Tech glossary

BIOS is basic startup software built into a computer’s motherboard. It checks the hardware and helps the computer begin loading the operating system.

Bloatware is software that comes preinstalled on a device or is added later and uses space, memory, or battery without offering much value to the user. It often slows down devices or clutters the system with apps people do not need.

Cache is a small, fast place where a computer stores copies of data it expects to use again soon. It helps apps, websites, and devices load faster by avoiding repeated work.

A CPU, or central processing unit, is the main chip in a computer that carries out instructions and does the basic processing work. It’s often called the computer’s brain.

A device driver is software that lets your computer communicate with a hardware device. It translates the operating system’s commands into instructions the device can understand.

DNS, or Domain Name System, is the internet’s address book. It translates website names like example.com into IP addresses that computers use to find each other.

Encryption is the process of turning readable data into coded text so only authorized people can read it. It helps protect information from hackers, thieves, and accidental exposure.

A firewall is a security system that monitors and controls network traffic to protect a device or network from unwanted access. It acts like a gatekeeper, allowing safe traffic in and blocking suspicious traffic out.

Firmware is the built-in software that tells a device how to start up and work with its hardware. It sits between the hardware and the apps or operating system you use.

A GPU, or graphics processing unit, is a computer chip designed to handle many calculations at the same time. It helps create images, video, and smooth visuals on your screen.

An IP address is a unique number assigned to a device on a network so it can send and receive data. It works like a mailing address for the internet.

A kernel is the core part of an operating system that manages how the computer’s hardware and software work together. It controls things like memory, processing, and device access.

Malware is malicious software designed to harm a device, steal information, or disrupt normal computer use. It can spread through emails, downloads, websites, or infected files.

Phishing is a type of scam where an attacker pretends to be a trusted person or company to trick you into sharing sensitive information. It often uses fake emails, texts, websites, or phone calls.

RAM is your computer’s short-term memory. It temporarily holds the data and programs your device is using right now so they can run quickly.

Ransomware is malicious software that locks your files or device and demands payment to restore access. It is a type of cyberattack that can stop you from using your data until you pay the attacker.

An SSD, or solid-state drive, is a storage device that saves data on flash memory instead of spinning disks. It is much faster, quieter, and more durable than a traditional hard drive.

UEFI is the software that starts your computer before the operating system loads. It helps your PC find the boot drive, initialize hardware, and begin startup.

A VPN, or virtual private network, is a service that creates a secure, encrypted connection between your device and the internet. It can help protect your privacy by hiding your online activity from others on the network.

The Windows Registry is a built-in database in Microsoft Windows that stores settings and preferences for the operating system, apps, and hardware. It helps Windows know how to start, run, and behave on your computer.