Definitions[]
(Noun) A port is
| “ | an interface by which a computer communicates with another device or system.[1] It is generally a software-created access point — a "logical connection place" — for moving information into and out of a computer. Each communications service on a computer (e.g., FTP, e-mail, Web) is assigned a port number. Ports are numbered from 0 to 65535. Ports 0 to 1023 are reserved for use by certain privileged services. | ” |
| “ | [a] physical entry or exit point of a cryptographic module that provides access to the module for physical signals, represented by logical information flows (physically separated ports do not share the same physical pin or wire).[2] | ” |
| “ | [a] point of access where signals may be inserted or extracted into or out of a device. . . .[3] | ” |
| “ | an application or process-specific channel of communication between systems over a network.[4] | ” |
(Verb) To port (also called source migration) means
| “ | to convert a computer program from one platform to another, or from one operating system to another on the same platform. | ” |
| “ | [t]he act of moving information from one carrier or in some form or codec to another.[5] | ” |
Overview[]
Personal computers have various types of ports. Internally, there are several ports for connecting disk drives, display screens, and keyboards. Externally, personal computers have ports for connecting modems, printers, mice, and other peripheral devices.
References[]
- ↑ A "port" has also been defined as "[t]he entry or exit point from a computer for connecting communications or peripheral devices." NIST Special Publication 800-82, at B-6.
- ↑ Glossary of Key Information Security Terms, at 143.
- ↑ Unified Capabilities, Framework 2013, App. C, at C-35 (full-text).
- ↑ ARSC Guide to Audio Preservation, Glossary, App. B, at 228.
- ↑ Id.