Glossary: Popular IT Terms Found In Property Management

This article is aimed at providing information about popular terms and acronyms typically used within IT which many Building Managers and Building Engineers may need to know to successfully manage their property.

Networking Basics

• Internet: Global network of interconnected computers and servers.
• ISP (Internet Service Provider): Company that provides internet service to a building. (eg: Cox, AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, Dobson)
• WAN (Wide Area Network): The building’s connection to the internet, provided by an ISP.
• LAN (Local Area Network): Internal on-site network within a building.
• VLAN (Virtual LAN): Logical separation of networks on the same network hardware using different IP ranges for security and organization.
• BYOD: Bring Your Own Device - Usually an individual's personal computer, smart phone, etc.

Wireless & Remote Access

• WiFi:Wireless networking that provides local connectivity and typically internet access.
  • In IT parlance, saying "the WiFi is down" means IT is needed to troubleshoot a WiFi outage. Technicians will proceed with troubleshooting if a wireless network is failing to operate. Many can cause inadvertent confusion claiming WiFi is down when they actually mean the Internet isn't working.
• SSID: The visible name of a WiFi network (e.g., Robinson Park BYOD).
• Guest WiFi: Isolated wireless network for visitors, typically internet-only access.
• VPN (Virtual Private Network): Secure connection allowing remote access to a network.

Core Network Infrastructure

• Router: Directs traffic between networks (acts as the network “traffic cop”).
• Switch: Connects devices within a network; often used to extend wired connectivity.
• Access Point (AP): Provides WiFi by extending the wired network wirelessly.
• Modem: ISP-provided device that delivers internet service to the building.

Addressing & Network Services

• IP Address: Unique numerical identifier for a device on a network.
• DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol): Automatically assigns IP addresses to devices. Can also reserve specific IPs for known devices.
• Static IP: A fixed IP address that does not change (used for servers, printers, etc.).
• Dynamic IP: Temporary IP assigned by DHCP that may change over time.

Physical Infrastructure

• Ethernet (CAT5e/CAT6/CAT6a): Standard copper network cabling (limit ~100 meters or ~300 feet).
• Fiber (Single Mode / Multi Mode): High-speed cabling for long distances (building-to-building or backbone runs). Single Mode spans distance (between buildings far apart) while Multi Mode spans distance within large buildings (the 30th floor to the basement).
• Patch Panel: Central termination point for building cabling inside a network closet. Popular spot for where an office network wall jack would connect.
• Riser Room: Vertical pathway/closet between floors for cabling and other infrastructure like plumbing and power.
• MDF (Main Distribution Frame): Primary network room (firewall, router, core network switches).
• IDF (Intermediate Distribution Frame): Secondary network closets that extend the MDF to other areas of a building where a network connection is needed.

Systems & Devices

• Server: A computer that provides services (files, applications, cameras, building automation, etc.), usually with a static IP.
• NVR (Network Video Recorder): Server dedicated to recording and viewing camera footage.
• UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply): Battery backup that protects equipment from power loss.

Building Systems

• HVAC: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.
• BAS (Building Automation System): Controls building systems like HVAC, lighting, etc.
• EMS (Energy Management System): Optimizes energy usage and monitoring.

Security & Communications

• Access Control: Badge/fob-based system to control entry to secure areas.
• CCTV / Security Cameras: Video surveillance systems (modern term: IP cameras).
• VOIP (Voice over IP): Phone system that uses the network/internet instead of traditional phone lines.
• Hard Phone: Physical desk phone.
• Soft Phone: App-based phone on a computer or mobile device.

Cellular & Mobility

• DAS (Distributed Antenna System): Improves cellular signal coverage within a building.
• BYOD (Bring Your Own Device): Policy allowing personal devices on the network.