tns

TNS is an acronym used by several organizations and technologies. Without context, it can refer to a network software subsystem, a market research company, or other entities. The meaning is typically inferred from the domain in which it appears.

In computing, TNS stands for Transparent Network Substrate, the Oracle networking technology that underpins Oracle Net (formerly Net8). It provides the connectivity framework between clients and Oracle Database servers. Key elements include the tnsnames.ora file, which maps net service names to connect descriptors, and the listener service (LISTENER) that accepts incoming connections. Applications use a net service name or a connect string to reach the database, with various naming methods such as tnsnames.ora, LDAP, and easy connect.

In market research, TNS refers to Taylor Nelson Sofres, a multinational research company. It was formed by the merger of Taylor Nelson and Sofres and became part of Kantar, offering services such as consumer research, brand tracking, and media measurement. The TNS brand is largely used in historical references or legacy materials, with current operations branded under Kantar.

Other uses exist but are less common and typically domain-specific; if the intended meaning is unclear, consult the surrounding text or documentation for clarification.