MAC ADDRESS (MEDIA ACCESS CONTROL): A MAC ADDRESS is a number that is given to ANY DEVICE THAT CONNECTS YOUR COMPUTER TO A NETWORK. For example, A NETWORK INTERFACE CARD (NIC CARD), which connects computers to Networks and picks up Wi-Fi signals, has a MAC ADDRESS. 

MACRO: Macros are shortcuts for things you type over and over again on the keyboard. For example, if press “CTRL, ALT, DELETE” a lot, you can make that into a Macro by having the Computer record the next time you press that. The computer will then give this shortcut both a Name and an Icon so that next time you need to press “CTRL, ALT, DELETE, all you have to do is press the Icon Button instead of actually doing it.

MAINFRAME SYSTEM: These are Super Computers that are 10 times faster than regular computers. Mostly big Organizations and Businesses use Mainframe Computers.

MALWARE: A type of Virus that disables or damages your computer.

MAN (METROPOLITAN AREA NETWORK): A MAN or METROPOLITAN AREA NETWORK is a computer network that covers a lot of buildings, companies and schools within the same city.

MAXIMIZE: This is to make your screen bigger. You do this by pressing the “SQUARE BOX” in the upper right hand corner of your screen.

MBPS (MEGABITS PER SECOND): Megabits per second is a measurement of connection speed. This is how data or info can be transferred over an internet connection and the rate at which the info can get from point A to point B.

MEDIA FILE: A file that can be SEEN, HEARD or MOVES! For example, a music file can be HEARD. A  video or photo file can be SEEN and an emoji type file may  be animated so it MOVES!

MEDIA SERVER: A computer or any other device that only has  videos, pictures, movies and music files stored on it.

MEMORY: Computer memory is like the Human Brain. It stores all the information (or data) needed to carry out instructions. These instructions can be anything, such as opening and closing a software program, getting on the internet or creating a word document.

MENU BAR: Whenever you are in a document, on a webpage or using any type of software, there is usually a Menu Bar at the very top of the page. It gives you a list of things you can do such as: View, Edit or Tools.

MESH EXTENDER: A MESH EXTENDER pushes your WI-FI signal throughout  a house that is over 3000 sq. feet. MESH EXTENDERS are for houses that are big and may not receive a Wi-Fi signal because of that. You plug MESH EXTENDERS throughout your house so it can spread the WI-FI signal.

MESH NETWORK: A MESH NETWORK is when you use a MESH ROUTER to give you a Wi-Fi internet signal for your home.

MESH ROUTERS: A MESH ROUTER covers big houses. A MESH ROUTER sends a Wi-Fi  signal inside of  houses  up to 3000 sq. feet! A regular Router can only send a Wi-Fi signal up to 300 sq. feet!

MESH WI-FI: This is a WI-FI signal coming from a MESH ROUTER.

META DATA: This is information (DATA) that describes other information. For example, if you downloaded a song on your computer, the META DATA for that song would be the name of the singer who sings the song, the album cover the song is on and the year the song came out.

META SEARCH ENGINE: A META SEARCH ENGINE is a search engine that gets its results from more than one search website all at the same time. META SEARCH ENGINES use GOOGLE, BING, AOL, YAHOO and many, many others when they bring back search results.

MICROSOFT ACCESS: Microsoft Access is a Database program used to put information into organized forms. The great thing about Microsoft Access is that the forms you create in it can be used with other software.

MICROSOFT CORTANA: This is the WINDOWS 10 new Intelligent Assistant. When you want to search for something, you ask “CORTANA” and it will give you results in a “Human like Voice”.

MIFI (MOBILE WIFI): MIFI is a  Portable Router that you can use on the go and  connect a lot of devices to it wirelessly. It works the same way as a Home Router  except the Internet Connection for the Portable Router will come from a Cell phone plan (3G or 4G Plan).

MINIMIZE: This is to make your screen smaller. You do this by pressing the “UNDERLINE BOX” in the upper right hand corner of your screen.

MICRO SD CARD: This is a small memory card for mobile devices that was released in 2005. This is EVEN SMALLER THAN THE MINI SD CARD!

MINI SD CARD: This is a small memory card for cell phones and tablets. This was released around 2003.

MOBILE HOTSPOT (or PORTABLE HOTSPOT): This is when you use your Cell Phone’s Internet Connection (also known as  TETHERING) so that other devices can log onto that connection and use the Internet. This is also known as being a PORTABLE HOTSPOT.

MOBILE ROUTER: A Router that you can take with you  like when you are traveling. The Internet Connection for this type of Router will come from a Cell Phone Data Plan. It is the same as MIFI, POCKET WIFI, PORTABLE WIFI, PORTABLE HOTSPOT, etc..

MODEM: A MODEM is a device that connects you to the Internet through your Internet Service Company.

MONITOR: This looks like a Television set, except it is hooked up to your computer. Without a Monitor, you would not be able to see what is on your computer.

MOTHERBOARD: This is the main circuit board inside the computer. EVERYTHING is connected to the MOTHERBOARD such as the keyboard, monitor, printer, mouse and the Hard Drive.

MOUSE: A small hardware device you use to choose different things on your computer. For example, you use your mouse to click on a software program and it opens up.

MP3: This is a music file format that reduces the size of the file (the reason why is because some music files are very big!). This is good because it takes up less space on your computer and you can download the file faster.

