An indispensable tool for novices as well as seasoned computer users, the Dictionary of Computer and Internet Words takes the mystery out of computer and Internet terminology. It puts all the information computer users need right at their fingertips, in entries that fully explain the technology without a lot of technological jargon. The Dictionary of Computer and Internet Words will help readers make their way successfully through computer manuals, help files, websites, and the computer section of the newspaper. It contains hundreds of completely new entries covering topics from degaussers to denial-of-service attacks, from exabytes to e-zines, from hash functions to heat sinks. Here is a sample of the new information found in the Dictionary of Computer and Internet Words: MIS -- Abbreviation of management information system. A computer system designed for a place of business that allows managers to organize, manipulate, and access data efficiently and effectively. The nature of the system can vary from an expensive mainframe to a local area network. packet sniffer -- A program that intercepts data transmitted over the Internet and translates it back into readable text. Network administrators use packet sniffers to help locate and relieve network congestion. Packet sniffers are also used for illicit purposes such as obtaining passwords or credit card numbers. petabyte -- A unit of measurement of computer memory or data storage capacity equal to 1,125,899,906,842,624 (250) bytes. One petabyte equals 1,024 terabytes.