| |
|
  
A |
B | C | D | E
| F | G-H | I-K |
L | M | N-O | P |
Q-R | S | T | U-V |
W | Y-Z
| 24 - 7 |
24 hours a day - 7 days a week.
Refers to the type of connection a computer has to the internet (never
off) or someone who spends all their free time on a PC |
| 3270
emulation |
Special software / configurations,
and rules that allow a PC to talk to a mainframe |
| 33. 3, 28. 8 or 14. 4 |
Refers to modem speed. (the numbers
refer to baud rate) |
| 386 or 486 |
Refers to the type of processor or
brain inside a computer. |
| 56K |
A high-speed modem that lets your
computer 'talk' to others, and transfer information at a high rate of
speed using special compression algorithms |
| 640 K |
Usually refers to the first area of
memory a computer works with. Due to hardware and software
constrictions, older computers could not read more than this, and is now
commonly referred to a conventional memory. |
| 8088 |
Very old computer, named for the
type of processor it used. |
| 8 dot 3 or 8. 3 format |
Refers to the file system (naming
convention) used by DOS. File name can consist of up to 8
characters, a period, followed by up to 3
characters. |
A |
B | C | D | E
| F | G-H | I-K |
L | M | N-O | P |
Q-R | S | T | U-V |
W | Y-Z
A
| Active
desktop |
New Windows 98 technology: makes
your wallpaper interactive. Links can be made in the wallpaper, plus news
& information can be displayed and updated as wallpaper. |
| Active
Partition |
The primary partition of the hard
drive, that is set-up to be read and used by the computer / MBR to boot. The operating system is
read, and this becomes your 'boot up' partition. |
| ActiveX |
A technology that improves video
and audio output. |
| Ada |
Programming Language |
| Add-on |
Hardware added to a computer after
purchase to enhance ability. |
| Agent |
Part of a program or system that
prepares information to be "exchanged" with another program, printer,
computer, server, etc. |
| Alias |
A programming term that refers to a shortcut,
or pointer to a program or file. |
| All elbows |
TSR programs that steal resources
without checking other programs in memory |
| Altir |
One of the very first personal
computers. |
| Amoeba |
Derogatory slang for the Commadore
Amiga computer. |
| Analog |
Type of information transfer that
allows for 'variations' and 'in-between' values; as opposed to digital
that is either on | off, yes | no, true | false, etc.) |
| Anonymous ftp |
A type of
login to a computer system. Usually ftp servers on the internet allow any user to log in using anonymous
as the name: and your email as the password. Provides access to limited amount of files
available to everyone |
| Apache |
A brand of internet "Web Server" software used by
internet providers as "servers". |
| Apples |
A Macintosh type of computer, not compatible
with the IBM and PC's. |
| Apple Talk |
Protocol that allows a Macintosh to
talk to a network, or internet site. |
| Apps |
An abbreviation for applications or Programs that run
on a computer |
| Archie |
Type of search server used on the internet to find or store information |
| Archive |
To mark and remove old files either by
storing them on other disks, tapes, or computers. Often compressing them
into smaller zip or cab files to allow for more storage room. |
| ASCII |
American Standard Code for
Information Interchange, is generic text that can be read by
almost any text editor. |
| Assembler |
Very low level Programming language
that directly accesses memory and hardware, etc. |
| Associations |
Refers to how the computer sees
file extensions. The 3 letters after a period in FAT, NTFS, and HPFS
systems) is often registered to a specific program.
(bmp extension may be registered to Windows paintbrush, or another
graphics program) |
| Attributes |
Special settings that can apply to
files, or directories that denote they can be hidden, or marked as system
files etc. |
| Autoexec (dot
bat) |
Special file used to execute
commands when the computer starts up |
A |
B | C | D | E
| F | G-H | I-K |
L | M | N-O | P |
Q-R | S | T | U-V |
W | Y-Z
B
| B&D
language |
Very disciplined language (Pascal,
Ada - used as a teaching structure.) |
| Backdoor |
A hidden or undocumented login
account or access level to a program or system - often left by
programmers so they can get back in to a system at an administrative
level in case of an emergency, or system lock-up. |
| Backend |
The communication or programmer
level of working with data (example. dBase language to sort data; or VB
to change how a form looks on screen) |
| Backplane |
Type of system that has slots to
plug CPU's, and chip sets into (i.e.. not hardwired) |
| Backward
compatible |
The new systems is designed to accept
older hardware and or software. |
| Backbone |
Primary or main system used by a
network. |
| Backbone site (or
server) |
Web site or server that process,
and directs traffic on internet / network. In a sense it performs a
similar function as a CPU in an individual computer. |
| Backend |
Working with a program using the
"Language" the program was written in. |
| Backlinks |
Refers to a website or page, and checking
'back' to see how many other places link to it. |
| Bag on the
side |
Excess code in a program that does
not accomplish much. |
| Bagbiter |
Person or program that has
shortcomings (i.e.. limited in functionality) |
| Banana
problem |
A programming code that doesn't know when to stop
(i.e. endless loop) from the spelling of banana ... not knowing where the
"ananana" stops. |
| Bandwidth |
Network / Internet phrase referring
to how much information can be moved across the network at one time.
Means volume rather than speed. |
| Bang out |
To really test a piece of hardware
(running long hours) or software (try everything) |
| Bang the
board |
To do a lot of typing. (Can be data
entry, or writing program code) |
| barf |
To fail or lockup (often displaying
unreadable characters, or fatal error messages.) |
| Batch - or Batch
File |
Multiple commands, or procedures
run at one time. A batch file is a special DOS file that will execute
multiple commands by running 1 file. |
| Battlefield |
On the Internet - or software /
hardware made public. |
| Baud |
The term used in measuring modem speed
(i.e..
9600 baud rate) |
| Baud barf |
When you get scrambled characters
on screen (or corrupted downloads) because the 2 modems don't get the
communications, protocols, or handshakes correct |
| bboard |
a BBS (Bulletin Board Server) |
| Beaconing) |
When a device sends a constant
message, or request (usually to a network device). Often because this
device is using all the time to talk, it prevents other computers, or
devices from communicating with the network |
| Beam |
To transfer upload or download
files (Taken from Star Trek "beam me up Scotty") |
| Beige Toaster |
Slang for the Mac computers |
| Bells and
Whistles |
The little extras on a computer or
program. |
| Berkeley Quality
System (or BQS) |
Program written for 1 purpose, no
documentation (Berkeley hackers who often pull late nighters) Slang, and
sarcastic reference to college programmers. |
| Beta |
Program or system that has been
written, and is in the process of being tested and fine tuned, but not
yet ready for sale . |
| Beta Tester |
Person or group who test software
(and hardware) in various environments and circumstances before it's
released to public |
| Big Blue |
A term referring to IBM Corp.
(Derives from the "Blue Chip"
designation they earned in the stock market) |
| Big Grey Wall |
The documentation that comes with
mainframes/VMS |
| Big Red
Switch |
The on / off switch of a
computer |
| Big iron |
A Top of the line computer |
| Binary |
Information a computer can deal
with directly. They only understand 1 or 0: on or off (1=on or 0=off). Operating
systems and programs take a sequence of 1's and 0's and
translate them to information we can understand. |
| Bind |
Process to combining configurations
/ protocols to a hardware device. Also Berkley Internet Name Domain -
method of addressing devices by a unique name. |
| Bios |
Internal computer chip that helps
the computer think and remember what devices to use, and how to
communicate to the monitor, keyboard; what day it is, etc. |
| Bitmap |
Type of graphic using coloured dots
to form a picture. |
| Bit buster |
Program that locks up computer by
accessing too much memory. |
| Black Hat
(hackers) |
Computer hackers who seek access to
systems in order to do damage. |
| Bleeding Edge |
Slang: means to work with equipment
and software that is still in development, brand new, and hasn't been
properly debugged yet. |
| Blog |
A blog is a 'snippet' of information. In
the Internet world, many webmasters (and regular folks too) do a lot of
blogging, meaning they keep a little diary of information.
