Mirror site
A copy of a website. It may increase access to a very busy website, or spread knowledge of a website, or preserve a website that is being closed down.
Modem
Equipment which enables you to connect to the internet. It may be built in to your computer or be separate. Broadband is the fastest internet option.
Moderated group
Similar to a discussion forum, but has all its posted messages checked by someone before appearing. A moderated chatroom will be scrutinised by a responsible person.
Monitor
Another word for a computer screen. They come in different sizes, and if you have trouble reading the screen, a larger one could be helpful.
Mouse
A small piece of equipment which lets you communicate with your computer. It has a ball underneath. As you roll it around on the table or mouse mat, a pointer moves around the screen. You click on a button to make things happen on your computer. Laptops and netbooks have built-in mice, the square touchpad in front of the keyboard. If you can’t see the screen you will not be able to use a mouse, but will use the keyboard.
Mouse pointer
The symbol on the screen that represents the current position of the mouse.
The net
Short for the internet.
Netbook
Smaller than a laptop and not so powerful.
Network
One or more computers connected together so they can share data and programs, the biggest example of a network is the internet itself.
Networking website
You can have a webpage on a networking website describing yourself and it lets you be in touch with others. Well-known networking sites are My Space, Facebook and Twitter.
Newsgroup
Like a discussion forum, but may not be web-based, in which case you will need newsreader software. Your ISP will tell you which newsgroups it supports.
Notice board or message board
These allows you to post messages so they can be read by other people on the internet.
Offline
Not being connected to the internet or email. If you use dialup for emails, you can save yourself money by writing emails in your word-processor then copy them into an email to send.
Online
Connected to the internet. With broadband, you are always online and you won’t save money by closing your internet connection down.
Open a new window
When you hear this message, if you are using WebbiE, press CONTROL X ENTER, not just ENTER. When you have finished whatever you are doing in that new window, you must close it first before getting back to the webpage you ware previously on.