Computer Literacy BASICS

default

(1) A setting that is automatically used unless another option is chosen. (2) In any given set of choices, the choice that is preselected, the selection that is in effect when you open an application, or the settings established during the installation process.

Windows Update

A Control Panel tool you use to check for the latest updates to Windows and to review your update settings.

Format Painter

A Microsoft Office feature used to quickly copy and apply font and paragraph formattings as well as some basic graphic formatting, such as borders, fills, and shading.

Web site

A Web page or a collection of related Web pages located on the Web.

portal

A Web site that features useful content but also contains link to other sites.

online forum

A Web site where people conduct conversations by posting messages.

app

A Windows 8 application, which is an application that takes up the entire screen when it runs and provides a clean, uncluttered workspace for viewing information.

online backup

A backup created directly on a secure server.

remote backup

A backup created directly on a secure server.

local backup

A backup created with the computer containing the files you want to backup and stored on removable media or a network folder.

selective backup

A backup for which you select the folders and files you want to back up.

Ribbon

A banner in the Office Fluent user interface that organizes commands in logical groups presented on tabs.

Charms bar

A bar that appears in Windows 8 when you point to the upper-right or lower-right corner of the screen.

sector

A block of 512 bytes in a track on a disk.

power surge

A boost to the electrical charge that powers the computer, and can occur during lightning storms, power outages, short circuits, and other disruptions to a computer's power source.

gridline

A boundary line used for layout purposes in a table; it is displayed onscreen, but does not print.

FireWire (IEEE 1394)

A bus standard developed by Apple as a high-speed method for connecting multimedia devices such as video cameras to a computer.

charm

A button on the Charms bar.

network adapter

A card installed on the motherboard that connects a server to a network or the Internet.

tower

A case containing the system unit that stands vertically on the floor.

smartphone

A cell phone that includes many features of a computer, such as an operating system and the ability to connect to the Internet.

mixed cell reference

A cell reference that contains both relative and absolute references.

relative cell reference

A cell reference that will be adjusted relative to the formula's new location when a formula is copied or moved to a new location.

property

A characteristic of an object such as a file.

embedded chart

A chart created on the same sheet as the data used in the chart.

adapter card

A circuit board that can be plugged into an expansion slot on the motherboard of a desktop or server computer.

expansion card

A circuit board that can be plugged into an expansion slot on the motherboard of a desktop or server computer.

wiki

A collaborative Web site that people can use to add, edit, remove, and organize Web page content.

account

A collection of applications, preferences, and other settings for a single user.

knowledge base

A collection of articles, videos, and other sources containing information about a product or topic.

update

A collection of files (larger than a patch) that revise software to fix problems or provide enhancements.

power plan

A collection of hardware and system settings that manages how your computer uses and conserves power.

file

A collection of information saved as a unit.

Jump List

A collection of links that provides quick access to files and data.

data

A collection of raw, unprocessed facts, including text, numbers, sound, images, and video.

database

A collection of related data organized into tables for rapid search and retrieval.

service pack

A collection of updates, fixes, or enhancements to software delivered as a single file.

manual column break

A command inserted by the user to adjust where a column ends.

manual page break

A command inserted by the user to force a page break at a specific location.

public switched network (PSN)

A common carrier network that provides connections among public users.

Universal Serial Bus (USB)

A common type of bus that you can use to connect 127 different devices to a single USB port.

gateway

A computer or dedicated hardware device that connects networks using different communications protocols so that information can be passed from one network to another.

interactive whiteboard

A computer program that allows participants in a video conference to interact and make changes to a document.

client

A computer that accesses the shared resources, services, and programs provided by the server.

desktop computer

A computer that fits on or next to a desk, is designed to the stationary, and runs on power from a wall outlet.

server

A computer that provides network services such as sharing files and folders.

personal computer

A computing device that can perform input, processing, output, and storage activities on its own and is designed to be used by one person at a time.

permission

A condition that allows a user account to access a file, folder, or other object.

thrashing

A condition where the operating system spends more time swapping data between RAM and virtual memory than running software.

port

A connector located on the system case that you use to plug peripheral devices into the computer.

folder

A container used for organizing files into manageable groups.

problem report

A copy of the error data, which includes details about the problem, such as the name and version of the application, when the error occurred, and technical information about the state of the system at that time.

relational database

A database in which information is organized into separate subject-based tables, and the relationship of the data in one of more tables is used to bring the data together.

form

A database object that provides a convenient way to enter, edit, and view data from a table.

report

A database object which allows you to organize, summarize, and print all or a portion of the data in a database.

registry

A database of information about the configuration of a Windows computer.

datasheet

A database table that stores subject-based data; the primary object in a database.

field property

A definition of the characteristics and behavior of a database field.

communications protocol

A description of the rules computers must follow to facilitate device identification and data transfer.

theme

A desktop background and a coordinated set of colors, sounds, and other elements.

all-in-one desktop

A desktop computer that houses the processing components in the same case that holds the monitor.

scanner

A device that can change images into codes that the computer accepts as input.

uninterruptible power supply (UPS)

A device that contains a battery to provide power if the normal current is interrupted.

