Technology that provides ‘broadband’ speeds of data transmission over copper lines.
Software that is able to perform complex or repetitive tasks commonly associated with human beings, and even progressively improve itself (or ‘learn’) based on pattern detection, statistical correlations and prediction. Sometimes also called ‘machine thinking’, it is not really smart, but incredibly fast. Self-driving cars or ChatGPT use this technology.
Internal mechanisms that enable two systems to communicate with each other using a protocol. For example, the weather agency’s software system contains daily weather data. The weather app on your phone ‘talks’ to this system via APIs and shows you daily weather updates on your phone.
A kind of CPU with integrated graphics. Originally introduced by AMD in 2011, the company renamed such CPUs as Ryzen with Radeon Graphics, with a G suffix (e.g. Ryzen 5 3400G). An entry level gaming hardware and much more economical than a CPU and a dedicated GPU.
An enhanced vision of the real (physical) world via added digital elements, as in Google Street View.
Short for AntiVirus. Security software used to scan a computer for malware and quarantine or remove it.
A firmware that used to come pre-installed on a motherboard to load before your OS system and perform start-up procedures that check hardware devices during the booting process. UEFI is its modern successor.
Each of the 0s and 1s that comprise computer data at its most basic level.
An explanatory screen that Windows OS displays in the event of a fatal system error (system crash).
A term that describes a common type of digital currency (cryptocurrency) designed as a medium of exchange through a computer network that is not reliant on any central authority, such as a government or bank, to uphold or maintain it.
Practice in which organizations allow employees to use their personal machines (laptops or smartphones, for example) for work-related activities rather than strictly requiring them to use company-owned and IT-managed ones. Cost Savings and a happier workforce are some advantages. Increased distraction and security risks are the disadvantages. .
A string of letters and numbers that have to be typed in on a webpage before continuing. They exist because, although humans find them easy, computers do not.
A type of optical media, so-called because it uses light to read the data stored on the disc. Some can be recorded (written) once, others can be recorded several times (rewritten) and are distinguished by the suffix ‘-R’ or ‘-RW’.
A disc containing PC data (usually software) in common use prior to downloadable software.
In a technological company, but not exclusively, the term refers to the highest-ranking person and the one responsible for managing it, who may (or may not) be the owner of the company too.
An AI-powered language model developed by OpenAI using Python language, capable of generating human-like text based on context and past conversations existing on the Internet.
A text-based user interface, or simply ‘console’, to write commands in the form of lines of text.
Basically, the brain of a PC. Chips are mass-produced and sorted by a process of binning.
A type of memory that sends and receives data twice every clock cycle, thus allowing for twice faster data transfer rates than standard ones. A number suffix (-2, -3, -4 etc.) indicates a generation of faster memory and higher bandwidth.
A type of double-sided RAM stick installed on a motherboard slot that uses a 64-bit bus enabling fast data transfer. The name given to the PCB in which a DDR memory is built.
Usually, additional content created for an already released video game, distributed by the publisher.
A way to protect copyrights for digital media by means of an encryption software that limits unauthorized access or piracy. A product key or license, typically an alphanumerical string, is usually enforced by other practices such as online "activation" aimed to prevent the use of a keygen. Despite their sometimes controversial use, laws in many countries criminalize the circumvention of these otherwise completely legal tools.
A type of optical media that allows far more storage than a CD. The suffixes +R, -R, +RW and -RW refer to variants that can recorded (written) once or several times (rewritten).
A type of digital video connector which improved over VGA in speed and sound transmission, but inferior to HDMI in resolution.
In technology, a period after which the manufacturer will stop producing, selling, or updating a particular device.
When downloading from the Internet, an approximation of how much time it will take for a torrent file to be fully downloaded.
In computing, a (usually lengthy and complex) legal contract between a software developer or vendor and the user of the software which specifies in detail the rights and restrictions which apply to its use.
A list of questions and answers relating to a particular subject, especially technology.
A feeling of anxiety that one is missing out on information, events, experiences, devices or life decisions that could make one's life better. It is characterized by a desire to stay continually connected to learn what others are doing, and is normally associated with worsening depression and low self-esteem.
The section of a motherboard that allows the CPU to communicate with the RAM and other components. Also, the part of a bus where the driver sits.
A common method of transferring files via the Internet from one host to another host.
Equipment used in optical fiber access deployments where fibers extend all the way to the end-user premises and is optimized for use in residential buildings.
A small-sized image file that supports animation. Also, the base for the creation of live banners.
The chip on a graphics card (integrated or dedicated) that processes graphics and video.