Normally a blog will list a date, and what someone did, saw, or noticed
on that date. Also known as a "Web LOG" |
| Blue bomb |
The blue screen windows jumps to
during a real 'heavy' crash or lock up |
| Blue glue |
Poor or messy work (Referring to
IBM's first SNA
protocols that connected IBM computers) |
| Blue Screen of
Death |
The blue "DOS" screen windows dumps
to at bad, unrecoverable crash or lock up |
| Blow away |
Erase or delete files (not a drastic
as nuke - to delete an entire directory) |
| Board |
The Mother board inside the
computer that connects everything |
| Boot
(Re-Boot) |
To start up a computer (or
restart) |
| Bootable |
A hard drive (or floppy disk) that
has the special system files on it that allows a computer to start an
operating system from that disk. |
| booted |
To lose your connection to the
Internet |
| Bootleg |
Computer software that has been
stolen or copied illegally |
| Bootstrap |
Starting a computer - goes back to
the days when operating systems did not automatically "run" when
started, but rather code had to be inputted into memory to serve as an
Operating System. |
| Bot |
A computer program that searches
the internet for web pages and their content. These are often used by
search engines, like Yahoo, Excite, etc. to find information people are
looking for in the search boxes. |
| Bounce |
To re-boot or restart a computer
(usually heard more around servers than PC's) |
| Bounce |
Returned email due to invalid name
or address. (undeliverable). |
| Brain dump |
To tell someone everything about a
subject during 1 setting |
| Brain fart |
To make a mistake due to working
with the wrong program, language or OS (ex. typing "dir" while in UNIX,
or "list" while in DOS) |
| Bridge |
Networking hardware used to connect
2 'unlike' types of networks. |
| Browser |
The program used to view
internet WW) pages or sites. |
| Browse |
Same as Surf - to get on the
internet and look at different areas. |
| BUAF |
Big Ugly ASCII Font, usually referring
to generic mail readers that only accept ASCII. |
| Buffer |
A memory holding area that stores
information, keystrokes, commands, print pages, etc. until the processor
or device is ready to use it. |
| Bug |
A problem with a Program that causes a computer
to malfunction or doesn't work as intended. |
| Bug
compatible |
New release of software that
retains some of the old bugs. Sometime done so that files from older
versions can be used in the new versions. |
| Bullet-proof |
Make a program that won't crash, or
configure a system that can't be broken into |
| Bump |
To upgrade from 1. 2. Or to re-start or
re-boot (usually network hardware) |
| Burn |
Usually refers to creating a CD-ROM. |
| Burned (Out) |
A person or computer that has been overworked to the point of not
performing up to par. |
| Burnt |
Refers to a piece of computer equipment that has been used up beyond
repair. |
| Burp |
Reset a piece of computer equipment
- normally networking equip. such as routers. |
| Burp |
Refers to router or packet
switching device losing or corrupting a packet. |
| Bus |
The boards and wiring inside a
computer that the information travels on. |
| Buster |
Program used to crack names and
passwords. |
| Byte |
A single character or instruction
of computer language. |
A |
B | C | D | E
| F | G-H | I-K |
L | M | N-O | P |
Q-R | S | T | U-V |
W | Y-Z
C
| Cache
(Memory) |
Special area of memory that stores
recent commands so they can be executed faster than calling the
information back from the Hard Drive again. |
| Cache (Disk) |
There is also disk cache that is
more software related, it basically hold information in memory as it is
writing to the disk, and allows the user to continue without waiting
until the writing is done. |
| Cascade
(interrupts) |
Refers to one IRQ keeping the
information it needs, then releasing remaining info to another device so
2 thing share a portion of an interrupt. |
| Cascade
(menu) |
Menu system that lists a handful of
options, then each option pops out more options when highlighted, or
clicked on. Considered to be better organized than 30 options all on 1
menu pick. (ex. Windows 95 Start button) |
| Cascade
(windows) |
Method of displaying 'Windows' so
that edges of each are displayed with one on top of the other. (method
similar to the way cards are displayed in solitaire) |
| Cat (i.e. Cat 5
wire) |
Wire term, just short for category,
thickness, how it's made etc. |
| Catenet |
Network with various hosts
(different NOS, protocols, etc.) are interconnected via gateways. The
Internet is a Catenet |
| CD writer |
Hardware that will put information
/ files on to a CD-ROM disk |
| Cell |
Single block of information in
spreadsheet programs (spreadsheets often are math oriented
applications) |
| Channel |
Sites on the internet that carry
news and information. (Also networking terminology) |
| Channel
browser |
Software package (or person) that
views news and current event related web sites. |
| Chicago |
Code name for the Windows 95
program code |
| Chips |
Little 'blocks' of silicon with
embedded transistor material that process information |
| Chip Head |
Someone really into computer
technology |
| Click |
Push a mouse button |
Click Through
(or click
thru) |
When a web surfer clicks on a link to go to
another page. Used by add agencies to determine how much of their
traffic is coming from a particular site, and how much they should pay
the site. |
| Client |
The PC, or Workstation that is
being used. The client gets information from a "Server", but does the
bulk of the processing. Client Server network |
| Clone |
computer that is 100% compatible
with the IBM/Intel standards |
| Clusters |
The little 'areas' on a hard drive
(organized with sectors and blocks ) that store files. |
| Clustering |
Grouping of objects (often search
returns) into relevant categories. |
| C Moss (CMOS) |
Special battery in a computer that
stores the Bios information. |
| Code |
verb: To write a program - noun:
the instructions a program carries out |
| Coder |
Person who writes computer programs
(code) |
| Compile |
to convert written instructions
(code) into programs for computers |
| Command line |
An interface used that utilizes
keyboard commands to execute commands rather than using a mouse to click
on items. (See DOS Prompt, Gooey) |
| Computer
Literate |
Person who knows how to use a
computer. Not necessarily understanding the technical aspects, but can
adjust settings with front end apps, and run programs |
| Config (sis) |
Settings for a computer, often
referring to a file on the computer named config.sys |
| Configure |
verb. To set up a computer or
change settings in order to make it perform a task. |
| Configursation |
Combination of configuration and
conversation: it's said that's what computer techs. are doing when
discussing computer set-ups. |
| Cold Boot |
Start a computer by turning the
power off and then turning it on. |
| Consoles |
The little 'extra' boxes that pop
up when you go to a web site, often offering links and/or command
options. (Usually accomplished by using a Java language
applet/script) |
| Control Alt
Delete |
3 keys often pressed at the same
time to 're'-start a computer (Ctrl+Alt+Del) |
| Controller |
Internal computer card that
'controls' hard drives, modems, etc. |
| Control Panel |
Windows applet where settings can
be configured. |
| Cook, Cooking,
Cooked |
Something that is/has been run at
100% (to the point of exhaustion) Often used to describe a CPU or
memory that was run beyond its limits. Ruined or corrupted (often
heard in referring to registry or configuration files that have been
ruined.) |
| Cooking Eggs |
Processor running continuous loop
taking up resources but not accomplishing anything. Usually a task no
longer needed. |
| Cooling |
Often seen with terms like "mod". Meaning
to use extra methods to cool down and remove the heat from inside a
computer. This is done when someone runs the computer faster than
it was intended to run. Also called overclocking. By
"cooling" the pc, the extra heat that would normally build-up and
destroy a computer is dissipated, allowing a user to run it faster than
it should be. |
| Copyleft |
License agreement for GPL software
and OS's (Linux and applications for Linux) that state that you can sell
any program written by you but you must make the source code available
to anyone who wants it for free. |
| Corrupted (files /
download) |
Means the entire file is not in
tact or proper order because something has written over part of it, or a
program has changed it in some way that it is not readable. Often
happens when files are downloaded, and parts of the file are lost in
transit. |
| Cow |
Slang for Gateway brand
computers |
| CPM (CP/M) |
First operating system developed
for personal computers. (Control Program for Microcomputers). |
| Crack |
To break into a computer
system |
| Crash |
Hard Drive fails -or- program locks
up |
| Crawler |
Internet program that searches
websites for content - see Bot. |
| Crippleware |
Software that has some of it's
features disabled, or that crashes your system |
| cron |
Unix program used to capture,
measure, and output time functions/ |
| Cross Linked
Files |
Refers to 2 files who both claim
the same space on a hard disk |
| Cursor |
In DOS it is the blinking line or
box after the C:\>, in Windows it usually refers to where the mouse
pointer is, or area of program where typing will occur. |
| Cut and Paste |
Process of removing something
(picture, text, etc.) from one program or file and putting it into
another. Cut differs from copy in that you remove the original when you
cut, and you make a duplicate when you copy. |
| Cyber ... |
The internet (i.e. cyber surf=check out web sites) |
| Cyber junkie |
Person addicted to surfing the net
(Hint: if you spend more than 5 - 10 hours a week viewing web pages, you
may be one) |
| Cybershop |
Purchase items over the
internet. |
| Cyberspace |
The internet |
| Cybersurfer |
Person who gets on to the internet,
and views various 'Web Sites'. |
A |
B | C | D | E
| F | G-H | I-K |
L | M | N-O | P |
Q-R | S | T | U-V |
W | Y-Z
D
| Daemon |
Disk And Executive Monitor.
