Plain-language definitions

Computer terms glossary

Short definitions for words used throughout the guides. A term may have a more specialized meaning in technical work.

Account: A named sign-in identity that stores settings, permissions, or information for a service or device.
Administrator: A user account allowed to make system-wide changes, install some software, and manage other users.
Application (app): Software designed for a particular task, such as browsing, writing, editing photos, or joining meetings.
Attachment: A file sent with an email or message.
Backup: A separate recoverable copy of data kept so information can be restored after loss, damage, or unwanted change.
Browser: An application used to visit websites, such as Chrome, Edge, Firefox, or Safari.
Cache: Temporary stored data that helps an application or website load faster.
Cloud storage: File storage on a provider's remote systems, reached through an account and internet connection.
Cookie: A small piece of data a website stores in a browser for functions such as sessions, preferences, measurement, or advertising.
Copy: Create another instance of selected text or a file while leaving the original in place.
CPU: Central processing unit; the component that carries out program instructions.
Cursor: The visible marker showing where text will be entered or which point on the screen is active.
Desktop: The main workspace shown after sign-in; also a type of computer intended for use at a desk.
Download: Transfer data from an online service or another system to the current device.
Driver: Software that helps the operating system communicate with a hardware device.
Encryption: A method of transforming information so it cannot be read without the correct key or access.
Ethernet: A common wired networking technology and cable connection.
Extension: The ending of a filename, such as .pdf or .jpg, that helps identify its format.
File: A stored item containing information, such as a document, photo, spreadsheet, or video.
File manager: The operating-system tool used to browse and organize files; File Explorer on Windows and Finder on macOS.
Folder: A container used to organize files and other folders.
Hardware: The physical parts of a computer and connected equipment.
Home page: The main starting page of a website, or a page configured to open when a browser starts.
Icon: A small visual symbol representing a program, file, folder, command, or status.
Internet: The global network of connected networks that carries web, email, video, and other services.
Link: Clickable text or an image that opens another location, file, page, or action.
Malware: Software intended to steal, spy, disrupt, damage, or provide unauthorized access.
Memory (RAM): Temporary working space used by active programs; its contents do not remain after shutdown.
Modem: Equipment that connects a home or organization to an internet service.
Multifactor authentication: A sign-in method requiring another proof in addition to a password.
Operating system: The main software that manages hardware, files, applications, accounts, and the computer interface.
Password manager: Software that creates and stores account credentials in a protected vault.
PDF: Portable Document Format; a fixed-layout file often used for finished documents and forms.
Peripheral: A device connected to a computer, such as a monitor, printer, keyboard, webcam, or external drive.
Phishing: A deceptive message or site intended to steal information, money, or account access.
Pixel: A tiny picture element that forms part of a digital display or image.
Pointer: The on-screen arrow or other shape moved by a mouse, touchpad, or similar device.
Port: A physical connector or numbered network endpoint. The meaning depends on context.
Program: A set of instructions a computer runs; commonly another word for an application.
RAM: See Memory (RAM).
Recycle Bin or Trash: A temporary location for deleted items that may allow restoration before it is emptied.
Resolution: The number of pixels used by a screen or image, often shown as width by height.
Restore: Recover data, settings, or a system from a backup or earlier state.
Router: Equipment that directs network traffic and commonly shares an internet connection among devices.
Save: Write current work to storage in a named file.
Search engine: A service that finds web pages and other online information based on search terms.
Shortcut: A quick key command or a link pointing to another program, file, or location.
Software: Instructions and data used by a computer, including operating systems and applications.
SSD: Solid-state drive; fast storage with no moving mechanical parts.
Synchronization: Keeping selected data consistent between devices or locations by copying changes.
Tab: A separate page or document area within one browser or application window.
Taskbar or Dock: An area used to launch applications and switch among open items.
Two-factor authentication: A form of multifactor authentication using two kinds of sign-in proof.
Upload: Transfer data from the current device to an online service or another system.
URL: Uniform Resource Locator; the web address of a page or resource.
USB: A family of connections used for data, power, and peripherals.
User account: A sign-in identity on a device or service with its own settings and permissions.
Version history: Earlier saved states of a file that may be viewed or restored.
VPN: Virtual private network; an encrypted connection from a device to a VPN service or organization network.
Web: A system of linked pages and resources reached through browsers over the internet.
Wi-Fi: A wireless networking technology used to connect devices to a local network.
Window: A rectangular screen area in which an application, document, or dialog appears.
ZIP file: A compressed archive that packages one or more files or folders.