Computer Jargon Explained

A security method that asks for two forms of proof before allowing access to an account. This is usually your password plus a code from your phone, an authenticator app, or another trusted device.

A method of creating physical objects layer by layer from a digital design. Home and business 3D printers commonly use plastic filament or resin.

A device that provides Wi-Fi access to a wired network. Businesses and larger homes often use several access points to improve wireless coverage.

Features that make computers, websites and apps easier to use for people with different needs. Examples include screen readers, captions, larger text, high contrast and keyboard navigation.

A personal profile used to sign in to a computer, website or online service. An account can store settings, files, subscriptions and security information.

Software that displays unwanted advertising, often inside a browser or other program. Some adware also tracks browsing behaviour or changes browser settings.

Technology that allows software to perform tasks that normally require human-like reasoning, such as understanding language, recognising images, generating content or making predictions.

A setting that turns off wireless connections such as mobile data, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Individual wireless features can usually be switched back on while Airplane Mode remains enabled.

Security software designed to detect, block and remove malicious software. Modern antivirus products can also provide web protection, ransomware protection and other security features.

Short for application. An app is a program designed to perform a particular task, such as email, web browsing, photo editing or online banking.

A file sent with an email or message. Attachments can include documents, photographs, spreadsheets and compressed files.

The process of proving that you are allowed to access an account, device or service. Passwords, passkeys, fingerprints and verification codes are common authentication methods.

A separate copy of important files or system data that can be used if the original is lost, damaged, deleted or encrypted by malware.

The amount of data that a network or internet connection can transfer over a period of time. Higher bandwidth generally allows more data to be transferred at once.

A measure of how much charge a rechargeable battery can still hold compared with when it was new. Battery capacity normally reduces as the battery ages.

Basic Input/Output System. Firmware on a computer motherboard that starts the hardware and prepares the computer to load its operating system. Modern computers often use UEFI instead.

The smallest basic unit of digital information. A bit has one of two values: 0 or 1.

Microsoft's drive-encryption technology for Windows. It protects data by encrypting a drive so that its contents cannot easily be read without the correct recovery method or key.

A short-range wireless technology used to connect devices such as keyboards, mice, headphones, speakers, phones and printers.

The process of starting a computer and loading its operating system. A restart is sometimes called a reboot.

An automated software program that performs tasks without continuous human control. Bots can be legitimate, such as search-engine crawlers, or malicious, such as spam bots.

Software used to view and interact with websites. Common browsers include Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox and Safari.

Temporary copies of website files stored by a browser to make pages load faster. Clearing the cache can sometimes fix websites that display old or broken content.

A unit of digital information normally made up of eight bits. File sizes and storage capacities are commonly measured in bytes, kilobytes, megabytes, gigabytes and terabytes.

An internet connection delivered through a cable network. Performance depends on the provider, package and local network conditions.

Temporary stored data that helps software, websites or hardware work more quickly. A cache can sometimes need clearing when old data causes problems.

A challenge used by websites to distinguish people from automated bots. It may ask you to select images, type characters or complete a simple verification step.

A common type of Ethernet network cable capable of Gigabit Ethernet over normal household and office distances.

A higher specification Ethernet cable than Cat5e. It is commonly used for Gigabit networking and can support faster speeds over suitable distances and equipment.

A group of components on a motherboard that helps manage communication between the processor, memory, storage and connected devices.

A temporary area used by the operating system to hold information that has been copied or cut, ready to be pasted somewhere else.

A backup stored on remote servers reached over the internet. It can protect important files if a computer is lost, stolen or damaged.

Using computing services over the internet rather than relying only on hardware and software installed on your own device. Examples include online storage and web-based applications.

Online storage that allows files to be saved on remote servers and accessed from compatible devices. Examples include OneDrive, Google Drive and Dropbox.

A small battery on a motherboard that helps retain certain firmware settings and keeps the computer's real-time clock running when the machine is switched off.

A Windows text-based tool used to run commands and perform administrative or troubleshooting tasks.

Reducing the size of data or files so they use less storage space or can be transferred more quickly. ZIP files are a common example.

A type of malicious software designed to spread by attaching itself to files or programs. The term is often used more generally to describe malware.

A small piece of data a website stores in your browser. Cookies can remember sign-ins, preferences, shopping baskets and other information.

Microsoft's name for a range of AI-powered assistants and features used across Windows, Microsoft 365 and other Microsoft products.