Program that runs in the background collecting data or doing OS admin.
tasks. |
| D-channel |
with ISDN lines: D = delta that
carries control and signal info B = voice, data, etc. |
| Database |
Computer program used to store
information in "Records" and "Fields" containing information. (ex. Names
and phone numbers; items and serial numbers; etc.) |
| Debug |
To test / re-write a program;
remove problems, and cleaning unnecessary code |
| Dedicated
(server/program) |
Computer / program used for only 1
individual task (graphic design, web server) |
| Dedicated
(line) |
A phone line (or ISDN, T1, etc.)
used solely for computer connections. |
| Defrag (to
De-fragment) |
To clean up a disk by moving and
organizing all the files so all parts of the same file are contiguous
(all together in same place) on the disk / Hard Drive |
| Delimited |
What separates fields of
information in text files (ex. Export a dBase database file to ASCII
text in a "tab delimitated" format, so that a tab character separates
the first name from the last name fields, then use the file in another
program.) |
| Desktop
Publishing |
Creating graphic publications
(artwork, text, graphs, tables, etc.) with a computer and software.
Cheaper and easier than printing press, and type setting. |
| Device |
Just means a piece of equipment,
can be printer, sound card, monitor, mouse, etc. |
| Diags |
Diagnostics to find problems,
settings, and/or solutions. |
| Digital |
Type of information transfer that
is either in on or off state (see analog) |
| Digitiser |
Piece of equipment that converts
signals or objects into digital files or signals that a computer can
read and work with. |
| Digitiser |
Special 'tablet' used by CAD
programs to use pre-programmed commands, symbols, or batches. |
| Dinosaur |
A Very old computer (8088, Commadore, Amega, Tandy 1000, etc) |
| Dilbert |
somewhat of a geek, computer nerd
with not much of a life (from the cartoon strip) |
| Dog |
Computer that is very slow either
because of very little memory or the CPU is old. |
| Doesn't have a
clue |
Person who doesn't know anything
about computers. |
| Domain |
A logical grouping of computers
and/or networks. In NT networking terminology it is a logical grouping
of a network. More complex and object oriented than the hierarchical
structure used by DOS, Banyan, etc. |
| Dork |
Person who thinks they know a lot
about computers but really doesn't. |
| DOS Box |
Old computer without enough memory,
or disk space, or other capabilities to run any other operating system
other than DOS. Very weak, or old computer. |
| DOS Prompt |
When you exit Windows the place
where you type on the screen " C:\> " |
| Dot prompt |
Command line for dBase
applications. |
| Double Click |
To push the mouse button twice in
rapid succession |
| Downlink |
Process of establishing
communications FROM a satellite TO a computer. |
| Download |
To transfer files (from a distant
computer or server to the one you're using) |
| Drag (Drag &
Drop) |
To move something in Windows by
'clicking' on something, holding the button down, and 'Drag' (or move)
it to somewhere else |
| Dribbleware |
Programs released for sale before
they're ready, (debugged), then as product improves - 'fixes' or
'patches' are made available on the internet a little bit at a time -
and the patches and add-ons are referred to dribbleware. |
| Drill down |
Organization method of menus for
getting to settings and configurations. Meaning you open one box - click
on a button to open a 2nd box, click on another button to open the third
box where you can change a setting (font size, screen colour,
etc.) |
| Drivers |
Files that contain instruction on
how to communicate with other hardware/software. |
| Drop |
Connection place for computer to
plug into a network. |
| Dual Boot |
Computer that can run more than one
operating system (i.e.. DOS & OS/2). Computer has the 'Hard drive'
separated into more than 1 'bootable' partition, once the desired
partition is chosen, the computer starts with that Operating
System. |
| Dumb Little
Library |
Slang for special files with
extension .dll that hold information (database, ions, sounds, pictures,
etc.) Other programs access to retrieve the information. |
| Dump (Disk) |
1. to move contents of a disk to
another disk. |
| Dump (Memory) |
2. Memory= to move contents of
memory to another program or file. Often done with diagnostic and
monitoring programs when a program crashes. (Crashguard, Dr.Watson,
Safelock, etc.) |
| DUN (done) |
Dial Up Networking: a communication
package included with Windows 9x systems that assists users in
connecting their computer to the internet. More robust than the
HyperTerminal program. |
| Duplex |
"Both" - In communication
terminology means 'talks both ways' in printing, means printing on both
sides of a page, etc. |
A |
B | C | D | E
| F | G-H | I-K |
L | M | N-O | P |
Q-R | S | T | U-V |
W | Y-Z
E
| egosurf |
To 'post' or search for ones own
messages, or name on the internet. |
| Emulator |
Program the "pretends" or "acts as"
another program, operating system, connection, or platform. An emulator
can pretend to run Windows from a Linux platform, or a Mainframe from a
Windows platform. |
| e-Mail |
Electronic Mail: (written memo's
that get transferred from one person to another through computers and
networks or the internet. |
| End User |
Person who will ultimately use a
program (or hardware) to organize data. The end user of a word processor
is the person who actually types up a letter, and prints it. |
| Ethernet |
Type of networking that uses a
'bus' style network structure, and error checking. |
| Explorer |
Refers to 95 version of file
manager; AND Microsoft's Internet browser. |
| Expanded
Memory |
Special use of software and
'add-on' boards to use memory over 640 Kb. Used in earlier years, and
older programs. |
| Extended
Memory |
Memory above the 1st Meg or RAM -
addressed by memory managers (himem.sys). Allows programs to make use of
memory beyond the 640 range. |
| External
Command |
Program or function that is not an
internal part of an OS, but a command that runs by its self. (ex. tree
is actually a program 'tree.exe' that runs in DOS but not as part of
DOS's command.com kernel) |
| e-zine |
Web site dedicated to providing
news and information (like magazines). |
A |
B | C | D | E
| F | G-H | I-K |
L | M | N-O | P |
Q-R | S | T | U-V |
W | Y-Z
F
| FAT |
File Allocation Table: special
information stored on a PC's hard drive that tells it where the files
are stored, and what their names are. (FAT32 is the new design for the
Windows 98 file system.) |
| Fatal Error |
Error that has so confused your
processor that it needs to be restarted. |
| Fdisk |
Special program used to set up
'partitions' on a hard drive. |
| Fiber (Optic) |
Type of 'wire' made of glass; -
transfers data more quickly than copper |
| File
Extension |
Files are stored in a computer with
names. The names have a first part, and often a period followed by a
second part (up to 3 letters). The part after the period is called the
file extension. |
| Filter |
set of instructions that 'filter'
out and display only the information being looked for from large amount
of data. Often used with database, and DOS programmers. |
| Firmware |
Software instruction imbedded into
'chips' or hardware. (can only be changed or programmed with special
equipment.) |
| Finger |
UNIX command that checks users or
groups on internet. Also refers to programs that 'go out' to remote
sites, servers, equipment and checks the status of an item and reports
back the findings. |
| Flame |
To put someone down, insult, on
the internet (usually by newsgroup postings, email responses, and chat
room posts.) Happens often when one posts a question or comment in a
newsgroup deemed inappropriate. (posting 'long live dos' in a Linux
newsgroup) |
| Flammin |
Really hot, up to date, or fast. That new
vid card is really flammin. |
| Flow Chart |
Schematic diagram of how a program
will work. |
| Foo / Bar |
1st and 2nd variable in computer
code (hacker talk from the FUBAR acronym) |
| Font |
A style of text used in computers
or typefaces. (Ariel, Times New Roman, etc.) |
| Format |
To prepare a disk for use. This
involves using software to make the hardware write electro-magnetic
signatures on a disk, and establish an area to keep the directory and
file structures, called the FAT. |
| Frames |
Newer technology that allow
Internet web sites to divide a web page in different parts and
