Glossary
Glossary
Boot /bo͞ot/ noun
Start [a computer] and put it into a state of readiness for operation.
Internet Browser /ˈbrouzər/ noun.
A computer program with a graphical user interface for displaying and navigating between web pages. e.g. Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox.
Search engine /ˈsərch ˌenjən/ noun
A program that searches for and identifies items in a database that correspond to keywords or characters specified by the user, used especially for finding particular sites on the World Wide Web.
File manager /fahyl man-i-jer/ noun
A program that helps a user manage all the files on their computer. For example, all file managers allow the user to view, edit, copy, and delete the files on their removable storage devices. Also called a File browser.
(Microsoft: Explorer Apple: Finder)
Peripherals /pəˈrif(ə)rəl/ noun
A computer peripheral is any external device that provides input and output for the computer. For example, a keyboard and mouse are input peripherals, while a monitor and printer are output peripherals. Some peripherals, such as external hard drives, provide both input and output for the computer.
Start Button
A labeled button in some versions of the Microsoft Windows operating system that opens a directory of a computer's software programs and other files.
Default location in the lower left hand of the main display.
Start Menu
Start menu is the primary location in Windows to locate your installed programs and find any files or folders. Find the start menu in the lower left hand corner of your desktop by pressing the start button, which is identifyable by the windows logo.
Desktop /'deskˌtäp/ noun
The working area of a computer screen regarded as a representation of a notional desktop and containing icons representing items such as files and a wastebasket.
Built in tool that allows you to organize your applications across multiple virtual desktops. Very helpful for increasing productivity.
File extensions
A group of letters occurring after a period in a file name, indicating the format of the file.
Apps /ap/ noun
An application, especially as downloaded by a user to a mobile device.
Charger Port
A physical connector that mates with another connector (usually a type of plug on the end of a cable) to electrically connect two devices.
Verified Source
A known good source for software. (e.g. only download google chrome from google. or VLC from videolan.org. -refrain from using sites like filehippo, cnet, etc... as they are a good place to get malware.)
To avoid losing data, it's important to remove external hardware like hard drives and USB drives safely.
Airplane Mode
A quick way to disable a device’s cellular radio, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. That is, all wireless transmission functions.
SSID (Service Set IDentifier)
The name assigned to a Wi-Fi (wireless) network.
Passphrase /ˈpasˌfrāz/ noun
A string of words that must be used to gain access to a computer system or service. Also password.
PC (Personal Computer)
Abbreviation for Personal Computer, used to describe any computer designed for use by one person at a time.
Workaround /ˈwərkəˌround/ noun
A workaround is a bypass of a recognized problem or limitation in a system or policy. A workaround is typically a temporary fix that implies that a genuine solution to the problem is needed. But workarounds are frequently as creative as true solutions, involving outside the box thinking in their creation.
Operating System(s)
Cross-Platform
piggyback applications
adware
malware
software
hardware
motherboard
ram
cmos
bios