Central Processing Unit. The main processor in a computer that carries out instructions and calculations required by the operating system and applications.

The practices and technologies used to protect computers, networks, accounts and data from unauthorised access, attack, loss or damage.

Information stored or processed by a computer. Data can include documents, photographs, emails, databases, settings and application files.

An incident in which confidential or personal information is accessed, disclosed or stolen without permission.

A generation of computer memory, or RAM, widely used in desktop and laptop computers. It is not physically interchangeable with DDR5.

A newer generation of computer memory than DDR4, offering higher potential speeds and other improvements. A motherboard must specifically support DDR5.

The main Windows workspace displayed after signing in. The term can also mean a desktop computer designed to be used at a desk.

Software that allows Windows or another operating system to communicate correctly with hardware such as graphics cards, printers, Wi-Fi adapters and sound devices.

Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol. A network service that automatically gives devices IP addresses and other network settings.

A digital connection commonly used between computers and monitors. It can carry high-resolution video and audio and is popular on PCs and professional displays.

Domain Name System. It translates easy-to-read internet names, such as website addresses, into the numerical IP addresses computers use to find services online.

The human-readable address used to identify a website or internet service, such as illit.co.uk.

Transferring data from another computer, server or internet service to your device.

Another name for a device driver: software that enables an operating system to work correctly with a particular piece of hardware.

Wi-Fi equipment capable of using both the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz wireless bands. Each band has different range, speed and interference characteristics.

A process that scrambles readable data so that it can only be accessed with the correct key, password or other authorised method.

A wired networking technology commonly used to connect computers, routers, switches, printers and other devices using network cables.

A file containing instructions that a computer can run as a program. Windows executable files commonly use the .exe extension.

A storage device connected outside the computer, normally by USB or another external connection. It can be used for backups, extra storage or transferring files.

Returning a device or software installation to its original or near-original state. Depending on the reset option, personal files and installed programs may be removed.

A named collection of digital information stored on a computer or other device, such as a document, photograph, program or video.

The letters after the final dot in a filename that indicate the file type, such as .jpg, .pdf, .docx or .exe.

Security software or hardware that controls network traffic entering or leaving a computer or network according to a set of rules.

Software stored inside a hardware device that controls its basic operation. Routers, SSDs, motherboards and many other devices use firmware.

A container used to organise files and other folders on a computer or storage device.

Preparing a storage device with a file system so it can store files. Formatting can erase existing data, depending on how it is performed.

The number of individual images displayed each second in video or games. A higher frame rate can make motion appear smoother when the hardware and display support it.

Software that is available to use without paying a purchase price. Freeware can still have licence restrictions and is not necessarily open-source.

A broadband connection where fibre-optic cable runs all the way to the premises. It is also called FTTP and can provide very high upload and download speeds.

Graphics Processing Unit. A processor designed to handle graphics and highly parallel calculations. It may be built into the CPU or provided by a separate graphics card.

A dedicated expansion card containing a GPU and its own video memory. It is commonly used for gaming, design, video work and other graphics-intensive tasks.

A general term for a computer storage drive. It often means a mechanical HDD, although people sometimes use the term for storage drives more broadly.

The physical parts of a computer or technology system, such as the motherboard, processor, screen, keyboard, storage drive and memory.

Hard Disk Drive. A storage device that uses spinning magnetic disks. HDDs generally offer large capacities at lower cost but are slower and more vulnerable to physical shock than SSDs.

High-Definition Multimedia Interface. A common digital cable and connector used to carry video and audio between devices such as computers, monitors and televisions.

A measurement of frequency meaning cycles per second. On monitors it is commonly used for refresh rate, such as 60 Hz, 120 Hz or 144 Hz.

The main starting screen on a phone, tablet or other device where apps, shortcuts and widgets are displayed.

A feature or device that shares an internet connection over Wi-Fi. A smartphone can often act as a mobile hotspot for a laptop or tablet.

HyperText Markup Language. The standard markup language used to structure the content of web pages.

HyperText Transfer Protocol. A set of rules used for transferring web content between browsers and servers.

The secure version of HTTP. It encrypts data exchanged between your browser and a website when the connection is configured correctly.

A numerical address used to identify a device or service on a network. Devices can have private local IP addresses and public internet-facing addresses.

Internet Service Provider. A company that supplies your home or business internet connection.

Unwanted or low-value email, often advertising. Email providers usually try to place suspected junk messages in a spam or junk folder.

