Basic Computer Key Terms

Question 1

applications (apps)

Answer 1

A type of software that allows a user to perform specific tasks and activities.

Question 2

utilities

Answer 2

Apps designed to analyze, configure, optimize, or maintain a computer.

Question 3

operating system (OS)

Answer 3

Software that manages the computer hardware and software.

Question 4

platform

Answer 4

The environment in which a piece of software is executed.

Question 5

feature

Answer 5

A distinctive characteristic of software or hardware.

Question 6

plugin

Answer 6

A component that adds a specific feature to software.

Question 7

Software as a Service (SaaS)

Answer 7

Software licensed on a subscription basis.

Question 8

API (application program interface)

Answer 8

A set of clearly defined methods of communication between software.

Question 9

console

Answer 9

A user interface that manages and controls software and/or hardware.

Question 10

dashboard

Answer 10

At-a-glance views of key info, relevant to a particular goal or business objective.

Question 11

server

Answer 11

A computer or program that manages access to centralized resources.

Question 12

domain

Answer 12

a unique name that identifies a website

Question 13

directory

Answer 13

1. organizes files or data on a hard drive or in a program.

2. Software that stores all resources on a network.

Question 14

Active Directory

Answer 14

A directory service developed by Microsoft for use on Windows operating systems.

Question 15

protocol

Answer 15

A specific set of communication rules between computers.

Question 16

Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP):

Answer 16

One of the protocols used to transfer information (like a webpage) over the Internet.

Question 17

Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure (HTTPS):

Answer 17

The same as HTTP but secure. This protocol secures the data by changing it to special code that requires special translation.

Question 18

white paper

Answer 18

A report that describes how a technology or product solves a problem.

Question 19

whitelist

Answer 19

A list of trusted email address, domains and/or internet addresses that are permitted to pass through a system or filter.