functions. (i.e.. 2 separate windows to scroll through) |
| Frames |
Individual packets of information
transmitted over a network or internet. |
| Fred / Barney |
1st and 2nd variable in computer
code (hacker talk) |
| Freeware |
Software you can download from the
internet that is free (see shareware) |
| Front End |
Interface users see to work with
data. (may look like a little form to put info in) |
| Fry |
To ruin by overworking (ex. Fried
the CPU with a division by 0 problem) -OR- by connecting up hardware
incorrectly (fried the CD by using the wrong controller) |
| ftp |
File Transfer Protocol: Set of
standards for transferring information (in the form of files) from one
computer to another; Verb: to download files from
internet. |
A |
B | C | D | E
| F | G-H | I-K |
L | M | N-O | P |
Q-R | S | T | U-V |
W | Y-Z
G - H
| Gamer |
Person who plays computer games
(often with others over network / internet) |
| Gateway |
Networking hardware used to connect
several networks, mainframes, servers, etc. Has memory and software, and
can process protocols and conversions. |
| Gates Clone (or
Little Gates) |
Person who believes that Microsoft
is always right, only uses MS Products. (Usually young, intelligent, and
very computer literate) |
| Geek |
Someone really into computers
and/or technology. |
| Gifs |
Artwork found on the internet. can
be "animated" |
| Gopher |
Type of search and retrieval tool
(or server format) on the internet to find/store information. Can use
Archie, Veronica and Jughead tools. |
| Gooey (GUI) |
Graphical User Interface as opposed
to the command line users see in DOS. Type of interaction where a mouse
is used to point and click on 'buttons' or menu items to execute
instructions to computer. |
| Hack |
In the computer industry it is a
positive term for people who can get into settings, and configurations
to fix or access files and/or programs. Lay terms consider it to be a
person who breaks into others computers. |
| Hacked |
To have someone break into your computer,
usually over the Internet. Not a good thing. |
| Hacking Code |
"Dis-assemble" a computer program
in order to disable parts of it (usually using assembly language), or
writing new code to enhance a program |
| Handshake |
When 2 computers (or pieces of
computer equipment) agree on how to communicate |
| Hard Code |
The actual text compiled to create
a program. Many Languages are now visual so that items can be copied,
dragged, pasted into a program. Hard code is the typed commands. (ex.
x=0 do while x<>5 printf Hi /n x=x+1 |
| Hard Coded |
Chips or memory that contain
software type instructions, programmed into them when they are created,
often referred to as ROM |
| Hard Wired. |
Refers to chips, ports, or devices
connected to motherboard (or computer) as it is being built as opposed
to cards that can be 'plugged in' and out after production. |
| Heads |
Part of computer's drive that scans
and reads files from disk. |
| Hex |
A numbering system used in
computers where there are 16 possible places (base 16 format uses
letters to assign values) binary=(base 2), and people use base 10. |
| High and
tight |
Well written computer code /
program (not much waste) |
| High End |
The upper end product a company
offers (either hardware or software) usually geared toward business use
due to complexity, features, and price |
| High Memory |
Memory between 1st 640 Kb
(conventional), and 1 Mb of RAM memory. This is usually reserved for
video drivers and programs. |
| Hit |
To attach to a remote computer or
web site |
| Hits |
Number of items that got pulled up
from a web server. If a page has 4 graphics, 1 java program, a
style sheet associated with it, and a sound file - then ONE person
looking at that ONE page will record 8 HITS. Not an accurate way
to document how much a site gets seen. |
| Hog (Pig) |
A computer program that uses A LOT
of memory |
| hop |
From 1 computer to the next (from
your PC to your ISP is 1, from there to the next is a 2nd hop, and maybe
to the W3 site you're looking for the 3rd.) |
| Hose |
To destroy or crash a system,
program, or hard drive |
| Host |
The computer that is sharing its
resources. (can also refer to individual PC on the internet or a
network) |
| Hot Linking |
This is when a website displays a graphic, but
instead of having it on their own servers with the site, it is pulled
from someone else's server. A very unethical and unpopular
practice. |
| Hot swap |
To replace a piece of computer
equipment without turning it off |
| Hub |
Junction place for servers, and/or
computer to the server. |
| HUD |
Heads Up Display - Computer
simulation overlay on graphic display |
| Hypertext |
A type of text that allows users to
'attach' files, or links to other web sites to it. |
A |
B | C | D | E
| F | G-H | I-K |
L | M | N-O | P |
Q-R | S | T | U-V |
W | Y-Z
I - K
| Ickey Pick |
Multi strand fibre cable (named for
stickey jell inside casing) |
| Icon |
Little picture on a computer screen
or window linked to a program or command. |
| Infosurf |
To look for information and news on
the internet |
| Image |
To copy a disk by byte and sector,
rather than just the files. |
| In the wild |
Virus terminology. Means that the
virus has been distributed to the public, rather than only viruses that
have been written as instructional tools, or testing situations. |
| Inkjet |
Printer type where ink is sprayed
on to the paper through tiny holes or jets. |
| Initialise |
To start up, when referring to
disks it means to format them so they can be used. |
| Inney Files |
Slang for files with extension
*.ini, they are files that contain settings and Configurations. |
| Interlaced |
Refers to how a monitor displays
information. Interlaced means the projection is shown in rows of pixels
(dots of light), each row is redrawn separately. This makes for lower
quality than non-interlaced which refreshes each pixel
independently. |
| Internal
Command |
A command/function, that is part of
the running OS, program, shell, or kernel (ex. dir is internal to DOS's
command.com shell) |
| Interrupt |
Setting the computer looks for that
manages "who" the processor talks to. ex. If you press the escape key,
printing stops. The keyboard 'interrupted the print processing. |
| Interface |
Just means basically 2 devices
communicating with each other (and how they do). Can refer to type of
system being used to interact with the computer (keyboard, mouse,
scanner, etc.) |
| I/O |
Input Output (Type a letter =
input, print the letter = output), but can also refer to more complex
instructions that the computer uses internally to process information
and where in memory the process is to occur. (I/O address = A020) |
| Java |
Programming language common on the
internet (works with multiple OS platforms) |
| Jazz (drive) |
Special type of drive and disk that
can be hooked to a computer. Holds either 1 Gb or 2 Gb on data and
programs. (Similar to the Zip drives) |
| J peg |
Type of graphic file format. |
| Jump |
On the internet, this is a link to
a different 'page' or another web site. |
| Jump |
In visual languages, A button, or
link to a different program, or function. |
| Kernel |
The main instruction set of the
computers operating system (loaded into memory) |
A |
B | C | D | E
| F | G-H | I-K |
L | M | N-O | P |
Q-R | S | T | U-V |
W | Y-Z
L
| Lan Wan |
Type of networks (Local and Wide area) |
| Lamer |
Someone who steals stuff from others because
they are too lazy or don't know how to do it themselves. A person
who doesn't know much. A put down |
| Laptop |
Small computer that is portable and will run
on batteries. |
| Larva or Larval State |
Person who is not very computer literate
(derogatory slang used by crackers, hackers, and programmers, to refer
to a non-technician) |
| Launch |
To start a program |
| Laser Jet |
Type of printer where dry "ink dust" is
sprayed on paper then 'baked' on with heat |
| Link |
1. To share information from 1 program to
another, such a database report to a Word doc. Differs from embedding in
that if original is changed, then information is updated in 2nd
program. |
| Link |
2. Also refers to the actual files a computer
reads when starting a program from the start button in Windows 95 |
| Link |
3. An area in a WWW web page that clicking on
will take you to another web site. |
| Link |
4. To connect 2 computer together in order to
share information and resources. |
| Link Exchange |
When website "A" agrees to post a link to website
"B". In return site "B" posts a link back to website "A".