A key or combination of keys that performs an action without using menus or a mouse, such as Ctrl+C to copy and Ctrl+V to paste.

Local Area Network. A network connecting devices within a limited area such as a home, office or shop.

A portable computer with a built-in screen, keyboard, touchpad and battery.

The delay between sending data and receiving a response. Lower latency is especially important for video calls, online gaming and remote-control applications.

A family of open-source operating systems used on computers, servers and many other devices.

A Windows user account that exists on a particular computer rather than being tied directly to a Microsoft account.

The process of accessing a computer, website or service using an authorised account.

A broad term for malicious software, including viruses, ransomware, spyware, worms and other programs designed to cause harm, steal information or gain unauthorised access.

Megabits per second. A common measurement of network or internet connection speed. It is different from megabytes per second, which is often used for file transfer rates.

In everyday computer terminology, memory usually means RAM: fast temporary storage used by the computer while programs and data are in use.

A Wi-Fi system using multiple connected units to provide broader wireless coverage across a building while operating as one network.

Microsoft's subscription service providing applications and cloud services such as Word, Excel, Outlook, Teams and OneDrive, depending on the chosen plan.

An online Microsoft identity used with services such as Windows, Microsoft 365, OneDrive, Xbox and the Microsoft Store.

The main circuit board inside a computer. It connects the processor, memory, storage, expansion cards and other internal components.

Network Attached Storage. A dedicated storage device connected to a network so files and backups can be accessed by multiple authorised devices.

A group of connected devices that can communicate and share resources. Networks can be wired, wireless, local or internet-based.

Hardware that allows a computer or device to connect to a network, such as an Ethernet adapter or Wi-Fi adapter.

Non-Volatile Memory Express. A high-speed protocol commonly used by modern SSDs connected through PCI Express, often in the compact M.2 format.

Microsoft's cloud storage and file-syncing service. It can store files online and synchronise selected folders between devices.

The core software that manages a computer's hardware and provides the environment in which applications run. Examples include Windows, macOS and Linux.

A modern sign-in method designed to replace or reduce reliance on passwords. Passkeys use cryptographic credentials and are normally unlocked using a trusted device, PIN or biometric check.

A secret sequence of characters used to help protect an account or device. Strong passwords should be difficult to guess and should not be reused across important accounts.

A software update intended to fix bugs, improve security or make other targeted changes.

A high-speed connection standard used inside computers for devices such as graphics cards, NVMe SSDs and expansion cards.

Portable Document Format. A widely used file format designed to preserve a document's appearance across different devices and operating systems.

A scam that tries to trick someone into revealing passwords, financial details or other sensitive information, often through fake emails, messages or websites.

A tiny individual point of colour in a digital image or display. Screen resolutions are described by the number of pixels across and down the display.

Technology that allows compatible hardware to be detected and configured automatically when it is connected to a computer.

A window or message that appears over existing content. Pop-ups can be legitimate, but unwanted or deceptive pop-ups can also be associated with advertising or scams.

Power-On Self-Test. A series of checks a computer performs when it first starts to make sure essential hardware is present and functioning well enough to continue booting.

The component in a desktop computer that converts mains electricity into the voltages required by the computer's internal hardware.

Software that allows a computer to communicate correctly with a particular printer and use its available features.

Another common name for the CPU, the main component responsible for executing instructions and calculations.

A square two-dimensional barcode that can store information such as a website address, contact details or payment information and can be read by compatible cameras and apps.

Random Access Memory. Fast temporary memory used to hold programs and data while a computer is running. More RAM can help when using many applications or large files at once.

Malicious software that encrypts files or otherwise blocks access to data and demands payment. Good backups and security practices are important protection against ransomware.

A special code used to regain access to encrypted data or an account when the normal sign-in method is unavailable. BitLocker recovery keys are a common example.

The Windows location where deleted files are normally held temporarily before permanent deletion, allowing them to be restored if needed.

The number of times a display updates its image each second, measured in hertz. Higher refresh rates can make movement appear smoother.

Technology that allows an authorised person to control or use another computer over a network or the internet.

The number of pixels used to display an image or screen. For example, Full HD is commonly 1920 by 1080 pixels.

A Windows snapshot of certain system files and settings that can sometimes be used to undo system changes without affecting personal documents.

A network device that directs traffic between devices and networks. Home broadband routers commonly provide internet sharing, Ethernet ports, Wi-Fi and basic firewall functions.