USB hub

A device that contains a number of USB ports, and plugs into a single USB port on a computer.

optical storage device

A device that uses lasers to read and write data to plastic platters that contain a metal layer, which reflects the laser light back to a sensor in an optical drive.

soft copy

A digital copy of data.

hard disk

A disk that is permanently stored in a computer.

read-only document

A document in which users can open and view the document, but they are unable to make any changes to it.

building block

A document part that is already designed and formatted.

subdomain

A domain that is part of a larger domain and is dependent on the larger domain.

text box

A drawing object the enables you to add text to artwork.

backup

A duplicate copy of a file that you can use if the original file is lost, damaged, or destroyed.

spelling checker

A feature of a word-processing application that compares the spelling of one or more words to the words in its electronic dictionary, flags the ones that might be misspelled, and offers possible corrections.

grammar checker

A feature of a word-processing application that marks common grammar errors such as incomplete sentences and suggests corrections.

WordArt graphics

A feature that enables you to transform text into a graphic.

word wrap

A feature that keeps text within the document margins. When the text you are typing fills a line, the feature automatically moves the text you type to the next line without requiring you to press the Enter key.

backstage view

A feature that provides quick access to common tasks for managing documents, such as saving, opening, and printing.

print queue

A feature that shows information about documents that are waiting to print.

data type

A field property in Access that determines the type of data a database field can store.

primary key

A field that uniquely identifies each record in a table.

Normal.dotm template

A file containing default styles and customization that determine the structure and page layout of a document.

spyware definition

A file containing the characteristics of known spyware.

virus definition

A file containing the characteristics of known viruses.

data file

A file created by an application.

file attribute

A file detail or setting that can be turned on or off.

system file

A file necessary for running the operating system.

lost cluster

A file system error that occurs if the operating system loses track of which clusters contain the data that belongs to a particular file.

template

A file that affects the basic structure of a document and contains document settings such as fonts, line spacing, margins, and page layout.

executable file

A file that can perform tasks automatically when you open it.

global template

A file that contains document settings that are available to all documents.

document template

A file that contains document settings, content, and formats that are available only to documents based on that template.

virus

A file that copies itself and triggers computer code to infect your computer.

subfolder

A folder within another folder.

Portable Document Format (PDF)

A format developed by Adobe Systems designed to preserve the visual appearance and layout of each page and enable fast viewing and printing.

HML Paper Specification (XPS)

A format developed by Microsoft designed to preserve the visual appearance and layout of each page and to enable fast viewing and printing.

section break

A formatting code that divides the document into multiple sections and controls the section formatting of the text that proceeds it.

phishing

A fraudulent attempt to steal one's personal information to commit identity theft.

SkyDrive

A free, online storage space for storing and sharing files on a Microsoft server, accessible to users with registered Microsoft accounts.

statistical function

A function that describes large quantities of data.

mathematical function

A function that performs calculations that you could perform using a scientific calculator.

chart

A graphic representation of worksheet or table data.

clip art

A graphic that is ready to insert in a document.

range

A group of adjacent cells selected in a worksheet. All cells in a range touch each other and form a rectangle.

domain

A group of computers and devices on a network that are administered as a unit with common rules and procedures.

record

A group of related fields in a database table.

thread

A group of related messages in an online forum.

network

A group of two or more computers linked together.

banner

A headline that spans the full width of the page, such as the title for newsletter columns.

wildcard character

A keyboard character used to represent one or more characters in a search.

tag

A keyword you associate with a file.

field name

A label that helps identify the field.

software license

A legal agreement that specifies how you can install and use software.

laptop computer

A lightweight mobile computer about the size of a paper notebook that includes the system components, keyboard, pointing device, and display screen in a single unit.

shortcut menu

A list of commonly performed commands that appears when you right-click an object on the screen.

playlist

A list of songs or other media organized in sequence.

quarantine

A location on your computer where suspicious files are stored safely.

sleep

A low-power state that serves as an alternative to shutting down a computer.

keylogger

A malicious program that records keystrokes.

formula

A mathematical equation using numbers and cell references to perform calculations.

bar code

A matrix or series of lines with varying widths and heights that represents letters and numbers.

data transfer rate

A measurement that determines the type of data a database field can store.

podcast

A method of publishing files (primarily audio) to the Internet so they can be downloaded for playback on a computer or a mobile device.

e-book reader

A mobile computing device you use to download and read electronic versions of printed books, magazines, and newspapers.

handheld game device

A mobile device designed for a single video game player to use at one time.

portable media player

A mobile device that can store digital media such as songs, videos, and photos, typically on a small hard drive.

digital subscriber line (DSL)

A modem that uses an Internet connection technology that transfers information to a computer at a high-speed bandwidth over ordinary copper telephone lines.

application file

A necessary file for running an application.

router

A network device that directs the flow of data from a local area network (LAN) to another network connection, either a LAN or a WAN>

modem

A network device that enables a computer to transmit data over telephone lines.

hub

A network device that joins all the devices of a network together; every network device connects directly to the hub through a port; when a frame of data arrives from a connected device, the hub forwards the frame to all the other connected devices.

network interface card (NIC)

A network device that makes the electrical and electronic connections between a computer and a network; usually built into the computer motherboard or installed as an expansion card.

switch

A network device that performs the same tasks as a hub, but it works much faster; instead of sending the frame of data to all connected devices, a switch filters the target for the frame and forwards the frame only to a specific device in the LAN.

cable modem

A network device that uses existing cable television lines to send and receive data.

