This refers to the means by which your web browser connects to another site via the Internet. Java - A internet specific set of controls that allows a web site to run interactive programs, animations, sounds, scrolls, etc. It is supported by almost all web browsers now. JavaScript - Basically does the same things that Java does, except JavaScript is imbedded directly into web pages themselves. Modem - A piece of electronic hardware that attaches your computer to a telephone line.
Modems can be internal or external, and operate at different speeds.
PPP - P oint to P oint P rotocol. This refers to the textual version of the Internet. No graphics are involved in a shell account. Normally, you can access email, a text web browser, gopher and other various tools. Web sites carry a wide variety of information, entertainment, and services.