A diagnostic startup mode that loads Windows with a reduced set of drivers and services. It can help troubleshoot problems caused by software or drivers.

Serial ATA. A connection standard commonly used for internal HDDs, 2.5-inch SSDs and optical drives.

A dishonest attempt to obtain money, account access or personal information by deception. Technology scams commonly use fake support calls, emails, messages and websites.

The number of pixels a screen uses horizontally and vertically, such as 1920 × 1080. Higher resolutions can provide more detail when the display size and scaling are appropriate.

A digital image capturing what is currently displayed on a computer, phone or tablet screen.

An online service that helps people find web pages and other internet content. Examples include Google, Bing and DuckDuckGo.

A computer or software system that provides data or services to other devices, known as clients, over a network.

A link that provides quick access to a file, folder, program, website or command without duplicating the original item.

A low-power state that keeps the current computer session in memory so work can normally resume quickly.

A mobile phone that also runs apps and provides internet, camera, messaging, navigation and many other computing features.

Programs and digital instructions that run on a computer or other device. Examples include Windows, browsers, office applications and games.

Unwanted bulk messages, most commonly email. Spam can be merely annoying or can contain scams, phishing attempts and malicious links.

Malicious or unwanted software designed to monitor activity or collect information without proper permission.

Solid State Drive. A storage device that uses flash memory and has no moving parts. SSDs are normally much faster and more resistant to physical shock than mechanical HDDs.

Playing audio or video while it is delivered over a network rather than waiting for the entire file to download first.

A Windows recovery feature that can return certain system files, drivers, registry settings and installed programs to an earlier restore point.

A Windows tool used to view running programs, background processes, performance information and startup applications.

A unit of digital storage. Drive manufacturers commonly use one terabyte to mean approximately one trillion bytes.

Files created for short-term use by Windows, applications or websites. Some temporary files can be removed safely using built-in cleanup tools, while others may be in active use.

A high-speed connection technology capable of carrying data, video and, on supported devices, power through compatible ports and cables.

Trusted Platform Module. A security component used to protect cryptographic keys and support features such as device encryption and Windows security.

Malware that disguises itself as legitimate or desirable software in order to persuade a user to install or run it.

See 2FA. It adds a second verification step to an account sign-in so that a stolen password alone is less likely to be enough for an attacker.

Unified Extensible Firmware Interface. Modern firmware used to initialise computer hardware and start the operating system. It has largely replaced the traditional BIOS.

A newer version or set of changes supplied for software, firmware or an operating system. Updates can provide security fixes, bug fixes and new features.

Transferring data from your device to another computer, server or online service.

Uninterruptible Power Supply. A battery-backed device that can keep connected equipment running briefly during a power cut and can provide protection against some power problems.

Uniform Resource Locator. The address used to locate a page or resource on the web.

Universal Serial Bus. A widely used standard for connecting devices and transferring data and power.

A small reversible USB connector used by many modern laptops, phones and accessories. Depending on the device, it can carry data, power, video and other signals.

The name or identifier associated with an account. It is often used together with a password or other authentication method.

A specific type of malware that can infect files or programs and spread between systems. In everyday use, people often use the word virus to mean malware generally.

Virtual Private Network. Technology that creates an encrypted connection between your device and a VPN service or private network. It can protect traffic on untrusted networks and provide remote access, but it does not make a device automatically safe from every online threat.

Software used to access websites and web applications. Examples include Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, Firefox and Safari.

A camera designed for use with a computer or built into a laptop, commonly used for video calls, meetings and recording.

A collection of related web pages and resources available through a domain name or web address.

A wireless networking technology used to connect computers, phones and other devices to a local network and usually the internet.

A generation of Wi-Fi based on the 802.11ax standard. It can improve capacity, efficiency and performance when both the network equipment and connected devices support it.

Microsoft's current desktop operating system for compatible PCs. It includes hardware and security requirements that are different from some earlier versions of Windows.

A commonly used name for Microsoft's built-in Windows security protection. In current Windows versions, antivirus protection forms part of the Windows Security experience.

The Windows service used to download and install security updates, bug fixes, drivers and feature updates from Microsoft.

Hardware that allows a computer or other device to connect to a Wi-Fi network.

A type of malware designed to copy and spread itself, often across networks, without needing to attach itself to another program.

A compressed archive that can contain one or more files and folders. ZIP files are commonly used to reduce file size or package several items together for transfer.