Computer-speak explained

Ever felt lost in tech jargon? You're not alone. Here are some common terms, translated!

July 24, 2024

SSD

Solid State Drive: A super-fast storage device for your computer. It has no moving parts, making it quicker and more reliable than older storage types.

HDD

Hard Disk Drive: An older storage device that uses spinning disks to read and write data. It's slower than an SSD but usually offers more storage space at a lower cost.

CPU

Central Processing Unit: The brain of your computer that handles all instructions. It makes sure everything runs smoothly.

OS

Operating System: The software that manages all the other software and hardware on your computer. Examples include Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Firewall

A security guard for your computer, monitoring network traffic and blocking potential threats.

Plug-in

A small software add-on that extends the capabilities of a larger application - like adding new tools to a toolbox.

Cache

A bit of memory that stores copies of frequently used data for quick access.

Cookies

Small pieces of data stored on your computer by websites to remember your preferences and login status.

RAM

Random Access Memory: Your computer's short-term memory, storing data currently in use for quick access.

GPU

Graphics Processing Unit: Handles all the visuals you see on your screen, like videos and games.

URL

Uniform Resource Locator: The address of a webpage, such as www.littleaussie.com.au

Malware

Malicious software designed to harm your computer or steal information. Includes viruses, spyware, and ransomware.

Spyware

A type of malware that secretly monitors your computer activities and collects personal information.

Ransomware

A type of malware that encrypts a victim's files or locks them out of their system, making the data or device inaccessible. The attacker then demands a ransom, in exchange for restoring access to the files or system.

Encryption

A method of converting data into a code to prevent unauthorised access. This ensures the security and privacy of data, whether it's stored on a device or transmitted over networks.

VPN

Virtual Private Network: Creates a secure, encrypted connection over the internet, useful for protecting your data on public Wi-Fi.

Widget

A small application that provides easy access to frequently used functions or information, like a weather forecast or calendar.

Bandwidth

The amount of data that can be transmitted over an internet connection in a given time. More bandwidth means a faster connection.

IP address

Internet Protocol Address: A unique number assigned to each device on a network, like a phone number for your device.

HTML

HyperText Markup Language: The standard language used to create and design webpages, structuring content and layout.

Hyperlink

A clickable element on a webpage that takes you to another webpage or resource.

LAN

Local Area Network: A network that connects devices within a limited area, like a home, office, or school.

Firmware

Special software embedded into hardware devices that controls their basic functions, ensuring they work properly.

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