Glossary
4G (fourth generation)
Wireless technologies, including HSPA+, LTE, LTE advanced and LTE advanced pro, as defined by the International Telecommunications Union.
5G (fifth generation)
The next generation of converged wireless technologies, expected to provide higher speeds, improved coverage and lower latency, all of which are critical as the number of connected devices continues to increase rapidly.
Artificial intelligence (AI)
A simulation of human intelligence in machines that are programmed to learn and reason like humans, performing complex tasks and adapting to new situations. Generative AI (GenAI) is a type of AI that can produce a wide variety of data, such as images, videos, audio, text and 3D models. It detects patterns in existing data, then applies those patterns to generate unique new outputs.
Fibre-optic network
Hair-thin glass fibres along which light pulses are transmitted. Optical fibre networks are used to transmit large amounts of data between locations at high upload and download speeds.
Fibre to the x (FTTx)
A collective term for any broadband network architecture using optical fibre to replace all or part of the existing copper local loops. FTTH denotes fibre to the home, FTTP denotes fibre to the premises and FTTN denotes fibre to the node or neighbourhood.
HSPA+ (high-speed packet access plus)
A 4G technology capable of delivering manufacturer-rated wireless data download speeds of up to 21 Mbps (typical speeds of 4 to 6 Mbps). HSPA+ dual-cell technology can double those download speeds.
Incumbent local exchange carrier (ILEC)
An established telecommunications company providing local telephone service. Non-ILEC refers to the telecommunications operations of TELUS outside its traditional ILEC operating territories, where TELUS competes with the incumbent telephone company (e.g. Ontario and most of Quebec).
Internet of Things (IoT)
A network of uniquely identifiable end points (or things) that interact without human intervention, most commonly over a wireless network. These systems collect, analyze and act on data in real time and can be deployed to enable the creation of smart connected businesses, homes, vehicles and cities.
Internet protocol (IP)
A packet-based protocol for sending and receiving data across networks.
IP-based network
A network designed using IP and QoS (quality of service) technology to reliably and efficiently support all types of customer traffic, including voice, data and video. In an IP-based network, a variety of IP devices and advanced applications can communicate over a single common network.
IP TV (internet protocol television)
 A television service (offered as Optik TV at TELUS) that uses a two-way digital broadcast signal sent through a network by way of a streamed broadband connection to a dedicated set-top box.
LTE (long-term evolution)
The leading global 4G wireless technology standard. LTE advanced (LTE-A) and LTE advanced pro offer higher speeds and greater capacity, bringing networks closer to 5G. LTE is capable of delivering manufacturer-rated wireless data download speeds of up to 150 Mbps (typical speeds of 12 to 45 Mbps) and LTE-A can offer speeds nearly 10 times higher (in select regions).
Machine-to-machine (M2M)
Technologies and networked devices that are able to exchange data and interact without human intervention.
Mobile virtual network operator (MVNO)
A mobile service operator that leases access to a wireless network from other carriers in order to resell services to end customers.
Open Radio Access Network (OpenRan)
Framework that uses open standards and interfaces to enable interoperability between different vendors' equipment in mobile networks, making the network more flexible, cost-effective, and scalable.
Over-the-top (OTT)
Content, services and applications in a video format, for which delivery occurs through a medium other than the established video delivery infrastructure.
Passive optical network (PON)
A fibre-based transmission technology that enables broadband network access. GPON (gigabit-capable passive optical network) can deliver data download speeds of up to 2.4 Gbps and upload speeds of up to 1.2 Gbps; XGS-PON (10-gigabit-capable symmetrical passive optical network) can deliver data download and upload speeds of up to 2.5 Gbps.
Private wireless network
A stand-alone network that is dedicated to the use of a single enterprise or organization and delivers enhanced reliability, coverage and security required to support new levels of quality, efficiency and productivity in the connected world.
Small cell
Low-powered radio access nodes that can operate in licensed and unlicensed spectrum within a limited range to provide additional densification and capacity to a macro wireless network.
Spectrum
The range of electromagnetic radio frequencies used in the transmission of voice, data and video. The capacity of a wireless network is in part a function of the amount of spectrum licensed and utilized by the carrier.
Third-party internet access (TPIA)
Access to the services of an established internet service provider (ISP), typically obtained at wholesale rates by an independent ISP for the purpose of reselling access to customers under its own brand.
Virtual power purchase agreement (VPPA)
A long-term renewable energy contract that does not involve the physical delivery of energy from the generator to the customer. The customer receives renewable energy certificates that can be used to offset greenhouse gas emissions.
Voice over internet protocol (VoIP)
The transmission of voice signals over the internet or IP network.