This is called a link exchange, and aids both sites by increasing their
site popularity, thus improving their rankings in the Search
Engine Results Pages. |
| Link Popularity |
A webmaster term referring to the number of 'other'
websites link to the webmasters site. The more places that link to
a site, make it more popular, and rank better in the search
engines. |
| Linux |
Computer operating system (generic clone of
the UNIX). The code and OS are free although distributors can package
install routines, add-ons and programs. Developed by Linus Trevoldi.
Popular with technical types. |
| Login / Logout |
Process of gaining access to networks, ISP's,
internet sites. Consists of typing in a user name, and a password - then
you are given access to various files, programs, etc. depending upon
your level of access permissions. |
| Loop |
Section of code that repeats over and over
(often checking for a particular condition), Often heard when a program
starts a set of instructions that it can not exit from, causing a
computer to lock up. |
| Lost clusters |
Areas of a hard drive which once contained
files, and even thought the files have been moved or deleted - the
information was not reported to the computers file system that this area
of the disk is now free to put new files here. |
| Lurk |
To log into news groups, or Chat Rooms and
only watch what others are saying (writing) without commenting yourself.
(A good idea for beginners) |
A |
B | C | D | E
| F | G-H | I-K |
L | M | N-O | P |
Q-R | S | T | U-V |
W | Y-Z
M
| Mac |
Networking term that refers to how equipment
communicates. Acronym for: Media Access Control |
| Macs |
Type of computer made by the Apple
Corporation. Different set-up, operating system, etc. and not compatible with IBM clones (PC) or their files and programs |
| Maggotbox |
derogatory term for a Macintosh
computer |
| Mail Bomb |
Method of sending so much email information
(either by the size of the message or the number of messages) that it
cause a computer to lock up or freeze when a person accesses their
email. Popular way of crashing internet sites by crackers. |
| Man pages |
Manual pages are electronic replications of
documents from UNIX / Linux technical manuals, and documentation. |
| Map (Map a drive) |
Assigning a drive letter to another computer,
drive, or directory on a network. |
| Martian |
Slang for packets delivered to wrong address
- or have invalid addresses |
| Master |
Usually refers to the primary disk/drive that
a computer boots from. (see: Slave) |
| Max it out |
To put everything that will fit onto a
computer, upgrade everything, fill in all RAM banks, assign all IRQ's to
devices, fill all IDE/PCI slots, use all the ports, etc. |
| Media |
Type of disk, or tape that information is
stored on (i.e.. CD, Tape, Floppy) |
| Memory Manager(s) |
Software programs that address memory over
conventional 640 Kb. |
| Memphis |
Code name for the Windows 98 program
code |
| Mess DOS |
take off of MS DOS (many don't like the
limited single task ability) |
| Messy Ducks |
Program that loads the files to talk to your
computers CD ROM (mscdex.exe) |
| Microprocessor |
A processor (created with silicon and
transistor material) that is very small, and capable of directing,
calculating, and processing large amounts of information. |
| Mime |
Convention for categorizing various email
types (so Macintosh mail can be read by Lotus Notes, who can forward it
to a POP3 mail client, etc.) |
| Mirror (Sites) |
A server that contains duplicate database
structure of another site, can be used when original site contains a lot
of traffic - or goes down. |
| Mirror (disks) |
Technology that duplicates one disk on to
another (RAID), or an image of the disk as a file (various software
packages) |
| Mod |
Moderator or Moderate.
1. A moderator is a person who
runs a message board on a forum.
2. To moderate (change) hardware or
a piece of equipment to make it work faster and better. |
| Modem |
Equipment for a computer that lets it talk to
other commuters over telephone lines. |
| mod |
1. A term used in php, cgi, and perl language web page development,
means to modify an existing script to your particular needs.
2. In
general to "Modify" a computer from its original
configuration. |
| Moderator |
Person who monitors chat rooms or message
board (sites) to ensure that it is not used improperly (adults using
harsh language on teen or children's chat areas). They have more
access rights to the server, and can ban or remove users. |
| Mother Board |
The "Main" board inside a computer case that
connects all the other components. |
| Mouse |
The little hand size device with button's
used to control computer functions |
| Mozilla |
Code name for the Netscape / Communicator
program code. |
| MPEG |
Technology for viewing video (both hardware,
and software) |
| Mud |
Multi User Domain (or Dungeon) server space
used by multiple users to play games against one another over the
internet. |
| Multi-Tasking |
Being able to do 2 things at one time:
printing a letter with your word processor, while you are adding names
to your database program, or playing a computer game |
A |
B | C | D | E
| F | G-H | I-K |
L | M | N-O | P |
Q-R | S | T | U-V |
W | Y-Z
N - O
| Native Format |
The default format an application
creates a file in when file is saved. |
| Netscape |
Company that makes popular internet
browser |
| Networked |
Group of computers hooked together
that can share information and programs |
| Net, "The" |
The Internet |
| Netiquette |
Proper behaviour on a network or
internet (not using foul language, etc.) |
| Newbie |
Someone who is just learning the
internet or computer (a new user) |
| Newscasters |
Special internet browsers that are optimised
for downloading and viewing information from news, sports,
current event sites; where information is updated often. (ex. PointCast,
Netscape newscast, MS Channel browser.) |
| Newsgroup |
A 'public bulletin board' where
people can 'post' questions, answers, and comments. Looks and works a
lot like email, but can be read by everyone. |
| Node |
Connection address on a network
(can be computer, printer, etc.) |
| Notebook |
Small 'laptop' computer, named for
its size. |
| Nuke |
To delete complete directories or
drives without trying to save individual files. |
| Octal (octet) |
Numbering system that uses 8
places/digits for addressing - used in IP addressing |
| Octopus |
Person who has a general
understanding of many computer technologies, (i.e.. hardware, programming,
configurations, etc.), but not an expert in any 1 area. |
| Off the Hook |
Means really good or really hot. ex: this
new video game is really "off the hook" man. |
| Ole' |
Slang for acronym OLE: Object
Linking and Embedding - sharing information between programs, (ex.
putting a spread sheet in a document) |
| Operating
System |
Special software that translates
human input (keyboard, mouse, etc.) into the 1's and 0's that a computer
understands, and allows users to create and save information. |
| Optimise |
To remove or clean files, and
adjust settings (configurations) so that PC runs as fast and error free
as hardware will permit. |
| Orphans |
Left over files no longer needed by any
programs installed. Usually refers to dll files left after program is
deleted. |
| Overclock |
.. or "over-clocking". means
to run the computers cpu or processor faster than it was intended.