A graphics-based shared boundary across which a user and a computer or device, or two or more separate computers or systems, exchange information. Modern OSs use icons, menus, pointers and windows for user-friendliness.
Term used to describe a standard of digital video resolution consisting of 1280 x 720 pixels, or 720p.
An array of internal magnetic disks that store data until deleted by the user, the system, or a program.
A standard for cable high-definition digital video and audio transmission. Its latest version can support 4K @ 144 Hz and 8K @ 30 Hz.
A set of symbols inserted into files intended for display on the World Wide Web.
A generic term for data moving into or out of a computer or component.
A category of Cloud Computing service that provides computer infrastructure as a service. This includes servers, software, storage and network equipment. The use of Aules in the school’s computers is an example. .
A broader term for modern Computing and its extended capacities.
Code given to a user by tech support agents when the user insists on talking to a supervisor.
A bundle of software tools used by programmers to develop software. Also, an old standard for connection of storage devices to the motherboard later replaced by SATA.
A company which came up with most technology standards and acronyms.
The interconnection via the Internet of computing devices embedded in everyday objects, enabling them to send and receive data. Examples include: smart home security systems or wearable health monitors (Fitbit, etc.).
Protocol for communications on the Internet. It specifies the way information is packetized, addressed, transferred, routed and received by networked devices.
A worldwide nongovernmental organization that develops and promotes international standards for technology, scientific testing processes, working conditions, societal issues and more. Also, an exact copy (image) of an entire optical disc such as a CD, DVD, or Blu-ray archived into a single file.
A company that provides access to the Internet, generally on subscription basis.
Like ICT, A broader term for modern Computing and its extended capacities, especially referring to those related to the Internet.
A lossy compression technique for digital images.
A group of computers and peripherals connected within a limited area such as an office, school or department store. Normally, it shares a common communications line or wireless link to a server.
A device that stimulates a gas to produce a very narrow beam of radiation which has an extremely limited range of visible, infrared, or ultraviolet wavelengths.
A special thin flat panel that can let light go through it, or can block the light. The panel is made up of several blocks filled with liquid crystals that can be made clear or solid, by changing the electric current to that block. This technology replaced CRT (Cathode-Ray Tube) monitors.
A semiconductor that emits light known for its durability and low energy use. Modern monitors use this technology, which, unlike that of LCD panels, produces its own light.
Section of an HDD located in the boot sector and that contains the partition table.
A way to measure a processor's raw processing power. Its speed is measured in GHz.
Although the name has an obvious metaphorical origin from the animal world, the term has also been reinterpreted to become a technical acronym for the familiar input computer device.
A lossy compression technology that allows a reduction in size compared to uncompressed audio.
An early Microsoft OS based on commands with no available GUI.
Term that describes the expected time (often in hours) between two failures for a repairable system. This value is a measure of how reliable a hardware product or component is. The higher the value, the more reliable it is.
A storage device or drive that is connected to a particular network to form a central location to store data. You can consider these systems as private cloud networks for small businesses.
The short-range wireless technology behind ‘tap to pay’ contactless payment typically requiring two compatible electronic devices. It’s a fast and secure way to pay for things, ride the train, unlock a door or start your car.
A non-interchangeable unit of data, or a digital asset, stored on a blockchain that can be sold and traded but not exchanged for another asset of the same type. .
Any character in a game that is not controlled by a player, but by the game’s AI.
The default Windows file system as opposed to old FAT32 (File Allocation Table 32).
A PCIe-based high performance storage (usually an SSD) with very fast transfer speeds. Thesy can come in SATA versions (slow) or NVMe versions (faster). The prefix ‘M.2’ states that it is a small form factor.
The practice of increasing the clock rate of a CPU/GPU/RAM to exceed that certified by the manufacturer.
In computer and electronics sales, this term refers to the software or hardware that comes pre-installed on a new computer or device. This is typically cheaper than licensing or buying those products as an individual consumer since retailers can bundle their software at wholesale prices.
A device that converts the optical signal coming through the fiber into separate signals for TV, voice, and data. Though totally different in technologies, an ONT to a fiber connection is similar to a modem to a cable one.
System software that serves as an interface between the computer and the end-user. It manages hardware and software automatically and creates an environment where the user can run programs in a comfortable, well-organized way.
A category of Cloud Computing service that delivers a framework for programmers to create applications. Typically, servers, software and storage are provided, but not network equipment. Google Cloud or Microsoft Azure are examples.