Virtual Private Network (VPN)

A network service that enables remote users to use a public network (usually the Internet) to access their private networks (usually a home or office network).

wide area network (WAN)

A network that contains a substantial number of computers and covers a large geographical area (a state, country, or even the world).

upgrade

A new version of software in which the developers make major improvements, add new features, or change the software deisgn.

inkjet printer

A nonimpact printer that creates text and images by spraying ink onto paper.

laser printer

A nonimpact printer that produces text and images using the same technology as copier machines.

file path

A notation that indicates where a file is stored and includes the drive name and letter, folder and subfolders, and full filename.

operand

A number or cell reference.

tablet

A one-piece mobile computer that typically includes a touchscreen.

soft page break

A page break that is automatically inserted when you fill a page with text or graphics.

landscape orientation

A page layout in which the content of the document is formatted with the long edge of the page at the top.

portrait orientation

A page layout in which the content of the document is formatted with the short edge of the page at the top.

slide plane

A pane in the presentation window that contains the slide content.

manual line break

A paragraph mark inserted by the user to force a line break at a specific location and thereby create a new paragraph.

stylus

A pen-like writing instrument that works with touch-screens.

input device

A peripheral device you use to enter data and commands into the computer.

Linux

A personal computer operating system related to UNIX.

PC platform

A personal computer that includes a processor made by Intel or AMD and runs the Windows operating system.

backup plan

A plan that follows a regular schedule for creating different types of backups.

mouse

A pointing device that fits comfortably in the palm of your hand. You move a mouse on a smooth horizontal surface to control the pointer on the screen.

trackball

A pointing device that works like a mouse with a ball on top of the device. You use your thumb and fingers to manipulate the ball, which controls the pointer on the screen.

hybrid sleep

A power state that saves your data on the hard disk before putting your computer to sleep.

hibernation

A power state that saves your work to your hard disk, reduces the power for a specified amount of time, and then turns off your computer.

mainframe computer

A powerful computer designed for intensive data processing for hundreds or thousands of users at the same time.

layout

A pre-set arrangement of slide content, including text and graphics that provide placeholders in which you can enter and edit text in formats that audiences can view and read easily, including headings, bulleted and numbered lists, and graphics.

function

A predefined formula that names a function instead of using operators to perform common calculations.

AutoShape

A predesigned drawing object, such as a star, an arrow, or a rectangle.

pointing stick

A pressure-sensitive device that looks like a pencil eraser and is located on the keyboard, generally between the G, H, and B keys.

hard copy

A printed copy of a document.

embedded computer

A processor built into a household appliance or other device such as an ATM, navigation system, refrigerator, television, or other consumer electronics.

utility program

A program that helps the operating system setup, maintain, and protect a computer.

bot

A program that runs repetitive tasks.

search engine

A program that searches documents for specified keywords and then provides a list of the sources where the keywords were found.

window

A rectangular work are that contains tools for performing work and interacting with a program.

absolute cell reference

A reference that does not change when the formula is copied or moved to a new location.

USB drive

A removable disk that you plug into a USB port on your computer.

protocol

A rule that governs the transfer of data and ensures that information created by one system can be interpreted and read by another user agent.

touchscreen

A screen you touch to interact with software.

incremental search

A search that returns matches for the string of characters you type in a search box; as the search text is augmented, the matches for the searched text in the document change.

bad sector

A sector on a disk that does not record data reliably.

encryption

A security method that encodes data so that only authorized people can access it.

two-step verification

A security method that requires more information than a password to authenticate your identity.

biometrics

A security technique using automated methods of recognizing a person based on a physical characteristic.

clip

A segment of a video or other media.

external hard drive

A separate, freestanding high-capacity storage device that you attach to a computer, usually using a USB port.

bus

A sequence of electronic circuitry used to transfer data among computer components.

password

A series of letters, numbers, spaces, and symbols that you provide to access your files, applications, and other resources on the computer.

boot process

A series of steps the computer and operating system must complete before you can interact with the operating system.

Web server

A server that handles the exchange of information across the Internet.

enterprise server

A server used by large corporations to provide employees access to special software used to run the company's business.

file server

A server used by small businesses to share files and programs among employees.

Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN)

A service that can send voice, video, and data over digital or analog telephone lines.

power state

A set of conditions that determines how much power the computer is using.

color scheme

A set of coordinated colors.

style

A set of formatting characteristics that you can apply to characters, paragraphs, tables, and numbered and bulleted lists.

table style

A set of predefined formats that you can apply to all the worksheet data.

cell style

A set of predefined forms you can apply to some of the worksheet data.

algorithm

A set of rules a program follows in calculations or other problems-solving steps.

backup software

A set of system utilities for creating and updating backups and for restoring files from a backup.

group policy

A setting that affects how Windows works and what rights and permissions user accounts have.

slide transition

A setting that determines how a slide is introduced as you move from one PowerPoint slide to another in Slide Show view.

entrance effect

A setting used to control how an object enters onto a slide into a PowerPoint presentation.

exit effect

A setting used to control how an object leaves a slide in a PowerPoint presentation.

motion path

A setting used to create a path for an object to follow on a PowerPoint slide.

emphasis effect

A setting used to draw attention to an object that is already visible on a slide in a PowerPoint presentation.

drawing object

A shape, curve, or line used to create your own graphic.

sidebar

A short article, often appearing in a box, that appears alongside a main article or other content to provide additional explanation or supporting material.

multicore processor

A single chip that contains more then one processor, and includes dual-core processors (two processors on one chip) and quad-core processors (four processors on one chip).

processor

A single computer chip that contains all the electronic circuitry for performing a personal computer's processing tasks.

central processing unit (CPU)

A single computer chip that contains all the electronic circuitry for performing a personal computer's processing tasks. Also called a processor and a microprocessor.

slide

A single page of a presentation.

icon

A small onscreen picture.

patch

A small program that corrects or enhances existing software.

driver

A small program that enables the operating system to interact with a hardware device.

cookie

A small text file that a Web server puts on your computer to store information about you and your preferences.

