D-F
definition list
A glossary list in HTML that's created using the DL (Definition List) element.
demoware
A term describing demo software programs that have certain key functions (such as saving and printing) turned off. Sometimes also called
crippleware.
See also shareware.
destination anchor
A named anchor inserted into a Web page that marks a destination to which a hypertext link can jump. Also referred to as a
target anchor.
See also anchor.
dithering
To create a new color by interspersing pixels of multiple colors so that the human eye "mixes" them and perceives the intended color. Used to display colors that are not available on a system (such as with 256-color systems).
DOM
The Document Object Model, which is an interface model that allows programs and scripts to dynamically access and manipulate objects and elements within an HTML or XHTML document. The key component for enabling
Dynamic HTML.
domain category
A grouping of domain names identified by their extension, such as .com, .org, .net, .edu, .mil, and .gov.
domain name
An alphanumeric alternative to an IP address. Both are registered with InterNIC (Internet Network Information Center).
download
To transfer files from a server to a client.
See also upload.
Dynamic HTML
Various means of providing dynamic Web content to respond interactively to user or system actions.
ECMAScript
A specification developed by the European Computer Manufacturers Association to standardize the implementation of client-side scripting languages on the Web. The initial ECMAScript specification was based on a subset of JavaScript; JavaScript is currently considered as an implementation of ECMAScript.
element
The basic code component of an HTML document.
See also block element.
See also inline element.
See also container element.
See also empty element.
em
In printing, an em corresponds to the width of a capital "M" letter within a font, but in CSS it a relative measuring unit that is relative to the default or parent font-size.
empty element
An element formed from a single tag (with a
start tag but no
end tag). The IMG element is an empty element, for instance.
See also container element.
end tag
The end of a non-empty HTML element (</p>, for example).
See also start tag.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions. Generally a compilation of common questions and their answers within a particular technical area.
favorites
A feature in Microsoft Internet Explorer that is similar to Netscape Navigator's bookmarks feature, allowing you to save a list of your favorite Web pages.
firewall
A gateway device or software program designed to protect non-public areas of a network from being penetrated by unauthorized visitors (or hackers).
frames
An extension to HTML, pioneered by Netscape, and incorporated into HTML 4.0. Allows HTML documents to be presented inside multiple frames in a browser window.
freeware
A software program that can be freely used. Freeware software is still copyrighted and is not in the public domain. The author may place restrictions on use (such as using only non-commercial use) and may limit redistribution.
FTP
File Transfer Protocol. The protocol used for downloading or uploading ASCII and binary files on the Internet.