By using the bios / cmos a person can 'force' the computer to run at
faster cycle times than it was intended. Caution: This will cause
excess heat to build up in the processor, and can destroy the entire cpu
(central processing unit). Users who do this often use fans or
water cooled systems to off-set this. NOT a recommended procedure. If you are doing this, then you're wasting your time
on this little page of the web. |
A |
B | C | D | E
| F | G-H | I-K |
L | M | N-O | P |
Q-R | S | T | U-V |
W | Y-Z
P
| Pack 'a Bells |
Derogatory term for Packard Bell
computers that were known to have a lot of buttons and programs, but
quality of computer was poor. |
| Packet |
A "chunk" or bit of information
tied together to be sent or received over a network or internet. Often
these packets are then "re-assembled" once they arrive at their
destination, to re-form the original file. |
| Page Ranking
(pr) |
A method of rating web-sites and pages that the
Google Search Engine uses. The higher a page or site 'ranks', the
better it will show up when a person searches for a particular page or
term. ex: If site "A" has a pr of "2" - and site "B" has a pr of
"7" - and both sites have similar content, then site "B" may show up on
the first page for a particular search term or phrase, while site "A"
may not show up until page 5. Google ranks pages on a scale of 0 -
10. The "pr" can be located on the Google
Toolbar. |
| Page Views |
Term used when discussing the
number of visitors a web site has. A page view is the number of
actual pages that were viewed by a surfer. Often, web designers
will try to inflate the importance of a site by using the term "Hits",
this refers to number of files used.
Unique visitors and actual page views are the numbers that actually
mean anything to a true web design professional. |
| Pans |
Pretty Awesome New Stuff
(teleconferencing, infer-red, voice recognition, etc.) |
| Parity |
A redundant way of checking
information validity (usually odd, or even), by setting aside a 'bit' to
1 or 0 to validate the preceding 7 bits of information thus creating a
byte. Often used in communication, and older memory checking. |
| Paperweight |
A computer that doesn't get used.
(some one bought one only for the prestige) |
| Parallel Port |
Typically used for printers: this
type of communication transfers all 8 'bits' that it takes to make a
'byte', or character at one time |
| Partition |
A portion of a hard drive. Active
partition meaning drive C:, and extended more precisely the logical
partitions contained in the extended) partitions can be different drive
letters on the same disk. |
| Paste |
To copy something in Windows from 1
application to another. |
| Patch |
Code written after a program is
released, usually fixes minor flaws, and bugs or adds extended
functionality or program enhancements. You install a patch to
'update' a program or operating system in order to fix a flaw, or
possible vulnerability. |
| Patch cord (Patch
cable) |
Wire that connects computer to drop
(or wall outlet); wire that connects 2 devices. |
| Path |
The folders or directories your
computer will look in when you want to execute a command. (often defined
in the Autoexec.bat) |
| PC |
Generic term for Personal Computer,
usually refers to the IBM clones, where computers made by Apple
(Macintosh) are called Macs. |
| Peer to Peer |
Type of network where computers
share files and resources without a server. |
| Peripheral |
Piece of equipment attached to a
computer |
| Pentium |
Type of computer processor.
Original Pentiums ranged from 60 - 166 in speed, then the MMX Pentiums
ranged from 166 - 266, and now the Pentium II's range from 200 - ?? (in
spring of 98 it was 333) |
| Phrack (er) |
Breaking into secure systems that
are not public domain. |
| Piggy-Back |
To connect one 'add-on' device to
another in a manner that they share processing time and
interrupts. |
| Pilot |
Popular hand-held computer made by
USR / 3 Com |
| Ping |
To request information from another
computer (address, etc.) using special software to send out a message
that gets echoed back with information. Packed Internet Gopher - the
response is called a Pong. |
| Pinhead |
Computer Nerd |
| Pipes |
Special control characters that
limit how a command will act. A command or program calls a file - sends
it through the pipe - and the limits or instructions dictate the out
put. ("type me.doc | more" displays contents of me.doc 1 screen at a
time) |
| PK Zip |
Special software: can compress
large files into a small file with special algorithms |
| Platform |
Type of operating system a computer
is using. DOS platform, vs. UNIX platform. |
| Playpen |
Computer R&D department where
new technology is developed or programs written. Common slang with game
development companies. |
| Plug and Play
(PnP) |
Refers to late 90's technology were
software and hardware talk to one another so if a user adds a device, it
sets its self up automatically when installed. |
| Point (Point and
Click) |
Using a mouse to move the arrow (or
cursor) to desired place on computer screen. |
| POP |
Post Office Protocol - one way a
home PC gets the email from the ISP. |
| Pop Server |
Type of network server that
provides e-mail, more robust than SNMP |
| Pop Up |
An extra window that opens over top
of your web-page you are trying to view. Usually trying to sell
you something, or re-direct you to another site. |
| Pop Under |
Same as pop up, only it pops up
UNDER the window you are looking at. |
| Pop the (board, HD,
RAM) |
To take the computer apart and
remove an item |
| Port |
Connection place on a computer (or
other hardware) that information can be sent 'in and out of' to other
equipment or devices. |
| Portable |
Program that is capable of being
run in multiple environments (UNIX, Windows, DOS) |
| Ported |
Program that is converted from one
platform to another (ex: Windows to Linux) |
| Post |
To 'send' a message, question or
answer to a BBS or newsgroup |
| Post |
Can also be an acronym for 'Power
On Self Test' that computers run through. |
| Pots |
Telephone: (Plain Old Telephone
System) Slang about failures of new technology to be dependable (pagers,
Teleconferencing, e-mail, cell phones, etc.) (see Pans) |
| Power User |
Person who gets a lot out of a
computer, configure manually, run multiple apps, etc. |
| pr |
See "Page Ranking" |
| Primary
Partition |
The part of the Hard Disk that is
used to start the computer. (Can be more than 1 - but only one primary
boot partition can be active at a given time) |
| Processor |
Part of the computer: brain (chip,
or transistors in early days) that directs and processes information,
often called the CPU in IBM clone computers. |
| Profile |
The access, passwords, settings,
etc. networks establish for users when they login |
| proggy |
Slang for Program |
| props |
Not limited to the computer field,
it is a term of showing appreciation, or complimenting someone.