ScreenTip

A small window with descriptive text that displays when you position the mouse pointer on a command or control in the application window.

chip

A small, thin piece of silicon containing electronic circuits. Also called an integrated circuit (IC).

user agent

A software application such as e-mail, text message, or an instant messaging program.

site license

A software license that allows multiple users to access the software at the same time.

single-use license

A software license that gives only one person the right to install and use the software.

Web browser

A software program you use to view and retrieve documents from the Web and to display the documents in a readable format.

manual update

A software update you download and install yourself.

indent

A space inserted between the margin and where the line of text appears.

computer-aided design (CAD)

A special type of 3D graphics software used by professional designers to create models of products, buildings, and other objects; engineering and technical drawings; and blueprints for architectural projects.

disk

A storage device for digital data.

direct-access storage

A storage method that allows a data-retrieval mechanism to quickly find data.

paragraph style

A style that provides both text formats and paragraph formats such as line spacing, text alignment, indentation, and tab stops.

linked style

A style that provides either text or paragraph formats, depending on the content that is selected when the style is applied.

character style

A style that provides text formats such as font name, font size, font color, bold, italic, underline, borders, and shading.

operator

A symbol that indicates the mathematical operation to perform with the operands.

System Restore

A system utility that helps you restore system files to an earlier state, usually one during which the startup problem did not occur.

worksheet tab

A tab in the horizontal scroll bar to provide quick and easy access to a worksheet.

contextual tab

A tab on the Ribbon that appears only when you are performing certain tasks, and contains options related to your current task.

convertible tablet

A tablet computer that uses a hybrid design that includes a swivel screen or removable keyboard so you can use the computer as a laptop or tablet.

right

A task a user account is allowed to perform. For example, the Administrator account has full rights to install software.

streaming

A technique for transferring data in a steady and continuous stream so you can start displaying the data before the full transmission is completed.

multithreading

A technique that allows the operating system to handle many parts (threads) of a single program.

digital light processing (DLP)

A technology that bounces light off microscopic mirrors on a computer chip.

liquid crystal display (LCD)

A technology that manipulated light within a layer of liquid crystal cells to produce an image.

Clipboard

A temporary storage area in your computer's memory for files and content that is accessed when you copy or move data.

social media

A term used to describe a variety of Web-based platforms, applications and technologies that enable people to keep in touch with friends, find people with similar interests, and build relationships online.

point-of-sale (POS) system

A terminal used for electronic processing of payment transactions in a retail outlet.

Rich Text Format

A text format similar to HTML that enables you to apply text formats including fonts, paragraph alignment, bulleted lists, and hyperlinks; only supported by Microsoft e-mail applications.

Plain Text format

A text format with no colors, hyperlinks, or graphics.

sparkline

A tiny chart embedded in a cell that provides a visual representation of data.

RFID tag

A tiny chip with a radio antenna that can be attached to almost anything, including products, price tags, and shipping labels.

uninstaller

A tool similar to a setup program that completely removes software from your computer.

touchpad

A touch-sensitive surface that can convert the motion and position of your fingers to a relative position on screen; also called a trackpad.

Safe mode

A troubleshooting option for desktop operating systems that starts your computer with only basic services and functionality.

differential backup

A type of backup that copies only the files that have changed since the last full system backup.

incremental backup

A type of backup that copies the files that have changed since the last full system backup or the last incremental backup.

digital video (DV) camera

A type of camera you can use to send live messages over the Internet, make video telephone calls, and send e-mail messages with video attachments.

disk cleaner

A type of disk management took that identifies files you can safely delete to free up disk space.

defragmenter

A type of disk management tool that optimizes the way files are stored on the disk.

disk scanner

A type of disk management tool that scans for disk errors, and then repairs them. Also called an error-checking tool.

T-1 line

A type of fiber-optic telephone line that can transmit voice and data at the same time.

lossy compression

A type of file compression that permanently removes data identified as unnecessary in the file.

lossless compression

A type of file compression that reconstructs the original file without losing any data.

solid-state drive (SSD)

A type of hard drive that uses flash memory technology to store data as electrical rather then magnetic charges.

intranet

A type of network designed for the exclusive use within an organization.

Microsoft account

A type of user account that lets you access Microsoft cloud computing services as well as your local computer resources.

disk management utility

A type of utility software that helps the operating system store files efficiently on a disk and removes unnecessary files.

file utility

A type of utility software that helps you manage files, convert files from one format to another, or thoroughly delete fiels.

address

A unique identifier applies to each device on a network.

username

A unique name that identifies you to a computer system.

Administrator account

A user account created when Windows is installed to provide full access to the computer.

Standard account

A user account designed for everyday computing.

local-only user account

A user account that lets you access only resources on your computer.

command-line interface

A user interface that requires you to type text commands as you interact with the operating system.

user credentials

A username and a password. See also credentials.

software utility

A utility program for managing or maintaining software, including software updating tools, virus and other malware scanners, and system monitors.

argument

A value, a cell reference, a range, or text that acts as an operand in a function formula; it is enclosed in parentheses after the function name.

wireless local area network (WLAN)

A variation of the LAN that connects devices with a wireless connection.

iOS

A version of Mac OS X written for Apple's mobile devices.

cursor

A vertical blinking line in the document window that indicates the location where new text and data will be entered.

insertion point

A vertical blinking line in the document window that indicates the location where new text and data will be entered.

supercomputer

A very powerful computer distinguished by its processing capacity, especially its speed of calculation. To be classified as a supercomputer, a computer must be one of the fastest computers in the world.

time bomb

A virus that does not cause damage until a specified date or until the system has been launched a certain number of times.

logic bomb

A virus triggered by the appearance or disappearance of specified data.

what-if analysis

A way to explore how changing numbers and other values such as dates affects calculated results.