MP4: This is a Video File Format that reduces or compresses the file so that it can download quicker onto your computer. It works the same as an MP3 file except MP3 is for music files and MP4 is for video files.

MPEG (MOVING PICTURE EXPERTS GROUP): This is an electronic group that developed both the MP3 and MP4 file formats as well as other file formats like it.

MULTIPLE DESKTOP (or VIRTUAL DESKTOP): A feature in Windows 10 that lets you have more than 1 desktop on the same computer so that it won’t be so crowded! For example, if you open EXCEL, POWERPOINT and CHROME at the same time, each of them will have THEIR OWN SEPARATE DESKTOP using this feature!

MULTIMEDIA: This is a mixture of Words, Cartoons, Audio and Video.

MULTIPROCESSING: This is when the computer runs two or more programs at the same time. An example would be if you were using both Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Word at the same time.

NAT (NETWORK ADDRESS TRANSLATION): A NAT is used by your router to change a Private IP Address into a Public IP Address. The reason why the router uses NAT to do this is because you must use a PUBLIC IP ADDRESS to go onto the Internet and not a Private One.

NAVIGATION BAR: This is a menu bar located at the very top of Webpages. They use Navigation Bars in case you want to go to other parts of the webpage such as Links, Help or Contacts.

NETFLIX: A Company that lets you view TV SHOWs and MOVIES through your Internet Connection for a monthly fee.

NETWORK: A NETWORK is when computers and other machines are all connected to each other. The biggest network in the world is the Internet!

NETWORK ADDRESS: A NETWORK ADDRESS is the first part of an IP ADDRESS. For example, if my computer’s IP ADDRESS is, the NETWORK ADDRESS part would be 192.168.123. THE  numbers after that is called the HOST ADDRESS.

NAS (NETWORK ATTACHED STORAGE): A very large and expensive external or outside hard drive. These are usually used as “SERVERS” for certain types of files to be stored on them like media files (music, movies, videos, etc).

NETWORK PORT NUMBER: A NETWORK PORT NUMBER is a number given to identify different services, actions, applications and software that is sent over the Internet.

NEWSGROUPS: These are websites where people can go to discuss different news items or topics.

NFC STICKER (NEAR FIELD COMMUNICATION): An NFC STICKER is a very small microchip that can transfer data or connect another device to the internet just by touching it. An NFC STICKER uses radio waves to do this.

NIC CARD (NETWORK INTERFACE CARD): A NIC CARD is a device that picks up Wi-Fi Signals. A NIC CARD is built inside of your computer. If this device ever stops working, you can buy a WIRELESS NETWORK ADAPTER. This is the same thing as a NIC CARD, except you plug it on the outside of your computer.

NODE: Another name for Computers, Tablets, Cell Phones, Printers and other devices that can BE HOOKED UP TO A NETWORK FOR PEOPLE TO USE.

NON-VOLATILE MEMORY: A type of memory that saves and remembers files even when the computer is turned off. In other words, it doesn’t need electricity to SAVE and REMEMBER FILES.

NOTEBOOK COMPUTER: This is a personal computer that you can carry around with you. This computer can run both on batteries and an electrical cord.

NOTEPAD: Microsoft Notepad is a software program that only reads and shows plain words or text. It does not display words with color or any type of style.

OFFLINE WEBPAGES: OFFLINE WEBPAGES are websites that you can go to without an Internet Connection. These files are safe to delete when you run WINDOWS DISK CLEAN UP.

OPEN SOURCE: This means any type of Software that is free or without copyright. People are allowed to change “OPEN SOURCE” software because it is not copyrighted and they will not get in trouble if they do.

OPERATING SYSTEM: A computer software system that manages both hardware and software. It also helps the hardware and software talk to each other. If your computer did not have an Operating System, you would not be able to use different programs.

OUTGOING EMAIL SERVER: This is a Computer Email Server that SENDS YOUR EMAIL.

OUTLOOK: MICROSOFT OUTLOOK is a Software Based Email Program. With Software Email Programs you can download the emails to your computer. You still need an internet connection to do this. Other software Email Programs are: THUNDERBIRD, EUDORA, PEGASUS MAIL, ETC..

OUTPUT DEVICE: A device that gives you information from the computer. For example, a printer is an OUTPUT DEVICE because it gives you the info you INPUT INTO THE COMPUTER.

PACKETS: A Packet is a group of information (DATA) that is broken down and sent from one computer to the next computer over a network (such as the Internet).

PARTITION (or HARD DRIVE PARTITION): A PARTITION is when your computer’s Hard Drive is split into more than 1 drive. This is done so you can run more than one Operating System on the same computer. Each PARTITION will have its OWN DRIVE LETTER TO SEPARATE IT FROM THE MAIN HARD DRIVE PARTITION.

PASSWORD: A PASSWORD is made up of words and letters you use as a security protection when you log into your email, online banking and other things.

PASTE: This is a shortcut action that you can use to copy or cut words from any place you see them and put them in any place you want.


PEER TO PEER NETWORKING Downloading files from other people’s computers directly and without a “Middle Man” like a Website Server. This means that if you wanted to download music, movies or other files, you are going to get them DIRECTLY FROM OTHER FOLKS’ COMPUTERS (which is dangerous because that could mean Viruses)!

PERIPHERAL: A PERIPHERAL is a device that are used to put info inside of the computer and to receive info from the computer. These devices are NOT BUILT IN THE COMPUTER BUT ARE PLUGGED IN FROM THE OUTSIDE ONLY. For example, a mouse, printer and keyboard are ALL PERIPHERAL devices.