Term for a multi-purpose computer whose size, capabilities, and price make it ideal for individual use.
Generic term for any board made of phenolic resins on which semiconductors and other components are mounted. The colour of the solder mask (outer covering of protecting resin) gives the board its typical green appearance.
A set of technological standards and requirements intended for companies to maintain (or comply with) a secure environment when handling credit card information in monetary transactions.
A common motherboard connection (usually referred to as ‘slot’) for graphics cards, HDDs, SSDs, Wi-Fi and Ethernet hardware. There are different generations, usually doubling bandwidth with each generation. The latest version is PCIe 6.0.
A file type created by Adobe Systems Inc. to share and print image files that cannot be modified.
Term used to mean that the user is the cause of an apparent computer problem. PICNIC (Problem In Chair, Not In Computer) is a variation.
A technology that uses existing electric wiring to send and receive data by setting up a LAN without installing dedicated network cabling. A PLC adapter usually needs an Ethernet socket as well as an ordinary power socket.
IBM proprietary hardware connection: the familiar purple and green mouse/keyboard port.
Internal component that converts the alternating high-voltage current (AC) into direct current (DC), and also filters the output voltage to comply with the fine tolerances required by modern hardware.
A program that is often installed when other software is installed on the computer. Typically, it serves as a marketing tool and displays unwanted ads or add toolbars to your browser. Unlike malware, the software installation usually takes place with the user's consent, for example, when installing a cheat engine for a game.
A type of matrix (or 2-dimensional) barcode with fast readability and greater storage capacity.
A system that lets you store the data on multiple hard drives. Under this system, all the configured drives act as a single storage system.
Volatile memory which can store data needed for running the system and execute programs in a computer or phone as long as the power is supplied.
An 8-pin connector used to connect a PC to a LAN. Originally used for telephone communications.
A number or code created to help the buyer return the products to the seller.
Non-volatile memory that permanently stores data for your computer and cannot be changed by a program or user. It typically corresponds to the device's internal storage in a phone, equaling the hard disk of the computer.
A not-so-nice way of telling someone that the question they're asking is answered in the manual accompanying a hardware device or software product.
An online application offered on subscription basis. Users simply log in via a web browser and use the application which runs completely on the provider's infrastructure. Dropbox, Epic and Microsoft Visual Studio Code are examples.
A standard for connection of storage devices to the motherboard faster than older IDE but slower than modern PCIe-based connections.
Term used to refer to the process of improving a web site to increase its online visibility when people visit it via a web browser.
A technology to monitor SSD health and performance based on trim commands, which informs about which blocks of data are no longer 'in use', and can therefore be erased and made available.
Memory sticks commonly used in laptops, tablets or smartphones.
Term referring to one piece of hardware (or software) which, if it fails, will render a PC inoperative.
A flash-based storage device with no moving parts which allows for faster transfer speeds than HDDs. Its performance is not affected by fragmentation since writing is not sequential, but it has a limited number of read/write cycles.
The total amount of data that a SSD can theoretically write in its lifetime. The higher the value, the more reliable it is. This rating is higher for larger capacity drives as they have more available flash memory cells to write.
In a CPU or GPU, a number that expresses the maximum heat a chip can produce and, also, a basic indicator of its power consumption in watts. This ensures operation under published specs.
A specialized chip installed on many (modern) motherboards by default designed to secure hardware with integrated cryptographic keys and provide security against threats like firmware and ransomware attacks.
A more modern solution than legacy BIOS, supporting larger hard drives, faster boot times, more security features, and—conveniently—graphics and mouse cursors. Modern computers equip it by default.
A scannable strip of black bars and numeric digits assigned to an item for identification.
A battery backup that provides uninterrupted flow of current to the connected devices.
A plug-and-play interface that allows a computer to connect to peripherals. The numeric endings refer to generations of increasingly faster data transfer rates. For example, 2.0 ports support 60 MBps and 3.0 reach 640 MBps. Modern type-C sockets allow cable reversibility.
A legacy standard for connection of monitors and other output devices for SD resolutions.
Term that describes the opportunity to establish a protected network connection when using public networks capable to encrypt your internet traffic and disguise your online identity, which makes it more difficult for third parties to track your activities online and steal data.
A simulated experience (making use of computer technology) that can be either similar to the real world, or completely different (as in a game).
Memory built in a dedicated graphics card or APU to store image data.
A graphical environment intended to simplify the use of GUIs and add functionality.
A feature supplied with many routers designed to simplify the process of connecting a PC to a secure wireless network.
An information service that operates via the wiring of the Internet. .
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