Popular computer terms and their meanings
Do you ever have trouble understanding computer terms and tech talk? If your answer is ‘yes’ then this blog may be just for you.
Computers and the internet keep us connected to family and friends, allow us to access online resources, such as recipes and hobby information, and are a great source of entertainment. However, for those who aren’t computer savvy this can be very daunting.
Here is a list of common computer terms and their meanings to help you with the computer tech in your life!
COMPUTER TERM GLOSSARY
Address box
A narrow, rectangular box at the top of the browser window where you can type in a website address. Typing in the website address in the address box and hitting enter on the keyboard will take you to the website.
Authentication
How companies verify a person’s identity or device before allowing them to access their systems. This online security strategy can protect an organisation’s sensitive information from unofficial access. The main authentication methods used are passwords and other confidential login details (such as one-off codes that are emailed or texted to you), and facial or fingerprint scanning.
Backup
A copy of something. Having a backup of your computer hard drive means having a copy of all files and folders on your computer. It means having an extra copy of all your work, all photos and videos, all projects and emails, etc. Backups can be done on a flash drive (more commonly known as a USB drive), an SSD (Solid State Drive) or an external hard drive, which is a portable hard drive that can be plugged into your computer via a USB port.
Bandwidth
The term bandwidth refers to the maximum rate at which a computer can transfer data through a network within a specific time. Usually measured in megabits (mb) per second, and as it increases, it becomes kilobytes (kb).
Bookmark
The term used for saving a web page so that you can go back later and view it again without having to search for it. To bookmark a web page, simply left click on the star in the right-hand corner of your address bar and when the dialog box opens, click Done.
Browser
Refers to the software you use to search the internet. Most people use Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge to search the internet, although Firefox, Internet Explorer and Safari are also well-known web browsers. The term for searching the internet on one of these browsers is called browsing. Your web browser is basically your gateway to the internet.
Button
Small box that looks like it’s being depressed when you select it. Buttons can turn on many types of functions on the internet or take you to new website pages.
Copy and paste
A process that allows users to duplicate text, images, or other data from one location to another. It’s a useful tool for saving time and improving productivity.
Cursor
A small image on the screen indicating where you are pointing. The mouse controls the movements of the cursor. The cursor can appear in different forms, including an arrow or a pointing hand.
Desktop
The information that appears on the computer soon after the computer is turned on. The desktop contains several icons, or images that you can click on to start programs.
Downloading
The process of copying a file from an internet website to the hard drive of a personal computer.
Go online
To go on the internet.
Hardware
The physical parts of a computer system.
Home page
The first thing you see when you come to a website, or the opening page of a website. It provides information about the site and directs you to other pages on the site.
Link (or hyperlink)
A highlighted or underlined feature on a web page that, when clicked, will take you to another web page. A link most often appears as underlined words or an image. One way to tell if something is a link or not: Whenever your cursor turns into a pointing hand, the image or word you are pointing to is a link.
Malware
Short for “malicious software”, it refers to any software that hackers design to interfere with or cause damage to a computer. These software programs gain access to steal an individual’s personal information, encrypt files, or damage important data. There are many types of malware and each has specific ways of infiltrating a computer to cause harm. The following are common types of malware:
- Worm: This self-replicating program affects a computer by spreading malicious codes to consume bandwidth and delete files.
- Adware: It displays advertisements on an individual’s screen to collect personal information.
- Keyloggers: Hackers often develop this software to track the keystrokes on a keyboard and record them on a log.
- Ransomware: This software encrypts a computer’s files and blocks access to them until the user pays a ransom.
- Trojan: Hackers use the trojan to gain access to a computer by disguising it as a legitimate application or program.
- Spyware: It generally invades a computer to steal personal information, such as web browsing data, card details, banking information, and account passwords.
- Rootkits: This program usually hides in a computer, enabling a hacker to control it remotely.
Read more about malware and protecting yourself online here – Internet Safety 101.
Menu
A list of options, or topics, on a website that users can choose from.
Modem
A piece of hardware that lets computers transmit information along telephone lines. It converts signals to a form compatible with another device. The main purpose is to provide internet access.
Phishing
Phishing is email fraud where the perpetrator sends out legitimate looking emails that appear to come from trustworthy web sites in an attempt to gather personal and financial information from the recipient.
Podcast
A pre-recorded audio program that is made available to download (manually or automatically) so people can listen to them on personal computers or mobile devices.
Reboot
To restart your computer. This is usually done by going to the Start Menu and selecting either Shut Down or Restart.
Software
The instructions that tell the computer and computer networks what to do. Software is installed inside the computer.
Spam
An inappropriate attempt to use email as if it was a broadcast medium by sending the same message to many people who didn’t ask for it.
Taskbar
The taskbar is generally located at the bottom of your computer screen, and it is where your Start button and icons for applications that you usually use will appear. On the bottom right-hand corner of your taskbar, you will also see the status of your battery, your volume controls and your date and time controls.
The cloud
The cloud refers to a remote storage facility available anywhere on the internet. When storing files or data in the cloud, a user can access that information on any device. Cloud storage differs from traditional storage methods, which save data on a single physical device.
Uploading
Moving or copying a file from a local computer to a remote network or storage system, usually over the internet.
URL (Uniform Resource Locator)
The term used for the address that is given to a web page. All URL’s generally start with www (which stands for world wide web), followed by a (.) and then the address of the page. Lastly, the address will end with either a .com, .org or .net or some other letters which indicate what kind of business it is.
USB (Universal Serial Bus)
Refers to a connection port on your computer where you can plug in a cable, or it can also refer to a small external drive known as a USB drive or a flash drive. These are used to store files and things on, usually smaller than an external hard drive.
Wi-Fi
Wireless networking technology that uses radio waves to provide wireless high-speed internet access.
LEARNING RESOURCES
Be Connected website
A free online learning resource where you can improve your digital skills and knowledge with a range of mini courses. This Australian government initiative has many courses and articles available starting with the most basic. For example, you can learn how to scan a QR code, block a phone number on your iPhone or protect your privacy online. With articles, short videos, and even computer classes in a location near you, this is a great way to access resources and build your digital skills.
Internet terms for older adults
Click here for a thorough resource that includes images in explanations – An Internet Course for Older Adults.
Telstra Introduction to Computers – Basic Guide
For a basic guide on introduction to computers click here – Tech Savvy Seniors
Interested in similar articles? Why not check these out:
Sources:
An Internet Course for Older Adults.