PERISCOPE: This is just like TWITTER, except it is done with video. People RECORD what they are doing while they are actually doing it.

PERMALINK: A PERMALINK is a webpage that has IT’S OWN LINK inside of the Webpage that is hosting this webpage.

PETABYTE: This is a high amount of memory and can store a lot of information (DATA). A PETABYTE is higher than a gigabyte.

PHANTOM CAMERA: This is a very, very expensive video camera that is used to create really slow motion movies or video clips. Movie studios usually buy and use these types of cameras.

PHISHING: This is when dangerous viruses are sent through emails. Hackers do this by sending a link inside of the email with a virus attached to it. If a person opens up that email and clicks on that link, their computer can become infected!

PING: This is a test that is done to see how well your computer “talks” with another computer or network. The reason why your computer needs to be able to “talk” to another computer or network is so you’re able to get onto the internet.

PIXEL: This is the smallest part of a picture or image on a computer.

PLATFORM AS A SERVICE (PAAS): This is a way for computer programmers to develop new applications without having to go and buy the software to create it. They can do it over the internet using tools on a website.

PLEX: PLEX is a free MEDIA SERVER APPLICATION that allows you to organize media files on your computer like movies, music and videos so that you can watch these files on any computer or device at anytime. Your media files MUST be on a DEDICATED SERVER so that the files can be accessed or gotten to at anytime as well!

PLUG AND PLAY: This is any device that will work Right Away when you stick it into your computer! You do not need to download anything when you plug in a device that has PLUG AND PLAY because it will work right away!

POCKET WIFI: This is a basically a Portable Router that you can take with you places. You can connect a lot of devices wirelessly. The Internet Connection that a POCKET WIFI uses comes from a Cell Phone Data Plan like 3G or 4G.

PODCAST: These are online syndicated Television or Radio shows that you download onto an MP3 Player. It is like a talk show you watch on television except you watch or listen to it on your Mp3 player.

POP 3 (POST OFFICE PROTOCOL version 3):  POP 3 is used by EMAIL SERVERS so people  can receive  emails.  POP 3 is an INCOMING EMAIL SERVER because it allows you to receive or get emails.

POP UPs: These are internet ads that “Pop Up” when you go to different websites.

PORTABLE DRIVE: A PORTABLE DRIVE is device you can store information on and take it with you. For example, a USB Drive is a PORTABLE DEVICE.


PPOE (POINT TO POINT PROTOCOL OVRE ETHERNET): PPOE is a type of technology that your Internet Service Company uses to give their customers AN INTERNET CONNECTION.

PORT NUMBER: A PORT NUMBER is a number that is given to identify different services, actions, applications and software on the Internet (see NETWORK PORT NUMBERS).

PORTABLE ROUTER: A Router  you can take with you outside of your house and use it to give a wireless internet connection to other wireless devices. The Internet Connection that a PORTABLE ROUTER uses will come from a Cell Phone Data Plan like 3G or 4G.

PORTABLE WIFI: A portable device (such as a PORTABLE ROUTER, MIFI, etc..) that you take with you to connect a lot of devices  wirelessly. The Internet Connection that a PORTABLE WIFI uses will come from a Cell Phone Data Plan like 3G or 4G.

POWER BUTTON: The power button is what turns the Computer on.

POWERPOINT: A Microsoft Software that lets you do electronic slide presentations. You can add pictures, music and almost anything to these presentations! The newest version of POWERPOINT is  “POWERPOINT 2016”.

PPPOE: (POINT-TO-POINT PROTOCOL OVER ETHERNET): A set of instructions (PROTOCOL) that Computers use when 2 or more Computers are  trying to connect to a small network or a bigger network such as the Internet.

PROTOCOL: A set of rules  used to carry information (DATA) between computers and other electronic devices SO THAT THEY CAN TALK TO EACH OTHER WHILE THEY ARE ON A  NETWORK. For example, the type of PROTOCOL used to track computers and devices that log onto the Internet is called INTERNET PROTOCOL ADDRESS (or an IP ADDRESS).

PROTONMAIL: PROTONMAIL is a free email service that allows you to set up the account without having to give your real name, phone number or any other personal info.  PROTONMAIL also encrypts your email to make it more secure.

PROXY SERVER: This is a software that hides your computer’s identity (or IP ADDRESS) when your on the internet.

RAM (RANDOM ACCESS MEMORY or PRIMARY STORAGE):  RAM makes sure programs and applications open up quicker for you. RAM also lets you use more than one program at a time. For example, if you are using the Internet and you want to open up Excel at the same time, RAM will make sure your computer doesn’t slow up. 

RECYCLE BIN: This is where you put things you no longer want such as files you want to delete. The RECYCLE BIN is located on the Desktop.

REGISTRY: The Registry is where the ALL THE IMPORTANT FILES and SETTINGS FOR THE WHOLE COMPUTER are kept. Everything that is on your computer is stored in the Registry Folder. Please do not mess with the REGISTRY if you are not sure of what you are doing, you can mess up your computer by doing this!

REMOTE ACCESS: This is when you can control a Computer without physically being on it. For example, if you call a Tech Support Agent to fix your computer, the agent might do a REMOTE ACCESS by having you download software that will allow him to take control of your computer so he can fix the problem.

