📘 Computer Glossary
A
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Access Point – A device that allows wireless devices to connect to a wired network.
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Active Directory – Microsoft’s directory service for managing users and resources on a network.
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Adapter – A device that converts one type of connection to another.
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Adware – Software that shows unwanted ads on your computer or browser.
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Algorithm – A step-by-step process for solving a problem or performing a task.
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Android – A mobile operating system developed by Google.
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Antivirus – Software that detects and removes viruses or malware.
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API (Application Programming Interface) – A set of rules for different programs to communicate.
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App – A program designed for specific tasks, especially on mobile devices.
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ASCII – A character encoding standard for representing text.
B
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Backup – A saved copy of files or data for recovery after loss.
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Bandwidth – The maximum amount of data transferred over a network at once.
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BIOS – Firmware that starts hardware before the operating system loads.
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Bit – The smallest unit of digital data, a 0 or 1.
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Blockchain – A decentralized digital ledger for recording transactions.
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Bluetooth – Wireless technology for short-range device communication.
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Booting – The process of starting up a computer system.
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Bot – Automated software that performs tasks online.
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Browser – A program for accessing websites (e.g., Chrome, Firefox).
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Byte – A unit of digital data equal to 8 bits.
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Cache – Small, fast memory that stores frequently used data.
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Captcha – A test to distinguish humans from bots online.
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Cloud Computing – Delivering services (storage, software) over the internet.
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Cluster – A group of computers working together as one system.
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CMOS – A chip that stores BIOS settings on a motherboard.
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Compression – Reducing file size for storage or transmission.
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Cookie – A small file websites save on your device to remember preferences.
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CPU (Central Processing Unit) – The “brain” of the computer that runs instructions.
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Cryptography – Securing information by converting it into unreadable code.
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Cybersecurity – Protecting systems and networks from digital attacks.
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Database – An Organized collection of information stored electronically.
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Data Center – A facility that houses servers and IT infrastructure.
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Data Mining – Analyzing large data sets to find patterns.
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Debugging – Finding and fixing errors in software.
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Default Gateway – The network device that routes traffic to the Internet.
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Defragmentation – Reorganizing data on a disk for faster access.
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DHCP – A protocol that automatically assigns IP addresses.
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Digital Certificate – An electronic document for verifying identity online.
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DNS (Domain Name System) – Converts website names into IP addresses.
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Download – Copying data from the internet to your device.
E
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E-commerce – Buying and selling products online.
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Email – Electronic mail for sending messages via the internet.
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Encryption – Converting data into unreadable code for security.
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Ethernet – Wired networking technology for local networks.
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Extranet – A private network accessible to outsiders with permission.
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Export – Saving data in a format usable by another program.
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Executable File (.exe) – A file that runs a program when opened.
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Extension – A file’s suffix (like .docx or .jpg) that shows its type.
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Error 404 – A message when a webpage cannot be found.
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Emulator – Software that mimics another system or device.
F
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Firewall – A system that blocks unauthorized access to networks.
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Firmware – Software built into hardware devices.
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Folder – A container for files on a computer.
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Format – Preparing a disk or drive for use.
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Fragmentation – Scattering of data across a disk, slowing performance.
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FTP (File Transfer Protocol) – A standard way to transfer files online.
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Function Key – A key (F1–F12) that performs special actions.
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File Extension – The ending of a filename showing its type.
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File System – The method a computer uses to store and organize data.
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Flash Memory – Storage that retains data without power, used in USBs.
G
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Gateway – A device linking two different networks.
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GHz (Gigahertz) – A measure of CPU clock speed.
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Git – A version control system for tracking code changes.
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GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) – Handles graphics and image processing.
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GUI (Graphical User Interface) – A visual way to interact with a computer.
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Gigabyte (GB) – A unit of data equal to about 1 billion bytes.
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Google Drive – A cloud storage service by Google.
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Green Computing – Eco-friendly use of computers and IT resources.
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Grid Computing – Multiple computers working together on large tasks.
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Group Policy – Windows tool to manage settings for users.
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Hacker – A person who gains unauthorized access to systems.
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Hard Drive (HDD) – A storage device that keeps data permanently.
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Hashing – Converting data into a fixed-length code.
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HDMI – A standard cable for transferring video and audio.
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Hosting – Providing storage and access for websites.
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Hotspot – A wireless access point, often using mobile data.
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HTML – The coding language for building web pages.
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HTTP/HTTPS – Protocols for transferring data on the web, HTTPS is secure.
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Hub – A basic device connecting multiple computers in a network.
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Hybrid Cloud – A mix of private and public cloud services.
