UPnP

Stands for "Universal Plug and Play." Plug and Play describes devices that work with a computer system as soon as they are connected. UPnP is an extension of this idea that expands the range of Plug and Play devices to networking equipment. Universal Plug and Play uses network protocols to allow a wide range of devices to be interconnected and work seamlessly with each other.

UPnP devices can be connected via wired (i.e. Ethernet and Firewire) or wireless (i.e. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth) connections. As long as a product supports UPnP, it can communicate with other UPnP devices within a network. The connections are typically created using the DHCP networking protocol, which assigns each connected device a unique IP address.

While UPnP is helpful for setting up networks, it also can be used to set up compatible audio and video (AV) devices. UPnP AV is a group of standards based on UPnP that allows audio and video components to be connected via network connections. This enables media files and streaming data to be sent between devices. For example, a movie stored on a hard drive in a bedroom could be played back on the TV screen in the living room. The central controller of a UPnP AV network is called a MediaServer and can be run from a Macintosh, Windows, or Linux computer or from a hardware device specifically designed to manage the network.

Since most UPnP devices support zero-configuration setup (like ordinary Plug and Play devices), it is simple to add devices to a network and use them immediately. While the networking terms associated with UPnP can be a bit intimidating, setting up a UPnP network is meant to be hassle-free ? and that is a term we can all appreciate.

Updated in 2006 by Per C.

Definitions by TechTerms.com

The definition of UPnP on this page is an original TechTerms.com definition. If you would like to reference this page or cite this definition, you can use the green citation links above.

The goal of TechTerms.com is to explain computer terminology in a way that is easy to understand. We strive for simplicity and accuracy with every definition we publish. If you have feedback about the UPnP definition or would like to suggest a new technical term, please contact us.

Want to learn more tech terms? Subscribe to the daily or weekly newsletter and get featured terms and quizzes delivered to your inbox.

Sign up for the free TechTerms Newsletter

How often would you like to receive an email?

You can unsubscribe or change your frequency setting at any time using the links available in each email.

Questions? Please contact us.