A cyberterminal is a special type of computer used to access the Matrix, the global virtual reality network of the Sixth World.
Two main components separate a cyberterminal from other computers:
- ASIST interface, allowing full-sensory perception of the cyberspace and direct neural interaction with the terminal
- a program-suite called persona, consisting of Bod and Sensor, that constitutes the user's online avatar (also called icon)
A cyberterminal with certain illegal modifications (often used by Shadowrunners or corporate/government cyberspace operatives known as deckers) is commonly called cyberdeck.