Control Panel

A window containing specialized tools you use to change the way Windows looks and behaves.

keyword

A word that describes the information the user is trying to locate.

Internet

A worldwide system of linked computers.

libel

A written communication that is an untrue statement that can damage a person's or a company's reputation or character.

gigabyte (GB)

About 1 billion bytes, with each byte roughly equivalent to a character of data.

ascending order

Alphabetical order from A to Z, or numerical order from lowest number to highest number.

descending order

Alphabetical order from Z to A, or numerical order from highest number to lower number.

spider

Also called a Webcrawler; automated software that uses an algorithm to search Web sites for relevant information.

worksheet

Also called a sheet; in Microsoft Excel, a grid of columns and rows formatted to contain text, numbers, and formulas.

Webcrawler

Also called a spider; automated software that uses an algorithm to search Web sites for relevant infomation.

search directory

Also referred to as a Web directory; a collection of Web sites organized by category, and then often further organized by geographic region.

Web conferencing

Also referred to as a Webinar; a presentation, lecture, workshop or seminar that is transmitted over the Web.

hyperlink

Also referred to as a link; automatically connects you to another part of the same Web page or to another Web page.

Web directory

Also referred to as a search directory; a collection of Web sites organized by category, and then often further organized by geographic locaiton.

browser plug-in

Also referred to as an add-on; optional software that adds functionality to a Web browser.

complex formula

An Excel formula containing more than one operator.

meta tag

An HTML coding statement that describes some aspect of the Web page content.

Media Access Control (MAC)

An address for communications on the physical network segment; assigned by the manufacturer of the device.

domain name

An address of a computer network connection that identifies the owner of the address (such as an organization or company name).

screen saver

An animated design or image that appears after the computer has been idle for a specified amount of time.

comment

An annotation that the author or a reviewer adds to a document; it is not part of the test but is viewable in the margin or in a separate pane, and it can be printed with the document.

Web application (Web app)

An application stored on a server that you access using a browser.

Recycle Bin

An area on your hard disk that holds deleted files until you remove them permanently.

section

An area within a document that can have its own separate page formats.

spreadsheet

An arrangement of text and numbers in a rectangular grid or table of rows and columns.

digital divide

An economic gap between those who are computer literate and enjoy access to computer technology and those who do not.

computer

An electronic device that receives data (input), processes data, stores data, and produces a result (output).

digital certificate

An electronic document that verifies the identity of a person or company and confirms that they own a public key.

full system backup

An exact duplication of the hard drive, including data files, system files and settings, application files, and the operating system.

shortcut

An icon or tile that provides a quick way to perform an action such as opening a folder.

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) reader

An input device that scans the codes stored in an RFID tag.

pointing device

An input device you use to position the pointer on the screen.

trigger

An instruction that will start a sound effect or animation segment on a PowerPoint slide.

flaming

An intense, online verbal argument.

graphical user interface (GUI)

An interface that uses icons and other graphics to accept data and commands.

scroll bar

An on-screen object that contains arrow buttons and a box you can use to scroll the screen right and left or up and down.

video chat

An online conversation during which you see the person with whom you are talking.

notification

An onscreen message from Windows or an application.

Android

An open-source operating system derived from Linux and designed to run on many types of smartphones and tablets.

Plug and Play

An operating system feature that finds and installs a device driver for new hardware so you can use the new hardware right away.

embedded operating system

An operating system included in the hardware of a device, and that is designed to run the device for a specific purpose and a single type of task with little to no intervention from users.

parallel processing

An operating system technique that allows two or more processors to work together to complete a single task.

multiprocessing

An operating system technique that splits tasks among processors so that each processor can work on a different task at the same time.

multiuser operating system

An operating system that lets many users simultaneously run programs and take advantage of the computer's resources.

server operating system

An operating system that resides on a server computer and is used to manage a network.

software registration

An optional process of identifying yourself to the software manufacturer as the person who purchased a copy of the software.

slander

An oral communication that is an untrue statement that can damage a person's or a company's reputation or character.

Internet service provider (ISP)

An organization or company that provides connectivity to the Internet through a telecommunications line or wireless system.

library

An organizational tool for folders and files that displays similar types of files together, no matter where they are stored on the computer.

projector

An output device that connects to a computer and projects images onto a wall screen or other large, flat surface; also called a data projector.

automatic update

An update that automatically checks for software updates and then downloads them when they are available.

resource

Any component a computer system requires to do work.

conditional formatting

Applies designated formats to cells when the cell value meets specified conditions (criteria).

firewall

Blocks unauthorized access or use to or from a network based on the specified security criteria.

Quick Tables

Built-in tables with sample data and table formats.

