, it can also store other information, such as various Domain settings or verification data. DNS is often handled by Domain Registrars or Hosting providers, which provide specialized Servers for DNS lookup.
Domain	An Internet Domain is a human-readable name for services on the Internet. It typically consists of two or more dot-separated parts, the last of which is called Top-Level Domain (or TLD for short). For example, `wedos.global` and `learn.wedos.global` are both domains, with `.global` being the TLD. Every domain requires DNS to operate.
Hosting	Renting an Internet service, such as web, email, or custom Server.
IP Address	A special number assigned to a single device, or an entire system (Anycast) on the Internet. DNS uses these numbers to assign Domains to the corresponding Servers.
Internet	The Internet is a global network of interconnected computers (Clients and Servers) that communicate using standardized protocols to share information and services. It enables access to websites, email, file sharing, and other online resources.
Provider	A company providing services, such as DNS or Hosting. Domain providers are called registrars.
Proxy	A special Server interposed between the Client and target (typically) web Server. Its role is typically to filter traffic, including various cyber attacks, and Cache content. Proxy servers are an important part of the WEDOS.global Anycast system.
Registrar	An entity mediating the purchase of Domains between physical or legal persons and designated domain registries. Registrars also typically provide DNS services.
Registry	An entity managing one or multiple TLDs, as well as the corresponding DNS servers. Allows Registrars to sell domains to their customers.
Server	A powerful computer connected to the Internet. It typically serves a special purpose, such as serving web pages or emails. Domains use DNS to guide Clients to Servers.
Static Content	Static content are files stored on the Server, rather than those that are generated dynamically based on user input or other data. Examples include images, fonts, or simple (HTML) websites.
Top-Level Domain (TLD)	The last part of a Domain name, such as .eu, .com, or .website.
Website	Structured content being generated by a web Server and delivered to the Browser.