"He really deserves his props for that program" |
| Protocol |
An agreed upon standard (or
configuration) that allows computers to communicate. |
| Provider |
The company you use to 'get on to'
the internet as it 'provides' internet access. |
| Pseudo Code |
Code written in layman's terms
(programmers tool for organization) |
| Public Domain |
Available to anyone who wants it
(Usually refers to software, files, or computers that do not require
passwords or fees.) |
| Puck |
Special mouse with multiple
programmable buttons, often used with CAD programs. |
| Pull a Z (or few
Z's) |
To catch a catnap during a very
long session of using the computer. Either writing a program, working on
the internet, or debugging.) |
| Punch (Punch it
up) |
1. Pull up information on a monitor i.e.. network or internet site. 2 Upgrade a computer |
A |
B | C | D | E
| F | G-H | I-K |
L | M | N-O | P |
Q-R | S | T | U-V |
W | Y-Z
Q - R
| Que |
Refers to where information waits until it
can be processed. Keyboard, (input) and printers (output). |
| Rad |
Short for radical, usually meaning cutting
edge technology, top of the line or new. |
| Raid |
Usually refers to Network servers, where 2nd
and 3rd disks and technology are used to back up drives that contain
data. If one drive fails, RAID can recreate what was on the disk that
went bad. |
| Ram |
Part of the computer that remembers (while
the computer is running), however, it must be saved to a disk before the
computer is turned off or it gone. Also where programs are loaded when
you start particular program. |
| Raster |
Bitmapped' image comprised of many dots
(TV's, Monitors, Graphic files, etc.) |
| Register |
This is sort of an address book for memory
(if you see fatal errors at: AX 01 BX 00 etc. this is usually either a
register dump of the address the error occured, or where the program
wanted to write to) |
| Registry |
Database of programs and settings used by
Windows (versions 95 and higher store even more information here) -
current settings like screen color, icons, type of hardware used, etc.
(versions 3.x used ini files for alot of this info) |
| Reciprocal Link |
When to websites agree to post links to each other
somewhere on their respective sites. They are said to be
exchanging "reciprocal links". i.e. a "Link Exchange" |
| Recycle Bin |
Special program (with Windows 95, NT 4, or
higher) that remembers files that have been deleted, so they can be
recovered later. |
| Redundancy |
Practice of making backups, installing 2nd
line of communication, adding disk mirrors, or replicating information
to 2nd machine, in case 1 system fails - nothing is lost or down. |
| Refresh rate |
Refers to how often (or fast) a monitor
redraws the image on the screen. |
| Rendering |
Creation of a 3-D image by creating a
skeleton (called wire frame), then covering it with color and
texture. |
| Router |
Network hardware: creates connection between
2 of the same types of networks (Banyan / Token Ring, or Netware /
Ethernet, etc.). Used to "route" or direct information from 1 area
(network) to another. |
| Run-Time |
Special program translator bundled with
software that allows translator to "Run" the program code, but does not
support any further enhancement, or changes to it. Used with translators
rather than compilers. |
| Run-Time |
Can also be libraries, threads, calls,
functions that programs use during operation. |
A |
B | C | D | E
| F | G-H | I-K |
L | M | N-O | P |
Q-R | S | T | U-V |
W | Y-Z
S
| Sandbox |
Computer R&D department where
new technology is developed and tested. |
| Scaleable |
Capable of being upgraded to next
technology, or version without replacing a lot of hardware, or rewriting
code. |
| Scan |
Search a computer for viruses using
software programs. |
| Scan /
Scanner |
Piece of computer equipment that
can copy (scan) a picture or document and turn it into a file. |
| Scandisk |
Program that checks your disks for
errors and fixes them. |
| Schoolie |
Person who studied computer in
classroom, but has no experience or ability |
| Scooter |
A search engine robot that searches the Internet and catalogues web
pages. |
| Screamer |
A computer with all the latest
technology, very fast |
| Screen saver |
Special program that runs graphical
images on your monitor when the keyboard or mouse have not been used for
a certain amount of time. Help avoid an image being burned in to the
monitor causing a ghost like background. |
| Script |
Multiple commands embedded in 1
program or file. Windows equivalent to batch files. Often used to
facilitate multiple installations of the same type. |
| Script
Kiddies |
People who find other peoples
viruses and send them or embed them in their web pages. Usually a
person who doesn't know how to do it them selves. |
| Scroll |
To move around in Windows by using
the mouse, and window bars and buttons. |
| Scuzzi |
slang for the acronym SCSI - type
of drive, or add on interface. |
| Seat |
A single computer 'workstation' on
a network, often used to discuss how network software is licensed. |
| Secure server |
A server that supports encryption
technology: depending your browser, version, and access type, the
information you send is then encrypted into 'gibberish' while being
transferred - then translated back to readable format once it reaches
its destination. |
| Semaphore |
An "inter-process communication"
signal that informs threads when to (and not to) access system resources
and files. |
| Sequel |
"SQL" or Structured Query Language,
method of 'questioning' relational database. SQL is an agreed upon
standard very popular with Mainframe databases, and Client / Server
applications |
| Serial Port |
Computer connection that transfers
information 1 'bit' at a time (see parallel port), such as a modem or
mouse. |
| Session |
A time on the internet. Goes back
to the days when mainframes needed to create 'sessions' for each user to
share resources and processor time |
| Shadow |
A hidden log in account (or
back-door) on a UNIX system. |
| Shareware |
Programs you can download from the
internet that request you send money if you use more than a particular
time. Often smaller, limited use programs. |
| Shell |
Software used for communication
between the user and the Operating System: DOS / Dosshell, Windows /
Program Manager, System 7 / Finder, etc. |
| Shop |
Refers to the physical local
network - an NT shop is a network running NT |
| Shortcut |
New name for the Icons in Windows
95 |
| Shrinkware |
Software purchased over the shelf
through the store. |
| Shunt |
The little 'Jumper' used to connect
2 pins on a computer board or device. |
| Sis iny
(system.ini) |
Slang for the system.ini file -
used by windows to define computer settings. |
| Site |
A particular computer address you
'look' at when you browse the web |
| Slam |
To beat a computer game |
| Slasher |
New video and audio compression
technology often used in games. |
| Slave |
Usually refers to a second
disk/drive in a computer (using ISA bus) where 1 drive is designated as
the master, or primary that the computer looks to when starting, and a
second drive shares some internal resources, but must be made a slave to
be used. |
| Slot |
Place to plug in additional 'add-on
cards' for games, sound, modems. |
| Smash the
stack |
Program that corrupts or steals
memory (or runs code beyond valid addresses) |
| Snail mail |
The regular 'Post Office' method of
sending paper mail (see email) |
| Sniffer |
Card and software used to diagnose
networks (by Network General, but other companies make competitive
brands) |
| Sockets |
A package of sub-routines, or layer
of protocols used to provide access and communication methods to higher
level protocols (TCP/IP) winsock.dll is the most common to home
PCs. It is an "end-point" where two programs or interfaces
communicate to one another. |
Spam
or
Spamming |
To send email globally (ex: TO:
*@aol.com and everyone with email at AOL gets it - often used as
advertising gimmick) The tons of mass email you get everyday from
people you don't know. |
| Spider |
A program used by search groups
that checks their registered sites for updates. |
| Spider Web |
Group of unorganised wires. Often
refers to the mess of wiring that can occur in the back of a computer
after adding on a lot of peripherals. |
| Spike |
Electric 'surge' usually of high
volt / amp that can damage equipment |
| Split the
Thread |
Meaning to leave a topic. Such as a
message board or forum, where the author has lost interest in the topic,
and won't be back to read any updates. ex: I'm splitting this
thread cos you guys got off topic. |
| Spoofing |
Sending email (or other information) by
deceptive means. Usually using another computers identity.