SmartArt graphics

Built-in, predesigned, and formatted layouts which you can use to illustrate concepts and ideas.

e-commerce (electronic commerce)

Business conducted on the Internet.

plagiarism

Claiming someone else's words as your own.

crowdsourcing

Combines the collective effort of many people to complete a task; needed services and ideas are solicited from an online community instead of from employees or suppliers.

merging cells

Combining multiple cells by removing the boundaries between the cells, usually done to allow a title or informational text to span multiple columns.

real-time communications

Communications that occur instantly or without noticeable decay.

local area network (LAN)

Connects computers, workstations, and other devices that are relatively close to each other, such as printers and scanners within a confined space, such as an office building, school, or home.

signature

Consists of text or graphics that you create so Outlook can automatically add it to the end of any outgoing messages.

boilerplate text

Content that is frequently used in documents.

splitting cells

Converting a cell into multiple cells by adding cell boundaries.

freeware

Copyrighted software the developer makes available to users free of charge, or for a voluntary fee.

redundancy

Creating more than one copy of a backup.

entry

Data entered in a datasheet cell.

information

Data processed into a meaningful form.

metadata

Data that describes other data.

business-to-business (B2B)

Describes e-commerce transactions between businesses, such as between a company and a supplier.

business-to-consumer(B2C)

Describes online transactions between businesses and consumers.

business-to-government(B2G)

Describes online transactions between businesses and governmental agencies.

removable media

Disks that you insert or attach to a computer.

cluster

Each part of a file stored in a sector.

banded columns

Even-numbered columns that are formatted differently than odd-numbered columns.

banded rows

Even-numbered rows that are formatted differently than odd-numbered rows.

Multimedia Messaging Service (MMS)

Extends the core capability of SMS and enables you to send messages that include multimedia content.

accessibility

Features that make a computer easier to see, hear, and use.

ergonomic

Hardware or other product designed to provide comfort and avoid stress to the human body during usage.

system requirements

Hardware specifications necessary for running software.

drive

Hardware that can retrieve and usually record data on a disk.

ExpressCard module

Hardware that portable computers use to connect peripheral devices to slots or ports that you can access outside of the system unit.

Universal Serial Bus (USB) adapter

Hardware that portable computers use to connect peripheral devices to slots or ports that you can access outside of the system unit.

storage device

Hardware that records and retrieves data from storage media.

worm

Harmful computer code that spreads without your interaction.

computer illiterate

Having the ability to use today's computer hardware and software efficiently to enhance your life and the lives of those around you, and understanding a wide range of information about current computer technology and how it's used to solve problems.

cache memory

High-speed RAM (random access memory) that serves as a temporary storage area for data and is continually updated.

performance

How efficiently hardware and software perform tasks.

alignment

How text is positioned between the left and right margins.

cell reference

Identifies the column letter and row number in a worksheet (for example: A1 or B4).

IP address

Identifies the host device and the network to which it belongs; usually assigned by the network administrator of the Internet service provider.

field

In Access, a single characteristic of a person, place, thing, or event; in Word, PowerPoint, and Publisher, an indication of a location in which variable text or data can be inserted.

Touch Mode

In Microsoft Word and other Office applications, an application mode that adapts the Ribbon for users of touchscreens.

desktop application

In Windows 8, a program that opens and runs in a window on the desktop.

desktop

In Windows, the main work area for running productivity applications, especially those created for earlier versions of Windows, such as Windows 7.

query

In a database, a request for specific data that meets set criteria.

frame

In desktop publishing software, a movable rectangular area on a page in which you enter text and graphics.

Insert mode

In this default mode, when you enter new text in front of existing text, the existing text shifts to the right to make room for the new text.

Overtype mode

In this mode, new text replaces existing characters.

peer-to-peer network (P2P)

In this network design, all the computers are equal and no computer is designated as the server; all computers can act both as a client and a server.

client/server network

In this network design, one or more computers on the network act as a server; the computer providing the service is the server, and the computer that requests and uses the service is the client.

header

Information and/or graphics that print in the top margin of the page.

footer

Information or graphics that print in the bottom margin of the page.

credentials

Information that authenticates your identity when oyu log on to a Web site or an Internet service, such as a username and a password.

software

Instructions, or programs, for controlling a computer.

graphics

Items other than text, such as digitized photographs, scanned images, and pictures.

public domain

Literary, musical, or artistic work that is available for anyone to copy or use.

Domain Name Server (DNS)

Maintains a directory of domain names and their correlated IP addresses; also translates a Web address to an IP address and directs your Internet connection to the corresponding Web site.

Trojan horse

Malware that hides inside another program, and infects a computer when the program is installed.

random access memory (RAM)

Memory the computer uses to store instructions and data temporarily.

shareware

Noncommercial copyrighted software distributed free of charge, usually for a trial period; after the trial period, the license generally requires that users pay a fee for continued use.

Uniform Resource Locator (URL)

Often referred to as a Web address; identifies the unique IP address of a computer or server.

text messaging

Often referred to as texting or Instant messaging (IM), a text-based form of communication primarily used for conversational text.

World Wide Web

Often referred to as the Web and abbreviated as WWW or W3; a global collection of interconnected documents (Web pages) and other resources.

cloud computing

Online computing services for storing, managing, and processing data.

buffer

Part of memory or storage where data waits until it can be transferred to a device.

hardware

Physical components such as wires, transistors, and circuits and electronic devices such as a computer, printer, and monitor.

related search

Preprogrammed queries or questions suggested by the search engine that often lead to other Web pages containing similar information.

collating

Printing all the pages in one copy of a document before painting the next copy so that the printed pages are automatically arranged in the proper sequence as they print.

duplex printing

Printing on both sides of the paper.

hardware firewall

Protects against unwanted access to or from all the computers in a network from one point.

hotspot

Provides Wi-Fi network access (usually Internet access) to a small area for wireless-enabled devices such as laptops, tablets, and smartphones.

drawing canvas

Provides a frame-like boundary between a drawing and the rest of the document and keeps your shapes together as one object.

placeholder text

Provides guidance for adding text, pictures, tables, or charts to fields.

