Computer terminology can be baffling to say the least, so you would be forgiven for not knowing this type of ‘language’ wrong from time to time. However, a list put together of some of the trickiest computer lingo can be found explained here within this Blog.
Web Browser
This is a program you use to look at, and navigate between, pages on the World Wide Web. Examples include Google Chrome, Internet Explorer and Firefox although there are many others. People are often mistaken and refer to web browsers as “the Internet.”
Memory
Memory generally refers to the temporary storage used by a computer whilst it is switched on. A computer loads programs and data into its memory in order to carry out tasks – another term for this is known as RAM or “random-access memory.”
Disk Space
Disk space (or “hard disk space”), on the other hand, is a more permanent store that holds files even when the computer is switched off. It’s from here that the computer loads things into its memory.
Virus – Spyware, Trojan, Worm, Malware
A virus is a piece of software that can copy itself and attaches itself to some other program in order to survive and replicate.
This is bad news if you run into a virus as it may have some malicious intent or it may exist simply to reproduce your private details such as online banking.
A worm is similar but it can exist independently; it doesn’t need to attach to a separate program. A Trojan is a piece of software that gains access to a computer by pretending to be benign or by hiding within some innocent-looking application. Spyware is software that secretly monitors computer activity, attempting to gain private information without the computer user knowing. Malware is a general term for all such programs – it simply means any software, of whatever sort, written with a malicious intent.
Cookies
A Cookie is a text file sent to your computer by a website you have viewed, these can be very useful in that they can allow the web site to recognise who you are when you return. Although they can be used to track your activity across different websites in order to provide advertisements directly on your viewing page.
Firewall
A piece of computer software or hardware that restricts the data that is allowed to flow through. Firewalls block traffic that is undesirable or maybe of threat to your computer/device.
Spam
Not the kind you eat! These are unsolicited email messages sent out in bulk and generally commercial in nature, these are not worth opening or following up on. The delete button is best for these type of spam emails!
There are thousands of terms out there that even a computer whizz kid might struggle with, but these are very much the basics and something you may want to consider if you use a computer on a regular basis for your business needs.
If you would like to find out further computer terms then please don’t hesitate to contact us at Nevill Media, we are more than happy to help you become more in tune with your online presence.
Nevill Media is able to help you develop your skills, so you can grow your business. You will learn from an internet marketing agency, with unlimited access to easy to follow tutorials and guides included in the packages, with hours of videos and unlimited free support.
Contact us today on 01206 588 000 for more information, or visit the contact page on our website where you can speak with the team regarding your enquiry.