Computers & Information Technology

N.B. The British spelling 'programme' is no longer used to refer to a computer program, although it is still correct in other phrases e.g. 'television programme'.
Word	Meaning
adware	A software application which displays unwanted pop-up advertisements on your computer while in use.  Adware is often installed at the same time as free software or shareware.
application	Any program designed to perform a specific function directly for the user.  Microsoft Word, Outlook or Adobe Photoshop are examples of application programs.
bloatware/fatware	Pre-installed software that occupies a lot of space, leaving little memory for storing personal data.
browser	A program or tool such as Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox or Google that enables you to browse or surf the World Wide Web and view internet sites.
bug	A defect or fault in a program that prevents it from working correctly.  Bugs are caused by mistakes or errors made by those who write the program.
cache	A sort of fast memory used for temporary storage of recently accessed web pages, which enables the browser to display them more quickly on the next visit.
cookies	Small piece of information on the times and dates you have visited web sites.  A web server can temporarily store this information within your browser.  The main purpose is to identify users and possibly prepare customized web pages for them.
crash	What happens when a program or the entire operating system, unexpectedly stops working.
cursor	A blinking symbol on the screen that shows where any new text will next be entered.
driver	A special program which enables a computer to work with a particular piece of hardware such as a printer.
e-business	Business done over the internet or any internet-based network.
e-mail	Electronic mail : messages sent from one computer to another over the internet.
FAQ	Frequently Asked Questions.
firewall	Specialized hardware or software designed to prevent unauthorized access into or out of a computer or network.
font	A particular kind of lettering (e.g. Arial, Verdana, etc.)
hardware	The physical equipment or touchable parts of a computer system (the CPU (central processing unit), monitor, keyboard,  mouse, external speakers, scanner the printer, etc.)
hit	A visit to a website.
home page	The main page or opening page of a website.  It usually contains links to other pages.
login	Process by which a user enters a name and password to access a computer.