Application Service Provider (ASP)

Provides remote access to software applications hosted on the Internet.

Software as a Service (SaaS)

Provides remote access to software hosted in the Cloud.

netiquette

Refers to good manners and proper behaviors when communicating through electronic media.

software suite

Related applications that are bundled together in a single software package.

system recovery disk

Removable media such as a DVD that contains system recovery tools to help restore a computer is a serious system error occurs.

reverse printing

Reverses the order of the pages so that the last page of a document prints first.

notebook

See laptop computer.

ultrabook

See network computer.

metasearch engine

Sends queries to several other search engines.

blog

Short for "Web log," a Web site where one or more authors regularly post commentaries, opinions, and other personal information for public viewing and comment.

malware

Short for "malicious software," software (including computer viruses, worms, Trojans, bots, and spyware) that is designed to cause damage to a single computer, server, or computer network.

Slides tab

Shows a thumbnail for each slide in the presentation file.

Outline tab

Shows the text on each slide and enables you to edit text and navigate and organize the slides in the presentation.

netbook computer

Similar to a laptop computer, but smaller and lighter, with less power and storage capacity, lacking a CD/DVD drive, and providing a smaller keyboard and display screen than laptops, but including batteries that hold a charge longer.

extranet

Similar to an intranet, this type of network allows specific users outside of the organization access to internal information systems in an intranet.

sizing handles

Small circles and squares on the border of an object indicating that it is selected.

Assistive technologies

Software and devices used to maintain, increase, or improve the functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities.

mobile app

Software specifically designed for a handheld computer, such as a tablet or smartphone.

open-source software

Software that anyone can use, modify, and distribute.

operating system

Software that coordinates the resources and activities on a computer.

spyware

Software that monitors your computing actions, usually while you are online, to collect information about you.

program

Software that provides instructions to the hardware so it can perform tasks.

public domain software

Software that the developer has donated for public use or for which the copyright has expired; it is the only type of software that is not copyright-protected.

conversation

Sometimes referred to as the message thread; the complete set of e-mail messages that includes the original message and all the responses.

audio input

Sound entered into a computer, such as speech, sound effects, and music.

animation

Special visual or sound effects added to text or an object.

packet switching

Splits data into manageable packets (small pieces), allowing a more efficient flow in the transmission of the data.

video input

Still or moving images captures electronically.

resizing

Stretching or shrinking the dimensions of an object.

chatting

Talking to other people in real-time on the Internet; most commonly, the "talk" is created with typed messages, but a chat can also be conducted using sound or sound and video.

VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol)

Technology that enables the delivery of voice communications and multimedia sessions using Internet Protocol.

Secure Sockets Layer (SSL)

Technology that encrypts sensitive information and authenticates servers and clients to ensure a secure connection.

Transport Layer Security (TLS)

Technology that encrypts sensitive information and authenticates servers and clients to ensure a secure connection.

Short Messaging Service (SMS)

Technology that initiated the development and growth of text messaging, and provides the capability for text messaging by phone, Web, or mobile communication systems.

Windows Phone

The Windows operating system designed for smartphones.

Windows RT

The Windows operating system designed for tablet computers.

scalability

The ability to increase processing capacity to handle additional data.

file compatibility

The ability to open and work with files without a format conflict.

page

The amount of data and instructions the operating system can swap at one time.

formatting

The appearance and arrangement of elements on a page.

document window

The area in an application window where you enter new text and data or change existing text and data.

slide layout

The arrangement of placeholders on a slide.

access time

The average number of milliseconds (ms) it takes a computer to retrieve data from the storage device.

margin

The blank space around the edges of the page.

file type (file format)

The characteristic of a file that determines the type of data it contains.

active cell

The currently selected cell in a worksheet.

native file format

The default file type crated by an application.

HTML (Hypertext Markup Language) format

The default format in Outlook that supports text formatting options such as multiple fonts, bold text, colored headings, graphics, and links to Web sites.

Mouse Mode

The default mode in Microsoft Word and other Office applications that places buttons close together on the Ribbon.

font

The design of a typeface.

monitor

The display device used on desktop computers.

presentation

The document file in PowerPoint.

end user license agreement (EULA)

The document that displays when you begin installing software, summarizing the software license and the terms and guidelines for your legal use of the software.

trademark

The exclusive right to visual or commercial images.

copyright

The exclusive right, granted by law for a certain number of years, to make and use literary, musical, or artistic work.

File Explorer

The file management tool provided with Windows 8.

hanging indent

The first line of text begins at the left margin and all other lines of the paragraph hang, or are indented, to the right of the first line.

home page

The first page that appears in the browser when you visit a Web site; your opening to the WWW.

header row

The first row in a table or data source with the column headings.

file system

The hierarchy of folders and files an operating system uses to organize files.

public swtiched telephone network (PSTN)

The international collection of interconnected voice-based public telephone networks.

column heading

The letter at the top of the column in a worksheet.

Hypertext Markup Language (HTML)

The main markup language used to create Web pages; HTML defines the format and layout of a Web document.