RESTORE POINT: A date and time you can record you computer system settings  in case of emergency. With a RESTORE POINT you can return your computer back to the way it was if your computer starts acting crazy!

ROGUE VIRUS (also called MALWARE): This is when a Virus makes itself LOOK LIKE IT’S NOT A VIRUS. In other words, it disguises itself as a legitimate Anti-Virus Program, when actually, IT IS THE VIRUS!

ROKU EXPRESS: A device that allows you to watch Movies and TV Shows displayed on your TV using an Internet Connection. ROKU EXPRESS is cheaper and slower than the other ROKU Devices, that’s why it’s only $30!

ROKU STREAMING BOX: The ROKU STREAMING BOX is a device allows you to see Movies and TV Shows displayed on your TV through a Internet Connection. It is like watching movies and TV shows ” ON THE INTERNET”.

ROKU STREAMING STICK: THE ROKU STREAMING STICK is a wireless device that connects to your TV like a USB flash drive so you can have access to Movies and TV Shows through the Internet. It works the same as THE ROKU STREAMING BOX, except it is smaller and cheaper.

ROM (READ ONLY MEMORY): ROM is a Memory Chip whose job is to only read instructions. These instructions are very important because they tell the computer how to start, how to work hardware devices (such as a printer) and how to open software programs on a Computer.

ROUTER: A Device that is used on networks (computers connected to each other) that takes information and routes or sends it to the right computer. Routers can come in 2 forms: WIRED ROUTERS OR WIRELESS ROUTERS. A Wired Router uses a cable. A Wireless Router uses Radio Waves or Wi-Fi.

RSS FEED (RICH SITE SUMMARY): RSS is like a news reporter that gives news as soon as they get it. The news is sent right away by way of email to people who are signed up to receive it. The news can come from any source such as Blogs or any Website that is UPDATED CONSTANTLY.


SAVE AS: This is used to save a BRAND NEW DOCUMENT THAT HAS NEVER BEEN SAVED. The computer will ask you to name the document and give it a location (tell the computer where to put it).

SCREEN MIRRORING: SCREEN MIRRORING allows you to project what is on your phone, tablet or computer and show it on your TV screen without wires. It works like a wireless HDMI CABLE (see HDMI CABLE).

SEARCH ENGINE: The Box on a  Search  Engine Website that allows you to look things up. For example, if you wanted to look up the meaning of a word, you would go to a search engine (such as, type in the word and the search engine would show you the results of  what your are looking for. This is one of the main reasons why people use the Internet.

SERVER: This is a computer whose job is to serve or give you what you’re asking for (Like a Waiter). For example, a Web Server gives you websites that you request on the internet such as or

SETTINGS (or CONTROL PANEL): On a Windows Computer, this is where you can change the settings, set up user accounts, set up internet connections or remove programs on your computer.

SIM CARD (SUBSCRIBER IDENTITY MODULE): A SIM CARD is a small card inside of your cell phone that does the following: Identifies your phone, tells which type of Data Plan your phone has, Has your cell phone number recorded and Knows the type of billing plan for your phone.

SIRI: SIRI is a DIGITAL BUTLER created by APPLE for products like the IPHONE, IPAD and other APPLE products. It has a female sounding voice and gets its search results from the search engine “BING”.

SKYPE: Software that allows people to make Phone Calls over the Internet and see who they are talking to! This is also called “VIDEO CALLING”. You can see who you are calling by a Video Camera connected to your computer or Phone.  

SMARTPHONE: A Cell phone that not only makes phone calls but also allows you to get on the internet, send email and download software apps onto the phone.

SMART TV: A Television Set that can be used like a computer. For example, it can be connected to the internet and have Apps on like a Cell phone or Tablet!


SNAP: SNAP is a feature in Microsoft Windows 7 that allows the user to view different software windows side by side of each other.

SNAPCHAT: SNAPCHAT is an Application that lets you create weird looking selfie photos. You can send these photos to your friends to popular social websites such as Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.

SOFT COPY: A file that is stored on the computer and is not printed out so you can touch it.

SOFTWARE: Programs that run on your computer. Internet Explorer,
Microsoft Word, Excel and ITunes are all examples of Software.

SQUARE INC (also known as SQUARE CREDIT CARD READER, SQUARE UP, SQUARE CASH APP): SQUARE INC. is a company that sells a small white device which can plug into anyone’s cell phone, tablet or computer and TURN IT INTO A CREDIT CARD READER! Small businesses like to use SQUARE INC because it  also uses the TAP and PAY method (see TAP AND PAY).

SQL (STRUCTURED QUERY LANGUAE): SQL is type of programing software that organizes information (or “DATA”). This is also called a DATABASE PROGRAM because the main job is to organize Data so that the Computer can find the Files you are looking for quicker.

STREAMING: A way of watching Videos, TV Shows and Movies ONLINE without having to DOWNLOAD THEM ONTO YOUR COMPUTER!  (CLICK THIS LINK TO LEARN MORE )

SOURCE CODE: A list of Words that are used as Commands (COMPUTER INSTRUCTIONS) to create a Software Program.

SPOTIFY: SPOTIFY is an Internet music service that gives you access to millions of songs. This is like a Netflix for music! There is a paid version and a free version. The free version comes with ads and not as many songs to choose from. The paid version has no ads and MILLIONS OF SONGS TO CHOOSE FROM!

