CSS NC II Glossary

Comprehensive Reference Guide

A comprehensive glossary of terms, definitions, and concepts related to Computer Systems Servicing NC II. Use this reference guide to enhance your understanding of key concepts.

Hardware Components

CPU (Central Processing Unit)

The primary component of a computer that processes instructions and performs calculations.

Example:

Intel Core i7, AMD Ryzen 5

RAM (Random Access Memory)

Temporary storage that holds data and instructions for the CPU to process.

Example:

8GB DDR4, 16GB DDR5

Motherboard

The main circuit board that connects all computer components.

Example:

ATX, Micro-ATX, Mini-ITX

NIC (Network Interface Card)

Hardware component that enables a computer to connect to a network.

Example:

Ethernet card, Wireless adapter

Network Terms

LAN (Local Area Network)

A network that connects computers within a limited geographical area.

Example:

Office network, Home network

WAN (Wide Area Network)

A network that covers a large geographical area, often connecting multiple LANs.

Example:

Internet, Corporate network across cities

IP Address

A unique numerical identifier assigned to devices on a network.

Example:

192.168.1.1, 10.0.0.1

DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol)

A protocol that automatically assigns IP addresses to devices on a network.

Example:

Router DHCP server

DNS (Domain Name System)

A system that translates domain names into IP addresses.

Example:

google.com → 8.8.8.8

Server Administration

Domain Controller

A server that manages network authentication and directory services.

Example:

Active Directory Domain Controller

File Server

A server that provides file storage and sharing services to network clients.

Example:

Network file share, NAS device

Web Server

A server that hosts websites and web applications.

Example:

Apache, Nginx, IIS

Database Server

A server that manages and stores database information.

Example:

MySQL, SQL Server, PostgreSQL

Maintenance & Repair

Preventive Maintenance

Regular maintenance performed to prevent system failures.

Example:

Cleaning, updates, inspections

Corrective Maintenance

Repair work performed after a system failure.

Example:

Replacing failed components

ESD (Electrostatic Discharge)

The sudden flow of electricity between electrically charged objects.

Example:

Static electricity damage to components

BIOS/UEFI

Firmware that initializes hardware during the boot process.

Example:

System configuration, Boot order

Cabling & Connectors

UTP (Unshielded Twisted Pair)

A type of cable with twisted pairs of wires without shielding.

Example:

Cat5e, Cat6, Cat6a cables

STP (Shielded Twisted Pair)

A type of cable with twisted pairs of wires with additional shielding.

Example:

Industrial network cables

RJ45

A standardized connector used for Ethernet network connections.

Example:

Network cable connector

Crimping

The process of attaching connectors to the end of cables.

Example:

Making network cables

Security

Firewall

A security system that monitors and controls network traffic.

Example:

Windows Firewall, Router firewall

Encryption

The process of encoding data to prevent unauthorized access.

Example:

SSL/TLS, BitLocker

Authentication

The process of verifying the identity of a user or system.

Example:

Username/password, Biometric

Authorization

The process of determining what resources a user can access.

Example:

File permissions, User rights

Important Disclaimer

This website is an independent educational resource created by an assistant trainer and aspiring TESDA CSS NC II instructor. It is not affiliated with or endorsed by TESDA. All materials are meant to support learners and trainees in understanding and preparing for the CSS NC II assessment based on publicly available information and practical experience.

© 2025 CSS NC II Training Companion App. A project by John Micheal Acera | johnmichealacera.com