RAID

Redundant Array of Independant Disks. Usually found just in servers, RAID is the most reliable form of data protection using 2 or more hard disks protecting the server from hard disk failure.

RAM

Random Access Memory. Volatile memory (meaning it forgets what it is holding when switched off) which is used for temporarily storing data for programs and the Operating System itself.

RealAudio

A piece of software which allows audio to be transmitted across the Internet and allows the user to listen to it whilst it is being downloaded, ie. it doesn't have to be downloaded first in order to listen to it.

Reboot

A term which basically means resetting the machine and allowing it to go through all its initial checks and back into the Operating System.

Resolution

The clarity of output on a printer or monitor. Printers are measured in Dots Per Inch (DPI), where the higher the value the better the quality. Monitors are compared using the total number of dots it can produce horizontally and then vertically, such as 1024 x 768 (which is a good resolution currently).

ROM

Read Only Memory. Non-volatile memory (ie. it remembers what is stored in it when the power is switched off) mainly used for storing specific information about hardware, such as what settings a soundcard has.

Router

A device which connects two or more networks together