SSID (SERVICE SET IDENTIFIER): This is the name given to a wireless network so that it can be identified. It acts like a Street Address so that you can tell it apart from other Wi-Fi Networks that come up.

STATIC IP ADDRESS: An IP ADDRESS that always stays the same and never changes.

SMTP (SIMPLE MAIL TRANSFER PROTOCOL): This is the way computers SEND EMAIL MESSAGES TO OTHER COMPUTERS. This type of software sends Emails to where they need to go. SMTP is called an OUTGOING EMAIL CLIENT.

SOFTWARE: These are programs that run on your computer. Internet Explorer, Microsoft Word, Excel and ITunes are all examples of Software on your computer.

SPAM: Junk Email. This is the same as receiving Junk Mail from your mailbox.

SPREADSHEET: A Software Program that calculates information (or DATA). With a Spreadsheet Program you can see how much money your business can make. The most popular Spreadsheet Program is Microsoft’s Excel.

STORAGE MEDIA: Machines or devices that store information (DATA). For example, the HARD DRIVE on your computer is called a STORAGE MEDIA because all the computer files are stored on it.

SUBNET MASK: This is a way  to divide large computer networks into smaller ones. Each device on the same network is given a number so it can be identified and the right information can go to the right computer or device. (SUBNET MASKS are also used to split an IP ADDRESS into the HOST PART and NETWORK PART).

SUPER COMPUTER: This is the largest computer in the world. It is only used for jobs that need HUGE AMOUNTS of information (DATA) processed REALLY FAST. For example, Super Computers are used for collecting and calculating weather patterns for news agencies and scientists.

SWITCH: A Device that has extra outlets (PORTS) on the back of it so that more computers and other devices can plug into it. It is like a Networking Extension Cord.

SYNC (SYNCHRONIZATION): To SYNC means you add the same files to ALL YOUR DEVICES such as your Computer, Tablet and Cell phone.


SYSTEM IMAGE DISK: This is when you create an EXACT COPY of what is on your computer (including files to start up your computer). This is done just in case your computer goes haywire and jams up. This has A COPY OF WINDOWS ON IT, YOUR FILES AND COMPUTER PROGRAMS!

SYSTEM REPAIR DISK:  A SYSTEM REPAIR DISK makes the computer “BOOT UP” or “LOAD” into Windows. You make this disk in case your computer goes crazy and you need a SYSTEM REPAIR DISK CD so you can reboot your computer again!

SYSTEM RESTORE: This works like a time machine because it “RESTORES” or “REWINDS” your computer back the way it was before you installed something new on it like a new software or new update.

TABBED BROWSING: A feature on Internet Browsers that lets you view more than one Webpage without having to close out the website you are already on. In other words, you can look at as many websites as you like ALL WITHIN ONE BROWSER WINDOW!

TABLET: A small portable device that lets you browse the internet, play games, add application software (APPS), play music and download books onto the Tablet.

TAP AND PAY (also known as CONTACTLESS PAYMENT SYSTEMS): TAP and PAY is a new way of using your credit card to pay for something without it having to actually TOUCH OR SLIDE THROUGH A CREDIT CARD READER! A TAP AND PAY credit card terminal sends out radio signals to your card and reads your account info that way!

TASKBAR: A bar that is located at the bottom of the screen that tells you what programs you currently have open.

TASK MANAGER: This is a feature on Microsoft Computers that helps people know what tasks or programs are running on their computers while they are using it. You can get to the Task Manager by pressing CTRL +ALT+DEL on your keyboard or by going to the Windows Start Button and in the search box type in TASK MANAGER.

TCP/IP (TRANSMISSION CONTROL PROTOCOL/INTERNET PROTOCOL): A set of rules that computers use to talk to one another to create a network. These rules (or Protocols) help send information from one computer to the next. To get onto the Internet, your computer probably uses this type of Protocol because it is  the most popular one.

TEMPORARY FILE:  This is like a backup file the computer creates while you are updating an existing file or creating a new one. This is done just in case the computer crashes and you are not able to save the changes.

TETHERING: This is when you use your Cell Phone’s Internet Connection so  other devices can log onto that connection and use the Internet. This is also known as being a MOBILE or PORTABLE HOTSPOT.

TEMPORARY INTERNET FILE: When you go onto the Internet your computer saves a file of websites that you visit. This is done so that the next time you go onto these same websites, they can come up faster on your computer. Your computer has a certain amount of memory saved for these files called a CACHE (see CACHE).

TEXT BASED: A Software Program that deals with only words or “TEXT”. When Computers first got started, everything was text or word based. This means when you wanted to open a program, you had to type in words to give the computer a command to open a program.

TEXT MESSAGE: Text (or WORD) based Messages that are sent through Cell phone lines.

THROTTLED DATA: This is when Cell Phone companies SLOW DOWN your Data after you have used a certain amount. This can happen even with UNLIMITED DATA PLANS!

THUMBNAIL: This is a large picture made into a smaller one to save space on some websites.

TILE: A TILE is a software program  that is shaped like a floor tile. TILES are located on the Start Menu on the Windows 10 Operating System.

TOR BROWSER: TOR BROWSER is a type of web browser that hides your computer’s IP ADDRESS. When your IP ADDRESS is hidden, no one can track you, even if you buy something using a credit card (see VIRTUAL PRIVATE NETWORK).

TOUCHSCREEN: A Computer Monitor that allows you to control the computer by touching the screen. For example, if you wanted to open up a software program, instead of using your mouse, you would touch the Monitor and the program would open up.

