chip
go to BBCi go to the Open University information communication technology
go to Open2.NET
learn/glossary
technology
introduction
computers
operating systems
organisations
software
communication
introduction
networks
internet
devices
security
application
introduction
what they can do
human-computer interaction
computing & life
learning
journey
timeline
OU courses
further reading
bookclub
links
glossary
sitemap
feedback
copyright

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

L
LAN Local Area Network

Most work places have their computers on a network, also known as a LAN. LANs allow users to move files around the networks of computers connected to the LAN. Some LANs are connected to the Internet, but without the protection of a firewall, there can be security risks.

LINUX
A UNIX-like operating system that was designed by enthusiasts to provide a free or very low-cost operating system. Initially developed by Linus Torvalds at the University of Helsinki in Finland, its open sourced approach allowed final development to be achieved by hundreds of other enthusiasts. Linux is publicly open and extendible by contributors. It has all of the components usually found in a UNIX system, including a GUI, a Windows-like system, TCP/IP and text editing.

Login
A login name is a series of letters or numbers that have to be inputted before you can log in to a computer, or an email account, or internet connection. A login provides basic security for users.