Slide Master

The main slide that stores information about the theme and layouts of a presentation.

hard drive

The main storage device in a computer; also called a hard disk drive.

application window

The main window that serves as the primary interface between the user and the application.

channel

The media that carries or transports the message, such as the radio signal or the coaxial cable.

Ethernet cable

The most common type of connection used to connect devices in a local network; looks much like a regular phone jack, but it is slightly wider.

Windows 8

The most recent version of the Windows operating system.

I-beam

The mouse pointer shape (which looks like a capitals letter I) when the mouse is positioned within the document window.

row heading

The number at the left of the row in a worksheet.

screen resolution

The number of pixels displayed on a screen.

Mac OS X

The operating system designed to run on the Macintosh computer.

user interface

The part of a computer system that allows you to enter and receive information.

virtual memory

The part of a computer's storage space that can serve as additional RAM.

storage media

The physical materials used to store data, such as disks and DVDs.

cell

The point where a column and a row intersect in a table or a spreadsheet.

critical thinking

The process of analyzing, combining information, and evaluating information as a guide to making judgments.

archiving

The process of backing up your e-mail messages.

desktop publishing

The process of creating a document using a computer to lay out text and graphics.

setup program

The program that guides you through the steps of installing software and prepares the software so you can use it on your computer.

aspect ratio

The ratio of width to height.

intellectual property

The recognition of the ownership of rights to literary, musical, or artistic work.

move

The remove a file from its current location and place it in another location you specify.

markup

The revision marks and comments that display in a document.

path

The route the operating system uses to locate a document; the path identifies the disk and any folders relative to the location of the document.

Start screen

The screen where you start working on a Windows 8 computer.

order of evaluation

The sequence used to calculate the value of a formula.

information processing cycle

The series of steps that includes input, processing, output, and storage.

pixel

The smallest surface area that can contain color on a display device; short for picture element.

bit

The smallest unit of data a computer can process; short for binary digit.

system software

The software that runs a computer, including the operating system and utility programs.

application software

The software you use most directly to perform tasks, such as writing a report.

minimized

The state in which an application is still running, but the application window is no longer displayed on the screen.

Internet censorship

The suppression of Web content that is considered offensive or a threat to security.

value

The text and numbers contained in a worksheet cell.

system time

The time the computer uses, which is displayed in the notification area of the taskbar.

electronic paper display

The type of display screens used by e-book readers; they consume less power and provide higher contrast in bright light than LCDs.

Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP)

The underlying protocol for the Web.

point

The unit of measure for fonts. The larger the point number, the larger the font size. (One inch equals approximately 72 points.)

file extension

Three or four characters automatically added to the filename when the document is saved; a period separates the filename and the extension, which identifies the type of file.

pin

To add a shortcut to a folder or application on the Start screen or other location.

outcrop

To add extra white space around a graphic.

toggle

To alternate between the off and on states by repeating a procedure, such as clicking a button.

format

To change the appearance of the text or of the whole document.

synchronize

To compare files on two drives and update files as necessary so the drives contain the same versions of the files.

restore

To copy a backup file to its original location on your computer.

crop

To cut off portions of a graphic that you do not want to show.

split

To divide a worksheet into two panes.

sign in

To identify yourself to the operating system.

open

To load a file into an application.

freeze

To lock a row or column to keep an area visible as you scroll trough the worksheet.

edit

To modify or adapt a text or object by making revisions or corrections.

install

To move a copy of the software from its distribution location to your computer.

swap

To move data out of RAM and into virtual memory.

scroll

To move text and content vertically or horizontally on a display screen when searching for a particular section, line, option, and so on.

copy

To place a duplicate of a file in a new location that you specify.

select

To point to an object and then press and release the primary mouse button; also to identify blocks of text or objects you want to edit.

click

To press the left mouse button.

activate

To provide information such as a serial number to ensure that you are installing software only on the number of computers specified in the software license.

filter

To screen for data matching specified criteria.

save

To store a document on a disk or other storage medium.

troubleshooting

To take a logistical, systematic approach to identify the source or case of the problem, and then apply a solution so that the computer is working normally again.

localize

To use settings appropriate for a particular geographical or cultural location.

binary

Understanding only two states - off and on, represented by 0 and 1.

software privacy

Unlawful reproduction and/or distribution of any copyrighted digital files including videos, music, e-books, and software.

spam

Unsolicited e-mail; in many instances, used to advertise products and services.

filtering

Used to block content coming into and going out to the Internet.

Wi-Fi

Uses radio waves to provide wireless high-speed Internet and network connections.

Boolean logic search

Uses three primary logical operators AND, OR, and NOT to define the search.

cyberbullying

Using Internet technology to intentionally harass, threaten, embarrass, or target another person.

telecommuting

Using communications technology to keep the employee connected to the office.

video conferencing

Using computer networks to transmit audio and video data.

drag-and-drop editing

Using the mouse to move selected content from its existing location and placing it in a new location.

case sensitive

When entering a password, the upper- and lowercasing of the letters must be identical to the casing of the letters in the assigned password.

first line indent

When only the first line of the paragraph is indented.

stemming

When you search for a keyword, the search engine also searches for the root forms of that keyboard and returns results that include additional variations of the keyword.

time-shifting mode

When you send messages by e-mail, post information on a bulletin board, or publish a blog, there can be a significant delay between the transmission and the receipt of the information.

root directory

Where Windows stores folders and important files that it needs when you turn on the computer.

workbook

Where worksheets are stored; a workbook contains one or more worksheets.

multitasking

Working with more than one program at the same time.