TRACKING COOKIES (also called 3rd PARTY COOKIES): A TRACKING COOKIE is info saved from a website you have gone to or bought something from. For example, when you buy something from one website, you could see an ad for that same product on ANOTHER WEBSITE because of TRACKING COOKIES.

TUTORIAL: A short online video used to help people learn new things. You can find them on or other Learning Websites.

TWITTER: A website that is like instant messaging. It allows people to let others know what they are doing, while they are doing it.

UNLIMITED DATA PLAN: A cell phone Data Plan that will not be cut off if you go over certain amount of  data  but YOUR DATA WILL BE SLOWED DOWN BIG TIME!

UNIX: UNIX is a operating system that is like LINUX (see LINUX). Both are FREE and OPEN SOURCE, which means you can change the coding or re-program the operating system because it is not copyrighted.

UPGRADE: An UPGRADE is when you have an older piece of equipment and you  trade it in for a new one. For example, you have an older cell phone and you trade it in for the newest version of the same cell phone.

UPDATE: An UPDATE is software that is always coming up with new ways to fix problems on your computer. Your computer is always getting updates so that it can be safer, run faster and not crash.

URL (UNIFORM RESOURCE LOCATOR): A URL is a Webpage Address that is  inside of a Website. For example, YAHOO is the Main Website, but if I wanted to go to the news section of YAHOO, I would get a webpage address like YAHOO.COM/NEWS.– This is a URL!

USERNAME: Whenever you sign up for any online account or website (such as FACEBOOK, EBAY, AMAZON), you are asked to create a username and password. Usernames can also be called  USER ID.

UAC (USER ACCOUNT CONTROL): The UAC is a security box that pops up whenever you download a program onto your computer in WINDOWS. This is a security feature to make sure that only the owner or ADMINISTRATOR decides what can go onto the OPERATING SYSTEM.

UPLOADING: Sending information (DATA) over the internet.

VIDEO CARD: A card inside your computer that allows the computer to show and play videos.

VINE VIDEO: A short video (around 6 seconds or less) that is taken by an App on a Cell Phone or Tablet.


VLAN (VIRTUAL LOCAL AREA NETWORK): A VLAN allows computers to form different networks while being connected to only one device. (see SWITCH).

VIRTUAL MACHINE: A software that allows you to put another Operating System on your computer in an easy way. The VIRTUAL MACHINE allows you to download 2nd Operating System within it and when you want to use the 2nd Operating System, all you have to do is click on the Virtual Machine Icon and the 2nd Operating System opens up within a Window like a Software Program!

VIRTUAL MEMORY: VIRTUAL MEMORY is info (or DATA) that is written temporarily to your hard drive and then erased when you don’t need that info anymore. This is done to free up space on your hard drive and to make your computer run faster.

VIRTUAL OPERATING SYSTEM: A VIRTUAL OPERATING SYSTEM is like a regular Operating System, except YOU CAN OPEN AND RUN IT FROM YOUR DESKTOP LIKE YOU DO A SOFTWARE PROGRAM. For example, if you have Windows 8 and wanted to run Windows 7 on your computer, you would download the VIRTUAL MACHINE software that allows you to put a 2nd Operating System on your desktop. Then, when you wanted to open up and run the 2nd Operating System such as Windows 7, all you have to do is push the Icon on your Desktop and the 2nd Operating System would open up!

VPN (VIRTUAL PRIVATE NETWORK): A service that encrypts everything you search for and also every website you visit on the Internet. A VPN also hides your Location or the IP ADDRESS OF YOUR COMPUTER!

VIRTUAL ROUTER: A VIRTUAL ROUTER is when you use your computer that has a Internet Signal and  broadcast that signal to other devices without a connection.

VIRUS: A bad program that ruins your computer.

VOIP (VOICE OVER INTERNET PROTOCOL): Software that allows people to make Telephone calls over the internet.

VOLATILE MEMORY: This is memory that can be used when the computer is ONLY TURNED ON. When the computer is turned off, the memory disappears.

WARM BOOT: A WARM BOOT is when your computer restarts AFTER IT HAS BEEN TURNED ON (like after your computer receives updates).

WAN (WIDE AREA NETWORK): A WAN or WIDE AREA NETWORK is a computer network that covers the entire world! The WAN is the Internet!

WEB BASED EMAIL:  A WEB BASED EMAIL are emails that you can use on any computer. All you need is an Internet Connection and just sign in to your account with your username and password. Examples of WEB BASED EMAILS are:  YAHOO, GMAIL, AOL, etc..

WEB BROWSER: A software that you use to look at websites on the Internet. For example, INTERNET EXPLORER, CHROME and FIREFOX are all  WEB BROWSERS. Cell phones and Tablets come with WEB BROWSERS as well.

WEB CAM: A WEB CAM is a hardware device you hook up to your computer to make videos.

WEB CRAWLER (also called SPIDER): A Software Program used by Internet Search Engines to gather information FROM EVERY WEBSITE ON THE INTERNET. For example, if I wanted to search for a cherry pie recipe on Google, I would type it in the search engine and a WEB CRAWLER would bring back EVERY CHERRY PIE RECIPE THAT IS ON THE INTERNET IN THE ENTIRE WORLD!

WEB PAGE: These are Pages inside of a Web Site.

