D

Database –

Software that enables the storage of data, the retrieval of that data, and the ability to add to and change the stored data when necessary.

Database Publishing –

Allows businesses to leverage existing data and data management assets. Many of today’s database applications can create files usable by electronic publishing software. By establishing communication the database can continue managing data, and the publishing system can be used as an information synthesis tool to gather data from a variety of sources (databases, graphics, and text) and present it in a single, cohesive document.

DBMS (DataBase Management System) –

Software that controls the organization, storage, retrieval, security and integrity of data in a database. It accepts requests from the application and instructs the operating system to transfer the appropriate data.

Digital Certificate –

A small piece of unique data used by encryption and authentication software. A digital-based ID that contains a user’s information. It accomplishes this by attaching a small file containing the certificate owner’s name, the name of its issuer and a public encryption key to the information that is transmitted over the Internet.

Directories –

A directory is basically a manual entry database system for which a URL is submitted along with a descriptive title and summary for the website.

Disk Pack –

An assembly of magnetic disks that can be removed from a disk drive along with the container from which the assembly must be separated when operating.

Domain name –

Unique address of a website. The address that gets you to a website, and consists of a hierarchical sequence of names separated by dots (periods). Also known as a web address. It can identify one or more IP addresses. See URL.

Domain Name System (DNS) –

People use the domain name addressing system, whereas computers use the Domain Name System. A DNS takes a domain name address and automatically translates that address into a numerical IP address via DNS servers (also called name servers), maintain databases that contain the web addresses/domain name. The IP address is then used by services such as packet-routing software and computers to get data packets to their destination. Note: DNS is also the acronym for the “Domain Name Service,” which is the Internet utility that implements the Domain Name System.

Doorway page –

Also known as bridge page, portal page, jump page, gateway page, entry page, a doorway page is a web page that is designed primarily for search engines, not for human beings. The term can also refer to a web page that serves only as an entry point through which users click to go to the actual homepage. In the latter instance, a doorway page is created for each of the leading search engines. The only time a user sees one of these doorway pages is when they click on a link from a search engine’s result page.

Dot-com –

A company with operations are entirely or primarily internet-based. While a dot-com may deliver all their services over an Internet interface, the company’s products may be delivered through traditional channels.

DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) –

A technology that delivers high-bandwidth over ordinary copper telephone lines.

DSU/CSU (Digital or Data Service Unit/ Channel Service Unit) –

Communication devices that connect an in-house line to an external digital circuit, such as a T1, DDS, etc. A DSU/CSU is similar to a modem, although it connects a digital circuit rather than an analog one.

Dynamic Web page –

The dynamic change in the contents of a web page through the use of a separate file wherein the current contents of that file is displayed on all pages connected to the underlying database whenever a browser requests a web page.