captive portal


A Web page used on public-access networks that require a user to view and interact with before being granted access to the public network. Captive portals are widely used businesses which offer free Wi-Fi hotspots to Internet users. Usually the captive portal will require users to read and accept the business’ acceptable use policy (AUP).

See “Public Wi-Fi Hotspots” in the Quick Reference section of

Read Also:

  • capture card

    See video capture.

  • carbon footprint

    The amount of carbon dioxide emissions created by a person or industry. A 2007 study by Gartner indicated that two percent of worldwide carbon emissions comes from the global information and communications technology (ICT) industry.

  • carbon neutral

    Carbon neutral, also called carbon neutrality is a term used to describe the action of organizations, businesses and individuals taking action to remove as much carbon dioxide from the atmosphere as each put in to it. The overall goal of carbon neutrality is to achieve a zero carbon footprint. For example, a business may plant […]

  • card

    (1) Same as expansion board. (2) In hypertext systems such as HyperCard, a card is a single page of information.

  • caret

    A wedge-shaped symbol (^) generally found above the 6 on computer keyboards. In older technical documentation, the caret is often used to indicate the Control key. For example, “^C” would mean press the “C” key while holding down the Control key. Most modern documentation, however, would specify this key sequence as Ctrl +C. The caret […]


Disclaimer: captive portal definition / meaning should not be considered complete, up to date, and is not intended to be used in place of a visit, consultation, or advice of a legal, medical, or any other professional. All content on this website is for informational purposes only.