WEB SERVER: A  computer that sends  Internet Websites to your computer or device . For example, if you wanted to go to ““, you would type that address inside your WEB BROWSER. The “CNN” WEB SERVER would then send you their webpage to look at.

WEBSITE: A group of  WEBPAGES all in one. WEBSITES are what make up the Internet and what people search for to get information.

WEP (WIRELESS EQUIVALENT PRIVACY): This helps protect a network that is Wireless. It protects it by making passwords scrambled and hard to hack into. A more secure and updated version is called WPA 2.

WIDE AREA NETWORK (WAN): A WIDE AREA NETWORK is when a lot of computers are hooked up together (in fact, this is how the internet is formed). This type of Network can span across the entire globe through underwater cables, Satellites and Wireless Signals.

WIDGET: A WIDGET provides live information without having to open up a website or the software application to get that info. For example, if you have the Current News and Weather displayed across your phone, tablet or computer—THAT IS A WIDGET!

WI-FI: This is a wireless network and a Wireless Internet Connection.  Wi-Fi uses Radio Waves or Signals, like Cell phones, to connect to the internet. There are other words (and numbers) used to describe Wi-Fi, they are: 802.11 and WLAN. All this means a WIRELESS NETWORK THAT IS ON THE INTERNET!!!

WI-FI BOOSTER: This takes your Wi-Fi signal from your Router and makes it go further or “BOOSTS” it. It’s like having a longer antenna to pick up the Wireless signal. This is used if you only need a stronger Wi-Fi signal in one area. This device is usually screwed on the back of your computer with Antennas on it.

WI-FI CALLING: WI-FI CALLING is making cell phone calls using a Wi-Fi Internet Connection instead of your cell phone minutes. It is basically like using skype EXCEPT YOU CAN’T SEE PEOPLE!

WI-FI DIRECT: This is a wireless signal that doesn’t need the Internet or a Router to connect devices to each other. For example, if you want to send a document to a wireless printer to print, WI-FI DIRECT is used because you don’t need an Internet connection to do that.

WI-FI EXTENDER OR REPEATER: This is a very strong WI-FI BOOSTER! A Wi-Fi EXTENDER can send or “BOOST” the signal throughout the whole house and even outside. The device is  plugged into a wall socket and runs off of  electricity.

WI-FI FREQUENCY (or RADIO FREQUENCY): A WI-FI FREQUENCY are a set of radio waves that travel back and forth between two points. These waves repeat their movements so they can send signals to wireless devices. The most common radio wave frequency used for Wi-Fi is 2.4 Ghz and 5.0 Ghz.

WI-FI PORTER: A WI-FI PORTER is a small  device that connects phones and tablets to a Wi-Fi without giving the password. All you have to do is tap or place your device on the WI-FI PORTER and it is connected without typing in a password!

WLAN (WIRELESS LOCAL AREA NETWORK): WLAN is another word for Wi-Fi as well.

WINDOWS AERO FLIP: This gives your desktop and opened programs on the taskbar both a “Glassy and 3-D” type look to them.

WINDOWS DISK CLEAN UP: A feature in WINDOWS that helps get rid of files your computer no longer needs. The WINDOWS DISK CLEAN UP feature helps to free up disk space.

WINDOWS EXPLORER: This is a program developed by Microsoft to help people explore and get to know what type of programs and files are on their computer. People also use this program to organize and manage their files.

WINDOWS MEDIA PLAYER: A program from Microsoft that plays music, videos and other media files. You can also use this software program to download music as well.

WINDOWS XP: The Microsoft Operating System that came out in 2001. This is no longer in use.

WINDOWS VISTA: The Microsoft Operating System that came out in 2007.

WINDOWS 7: The Microsoft Operating System that is NOW in use. It came out in 2009.

WINDOWS 8: This is the NEWEST Microsoft Operating System. This came out in 2012. One of the new features on WINDOWS 8 is the Touch Screen (or MONITOR). You can touch it to choose software programs and apps like you would a cell phone. WINDOWS 8 is not user friendly and is very hard to use!

WINDOWS 10: The New Microsoft  Operating System that is was released on  JULY 29, 2015. This is taking over for WINDOWS 8 because Windows 8 is not easy to use.

WINDOWS 10 CORTANA: This is a “Computerized Personal Assistant” that WINDOWS 10 has to help you find files on your Computer.

WINDOWS TEMPORARY FILESWINDOWS TEMPORARY FILES are files created to keep track of what you did on your computer.

WINZIP: A Microsoft Software Program that squeezes very big files (no matter how big they are) into a little small file.

WIRELESS NETWORK ADAPTER: A WIRELESS NETWORK ADAPTER is a device that picks up WI-FI Signals for your computer. These devices are convenient because you plug them on the outside of your computer like a USB Flash Drive.

WIRELESS ROUTER (also called WIRELESS ACCESS POINT): A WIRELESS ROUTER  is like a regular Router, EXCEPT IT DOES IT WITHOUT WIRES. It uses Radio waves or Wi-Fi through the antennas that are built on the back of the WIRELESS ROUTER.

WIRESHARK: This is a software program that shows you how your info or data is being sent over the Internet.

WORLD WIDE WEB: The World Wide Web is what you see on the millions of computers that are connected to each other from around the world. This creates the INTERNET.

WORKSTATION: A computer that has specific software that is used for a specific purpose is called a WORKSTATION. For example, if I work for a Company that helps customers pay bills online and the computer at my Job has a certain type of software to help me with that, then I have a WORKSTATION Computer.

