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Basic Computer Terms and Definitions
Computer A computer is a device that executes a program or programs.
CPU The central processing unit or CPU, also known as the microprocessor or processor is the brain of the computer.
Operating System – Windows The operating system (OS) is the software that communicates with the computer hardware. No software can be run on the computer without the operating system
Software – A program application Software is a program application; which provides the computer with step-by-step instructions to perform a specific task. A computer cannot function without software.
Monitor The computer monitor is computer screen or display unit. Types of monitors are CRTs (large & heavy) and flat screens (compact & light).
Desktop Is the display on the monitor/screen.
Icon An icon is a small, clickable picture that opens programs on a computer.
Mouse Is a hand held device that helps you control the pointer on the desktop/screen.
Keyboard Is the device used in typing in the words, numbers and to perform tasks. You can also use shortcuts using the keyboard to perform tasks quicker.
CD (Compact Disc) & USB Flash Drive used for storage of computer files or for media
File A file is a block of information includes word documents, pictures, music, etc. Each file is differentiated with the help of a unique file name.
Folder The folder is a system that helps in organizing the files, programs and projects on the computer. It is similar to organizing files on a shelf in your cabinet.
Hard Drive The hard drive is the device where the information is stored.
Hardware Is the physical pieces of a computer; monitor, keyboard, mouse, printer, computer unit, scanner, etc.
Browser The web browser is software that you use to access the internet/World Wide Web Microsoft’s Internet Explorer and Mozilla’s Firefox are 2 examples of the browsers.
Internet The Internet is a worldwide network that helps connect millions of users around the world to share and exchange data, information, opinions, etc.
World Wide Web (WWW) also known as just the web Is a service that is provided on the Internet for the users.
Peripherals Peripherals are the input/output devices that are connected to the computer. The keyboard, mouse and printer are computer peripherals.
Networks A network is a physical or logical construction that connects different computers together and helps them communicate.
Virus A computer virus is a program that is designed to harm the computer. They are basically the same thing as human viruses.
Download or Downloading A download is a file, program or document that is transferred from one computer to another.
Spam Mail & Scams Spam mail is pretty much business or people sending advertisements of their get rich quick schemes or their products to try. They are designed to trick you into giving away your money or your personal details.
Surfing the internet Jumping from page to page on the Web. Just as in "TV channel surfing," where one clicks the remote to go from channel to channel.
