📘 Computer Glossary

A

1. Access Point – A device that allows wireless devices to connect to a wired network.

2. Active Directory – Microsoft’s directory service for managing users and resources on a network.

3. Read moreComputer Glossary – Page 2

   Adapter – A device that converts one type of connection to another.

4. Adware – Software that shows unwanted ads on your computer or browser.

5. Read moreBuild Your Own Computer

   Algorithm – A step-by-step process for solving a problem or performing a task.

6. Android – A mobile operating system developed by Google.

7. Antivirus – Software that detects and removes viruses or malware.

8. API (Application Programming Interface) – A set of rules for different programs to communicate.

9. App – A program designed for specific tasks, especially on mobile devices.

10. ASCII – A character encoding standard for representing text.

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B

11. Backup – A saved copy of files or data for recovery after loss.

12. Bandwidth – The maximum amount of data transferred over a network at once.

13. BIOS – Firmware that starts hardware before the operating system loads.

14. Bit – The smallest unit of digital data, a 0 or 1.

15. Blockchain – A decentralized digital ledger for recording transactions.

16. Bluetooth – Wireless technology for short-range device communication.

17. Booting – The process of starting up a computer system.

18. Bot – Automated software that performs tasks online.

19. Browser – A program for accessing websites (e.g., Chrome, Firefox).

20. Byte – A unit of digital data equal to 8 bits.

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C

21. Cache – Small, fast memory that stores frequently used data.

22. Captcha – A test to distinguish humans from bots online.

23. Cloud Computing – Delivering services (storage, software) over the internet.

24. Cluster – A group of computers working together as one system.

25. CMOS – A chip that stores BIOS settings on a motherboard.

26. Compression – Reducing file size for storage or transmission.

27. Cookie – A small file websites save on your device to remember preferences.

28. CPU (Central Processing Unit) – The “brain” of the computer that runs instructions.

29. Cryptography – Securing information by converting it into unreadable code.

30. Cybersecurity – Protecting systems and networks from digital attacks.

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D

31. Database – An Organized collection of information stored electronically.

32. Data Center – A facility that houses servers and IT infrastructure.

33. Data Mining – Analyzing large data sets to find patterns.

34. Debugging – Finding and fixing errors in software.

35. Default Gateway – The network device that routes traffic to the Internet.

36. Defragmentation – Reorganizing data on a disk for faster access.

37. DHCP – A protocol that automatically assigns IP addresses.

38. Digital Certificate – An electronic document for verifying identity online.

39. DNS (Domain Name System) – Converts website names into IP addresses.

40. Download – Copying data from the internet to your device.

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E

41. E-commerce – Buying and selling products online.

42. Email – Electronic mail for sending messages via the internet.

43. Encryption – Converting data into unreadable code for security.

44. Ethernet – Wired networking technology for local networks.

45. Extranet – A private network accessible to outsiders with permission.

46. Export – Saving data in a format usable by another program.

47. Executable File (.exe) – A file that runs a program when opened.

48. Extension – A file’s suffix (like .docx or .jpg) that shows its type.

49. Error 404 – A message when a webpage cannot be found.

50. Emulator – Software that mimics another system or device.

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F

51. Firewall – A system that blocks unauthorized access to networks.

52. Firmware – Software built into hardware devices.

53. Folder – A container for files on a computer.

54. Format – Preparing a disk or drive for use.

55. Fragmentation – Scattering of data across a disk, slowing performance.

56. FTP (File Transfer Protocol) – A standard way to transfer files online.

57. Function Key – A key (F1–F12) that performs special actions.

58. File Extension – The ending of a filename showing its type.

59. File System – The method a computer uses to store and organize data.

60. Flash Memory – Storage that retains data without power, used in USBs.

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G

61. Gateway – A device linking two different networks.

62. GHz (Gigahertz) – A measure of CPU clock speed.

63. Git – A version control system for tracking code changes.

64. GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) – Handles graphics and image processing.

65. GUI (Graphical User Interface) – A visual way to interact with a computer.

66. Gigabyte (GB) – A unit of data equal to about 1 billion bytes.

67. Google Drive – A cloud storage service by Google.

68. Green Computing – Eco-friendly use of computers and IT resources.

69. Grid Computing – Multiple computers working together on large tasks.

70. Group Policy – Windows tool to manage settings for users.

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H

71. Hacker – A person who gains unauthorized access to systems.

72. Hard Drive (HDD) – A storage device that keeps data permanently.

73. Hashing – Converting data into a fixed-length code.

74. HDMI – A standard cable for transferring video and audio.

75. Hosting – Providing storage and access for websites.

76. Hotspot – A wireless access point, often using mobile data.

77. HTML – The coding language for building web pages.

78. HTTP/HTTPS – Protocols for transferring data on the web, HTTPS is secure.

79. Hub – A basic device connecting multiple computers in a network.

80. Hybrid Cloud – A mix of private and public cloud services.

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