All Topic Definitions Flashcards
Definitions of all words learnt throughout the GCSE course
Algorithm
A step-by-step set of instructions for solving a specific problem or task in a computer program.
Programming Language
A formal language used to write code that instructs a computer to perform specific tasks or operations.
Data Representation
The method of encoding and representing data in computers, often using binary (base-2) or other systems.
Hardware
The physical components of a computer system, such as the central processing unit (CPU), memory, and peripherals.
Software
Computer programs and instructions that tell the hardware what to do, including operating systems, applications, and utilities.
Network
A collection of interconnected devices that can share data and resources, such as the internet.
Database
An organized collection of data stored and managed electronically, often in structured tables.
Cybersecurity
The practice of protecting computer systems, networks, and data from unauthorized access, damage, or theft.
Encryption
The process of converting data into a code to secure it and prevent unauthorized access.
Ethical Hacking
The authorized practice of probing for vulnerabilities in computer systems and networks to enhance security.
Operating System
Software that manages computer hardware, provides a user interface, and allows applications to run.
HTML (Hypertext Markup Language)
The standard language used to create web pages, using tags to structure content.
CPU (Central Processing Unit)
The primary component of a computer responsible for executing instructions and performing calculations.
Binary
A base-2 numbering system that uses 0s and 1s to represent information in computers.
Debugging
The process of identifying and fixing errors or bugs in computer programs to ensure they work correctly.
RAM (Random Access Memory)
A type of computer memory that allows data to be quickly read and written, providing temporary storage for active programs and data.
Firewall
A network security system designed to prevent unauthorized access and protect against security threats.
Boolean Logic
A system of logic that deals with true/false values, used in programming for decision-making and conditional statements.
Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC)
The process of planning, creating, testing, and maintaining software systems through various stages, including requirements, design, coding, testing, and maintenance.
URL (Uniform Resource Locator)
A web address that specifies the location of a resource on the internet, typically starting with “http://” or “https://”.
GUI (Graphical User Interface)
A type of user interface that allows users to interact with a computer or software using visual elements like windows, icons, and menus.
API (Application Programming Interface)
A set of rules and protocols that allows different software applications to communicate with each other.