uplinked

Uplinked is the past participle and adjectival form of uplink, used to describe a connection or data transmission that moves from a local position to a higher-level network. The term appears in telecommunications, networking, and space communications to indicate that a device, link, or data flow has been connected to or transmitted toward an upstream or broader network segment.

In satellite communications, an uplink refers to the radio link from a ground station to a satellite. An uplinked signal has been transmitted from Earth toward the satellite, typically on a specific frequency band distinct from the satellite’s downlink path. Uplink terminology is common in mission control, ground stations, and orbital link documentation.

In local networks and data centers, devices such as switches and routers may feature uplink ports to connect to upstream equipment. A device described as uplinked generally means its uplink port is connected to the core network, a service provider, or another backbone device, enabling access to the Internet or other distant networks. This usage spans Ethernet, fiber, and wireless backhaul configurations.

Etymology and usage notes: uplink originated in radio and space communications to denote transmission toward a higher network level. Uplinked is typically found in technical documentation, field reports, and engineering discussions; in more general contexts, speakers may substitute phrases like “connected to the upstream network” or “transmitting to the central system.”

See also: uplink, downlink, backhaul, network topology, satellite ground station.