WORM:A virus or bad software that can harm your computer.

WEP (WIRED EQUIVALENT PRIVACY):  This was the Wi-Fi Security  that was first used when Wi-Fi first came out. This is NOT SECURE and SHOULD NOT BE USED FOR WI-FI TODAY!

WPA (WI FI PROTECTED ACCESS): A Network Security Program that makes your wireless computer network more secure. THIS WAS CREATED BECAUSE WEP WAS VERY HACKABLE!

WPA 2 (WI FI PROTECTED ACCESS version 2): A Network Security Program that makes your Wi-Fi Connection harder to hack into. Using WPA 2 is more secure than using the first WPA or WEP.

WPA 2-AES (WI-FI PROTECTED ACCESS version 2 -ADVANCED ENCRYPTION STANDARD): WPA 2-AES is the most recent and more secure Network Security Program for Wi-Fi. WPA 2-AES is EVEN MORE SECURE than WPA 2!

WPA3 (WI-FI PROTECTED ACCESS version 3):  WPA3 is the new version of the Network Security Program. This version uses a stronger encryption  that makes it almost impossible to hack into your Router and Wi-Fi Connection! It also makes it safer to use Public Wi-Fi and protects your every move while on the Internet! WPA3 is EVEN MORE SECURE than WPA, WPA2 and WPA2-AES!

ZIGBEEZIGBEE  is a technology that uses radio waves in very small areas. This means the devices that use ZIGBEE MUST BE NEAR EACH OTHER. For example, when you use your remote to turn on the tv, this is using ZIGBEE!

32 BIT COMPUTER: This  is the amount of Data  the computer can  transfer onto it’s  RAM (RANDOM ACCESS MEMORY)  at any time. Usually a 32 BIT COMPUTER  can transfer 4 GB of memory at a time onto RAM.

64 BIT COMPUTER: This  is the amount of Data  the computer can  transfer onto it’s  RAM (RANDOM ACCESS MEMORY)  at any time. Usually a 64 BIT COMPUTER  can transfer 16 GB of memory at a time onto RAM.

2.4 GHZ:  This is a radio wave that is mostly used for Wi-Fi devices. 2.4 GHZ sends a Wi-Fi signal to a large area, but it is not as fast as 5.0 GHZ (see WI-FI FREQUENCY).

5.0 GHZ: This is a radio wave that is mostly used for Wi-Fi devices. 5.0  GHZ sends a faster signal to Wi-Fi devices, but it doesn’t send them as far as the 2.4 GHZ does.

802.11 (also known as WI-FI): This number  means a WI-FI internet connection! It is a number that Computer Technicians came up with along with the name “WI-FI”, they mean the same thing!. When you see a little letter after the 802.11, this usually means the speed of the Wi-Fi Connection.

802.11b: This is a Wi-Fi network speed. 802.11b had a speed of 11 Mbps. This speed was very slow so they got rid of it along with devices that used it.

802.11g: This is a Wi-Fi network speed. 802.11g has a speed of up to 54 Mbps. This uses the radio wave of  2.4 ghz (see WI-FI FREQUENCY).

802.11n: This is a Wi-Fi Network Speed. 802.11n has a speed of up to 300 Mbps. This is very fast! This uses both the 2.4 Ghz and 5.0 Ghz radio wave (see WI-FI FREQUENCY).

802.11b/g/n: This number represents devices that use the Wi-Fi Network Speeds of the following: 802.11b, 802.11g and 802.11n. Routers that uses 802.11b/g/n, uses both a 2.4 ghz and a 5.0 ghz Wi-Fi Frequency.

802.11ac: This is a Wi-Fi network speed. This is the current speed used by Routers. 802.11ac has a speed of up to 300 Mbps. 802.11ac only uses the 5.0 ghz radio wave (see both WI-FI FREQUENCY and 5.0 GHZ for more info).

2G (2nd GENERATION): This is a cell phone data speed. 2G was used from 1990 until 2000. The speed was 64 Kbps.

2.5G (2.5 GENERATION): This is the same as 2G, except the speed was increased a little bit. This was used from 2001 until 2004. The speed was 64 Kbps to 144 Kbps.

3G (3rd GENERATION): This is a cell phone data speed. It was used from 2004-2005. 3G speed was 144 Kbps to 2 Mbps.

4G (4th GENERATION): This is a cell phone data speed. This started in 2007 and is  used currently. 4G speed is from 100 Mbps to 1 Gbps!

4G LTE (4th GENERATION LONG TERM EVOLUTION):  4G LTE  is a cell phone data speed. 4G LTE came out in 2010 and is used currently. 4G LTE has the same speeds as 4G, except the downloads are a little faster.

5G (5th GENERATION): 5G is  going to be the cell phone data speed of the future. It will be released everywhere in the year 2020. The speed for 5G will be over 20 GBPS!




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  4. dwrites Post author

    Thank you SO MUCH Mittie! I appreciate your even LOOKING AT THE WEBSITE! If you have any suggestions, please let me know. Any Law Terms, Computer Terms or any other hard to understand word that needs to be broken down into “Everyday English” lol.



    1. dmeaning Post author

      Hey Eric! This is info on the SOLID STATE DRIVE that has to be erased BEFORE NEW INFO IS STORED ON THE SSD! That is the easy definition like it should be!!! LOL! Thank you so much for coming to this website. Tell others and keep asking questions.

      Thank you





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