Example: Sending an email and making it appear that it did not come from
the originator, but rather another persons computer. |
| Spooler |
A holding area for printing, that
organizes what gets printed when, and how fast. |
| Spreadsheet |
Computer program set-up like graph
paper. Information is put into each 'block' (called a cell). Program is
very good at doing math calculations. |
| Stack |
A contiguous area of memory |
| Stack |
A combination of TCP/IP protocols,
and Windows Sockets (winsock.dll) that allow computer to communicate
over the internet/network. |
| Stand Alone |
A computer that is not hooked up to
a network |
| Star dot Star shown
(*.*) |
A way of defining EVERYTHING (all
characters before and after the "." |
| Stemming |
Using variations of words. An
example would be to place keywords within an html document that
describes a Bear (bear, bare,) |
| Sticks |
RAM (Computer memory: refers to
circuit boards vs. chips) |
| Streaming |
New computer / internet technology
that allows users to view (usually video, or audio) files AS they are
downloaded to a computer, rather than having to wait until the whole
file is sent and re-assembled. (Video Streaming) |
| Stuff- it |
Software program that compresses
files (used in Macintosh platform) |
| Sub-System |
A system in a computer (or network)
that works independently of the main systems, is not critical to run the
main system, but its self needs the main system to work. (ex. a special
sound set-up on a PC) |
| Surf (i.e. Surf the
Web) |
To get on and look around, visit
different computer sites |
| Swap File |
Special file on hard drive that
hold information that overflows from Ram/memory |
| Switches |
method of controlling outcome of a
command (ex: dir /w changes a directory listing from 1 scrolling column
to a list displayed in 4 columns) |
| Switches |
Special Internet or network
computers or hardware that direct traffic, and route information to the
proper address. |
| Sys-Op (sysop) |
Slang for System Operator, usually
the manager of a network, bbs or internet site. |
| System 7 (7.5, 8,
8.5, etc.) |
Operating system for Macintosh
computers (similar to Windows) |
A |
B | C | D | E
| F | G-H | I-K |
L | M | N-O | P |
Q-R | S | T | U-V |
W | Y-Z
T
| T 1 (or T3, T10,
etc) |
Special type of wiring used to
connect multiple computers or networks (very fast) |
| Tags |
Often heard in the Web page
programming area - tags define the type of formatting that HTML is doing
to the text and pictures displayed in your browser. |
| Task Bar |
Windows 95/98/2000/NT4/XP bar (with Start Button)
that acts as a central control panel for the OS. |
| Tech (or Tek) |
Person who can fix or configure a
computer (usually refers to professional) |
| Telecommunication |
Using computer video/audio
communication technology to both talk, and view video through computer
monitor, camera, video, phone, etc. |
| Telnet |
program/protocol used for one
computer to talk to another computer. Translates your command to telnet
server who translates it to language that host computer/OS understands.
Allows remote PC to run programs. |
| Terminator |
A device that 'caps off' a network
line, and says this is the end go back to the beginning. Also needed
with some bus technology (SCSI) that says this is the last device -
return to sender) |
| The Box |
Information Technology (replacing
the term IS for Information Systems) |
| Thread |
On a PC this is an instruction
that's part of a program (ie. spell check, print, etc.) |
| Three finger
salute |
To restart the computer by pressing
the Ctrl, Alt, and Delete keys all at the same time. Gets its title by
users using 1 hand to hit all three keys at the same time |
| Tickle |
Slang for a computer sending data
to other computers or devices (even its own) in order to get information
on what is available. The start-up program "tickled" the CD drive and
found it by its self. |
| Tight |
A well written program that runs
quickly with no problems |
| Toast |
1. A computer that doesn't work
anymore 2. To delete something |
| Token / Token
Ring |
Type of network layout where
information circulates around a "ring" until it reaches the designated
destination, using a carrier called a token. |
| Topology |
Layout of all computers, equipment,
cables, and links on network. Various layers of a topology define how
communication, procedures, hardware etc., are related to or work with a
network |
| Tracks |
Concentric circles (area) on a disk
that store information (similar to groves on album) |
| Trackball |
Pointing device with large ball
(usually manipulated by thumb) used to move mouse arrow around. Option
to standard mouse. |
| Traffic |
Amount of information being
requested, or sent on network servers, or internet sites. More
information being transferred = more traffic = slower speed for the
users. |
| Trash |
To destroy, or delete |
| Tray |
Small area in Windows 95 where
clock, and loaded program icons reside. |
| Tree |
Graphical display of a hierarchical
file system (DOS, UNIX, Windows, etc.) |
| TSR's |
Programs that are loaded into
memory in a manner that they stay running, and in memory until the
computer is turned off. (ex. Virus monitoring programs, some screen
savers, network communication programs, etc.) |
| Twisted Pair |
Type of wire used to carry
information. (Telephones, and computers both use twisted pair wiring to
transfer information) - the wire can be shielded (STP) or unshielded
(UTP) |
A |
B | C | D | E
| F | G-H | I-K |
L | M | N-O | P |
Q-R | S | T | U-V |
W | Y-Z
U - V
| Uplink |
To establish communication FROM a
computer system TO a satellite. |
| Upload |
To transfer files from the computer
you're on to another one (server or internet) |
| Vax |
Type of large computer that other
computers connect to and form a network |
| Vector |
Graphic image file that uses lines
and mathematical equations to form the picture. (ie. AutoCAD
files) |
| Veronica |
Type of search on the internet to
find or store information. (Gopher tool) |
| Video
Streaming |
Method of transmitting visual
information over the internet where information is displayed as it is
being transmitted rather than waiting until a large files is
downloaded. |
| Vines |
Virtual Networking Software. A
special version of UNIX, System V NOS (where UNIX is hidden or
transparent to applications) and Vines handles communications and
protocols. Strong LAN/WAN, and multi-processing capability |
| Virus |
computer instructions (code) that
attaches itself to a program with the intent to cause harm - can range
from annoying to destroying information. |
| Virtual
Memory |
Method of setting aside a file on a
hard drive for use as memory (see swap file) |
| VR (Virtual
Reality) |
Refers to how real and 3
dimensional games, and internet technology have become. |
| VR (Voice
Recognition) |
New digital technology that allows
software to translate spoken commands (Analog) to computer language ,
input or commands. (digital). |
A |
B | C | D | E
| F | G-H | I-K |
L | M | N-O | P |
Q-R | S | T | U-V |
W | Y-Z
W
| Wait Time |
The lag time between a request
being sent until it's received by computer. (or time it takes for a
program to load) |
| Wallpaper |
Background picture displayed by
Windows |
| Warm Boot |
Restart a PC by pressing the Ctrl,
Alt, and Delete keys (not turning off the power.) |
| Warez |
Sites dedicated to recovering lost
install keys, or cracking bootleg install keys. |
| Weak |
Older computer still being used but
outdated and slow |
| The Web (or
W3) |
The Internet |
| Webbin' |
Surfing, or browsing the
internet. |
| Webmaster |
Person who manages an internet
site, may design pages, direct traffic, assign access permissions, and
establish accepted protocols and procedures etc. |
| Web page |
A file that is formatted in a way
that it can be read by a 'browser' and available on an internet server.
Specifically web pages are ASCII text files with tags (or definitions)
in them that make them readable by browsers |
| Whack |
To 'cut' or save a web page,
picture, piece of code, file, etc. |
| White Hat
(hackers) |
Computer hackers who access
computers and configurations in an attempt to 'fix' or improve problems
and configurations. *see hacker vs. cracker |
| White Space |
Area on a printed page (or screen)
that does not contain text, or graphics. |
| WHOIS |
Internet program that returns
information about entities in a domain. |
| Window |
A block or frame that a program,
group of icons, or other information sits in. This can be moved around
the screen, minimized, maximized to fill the whole screen, or sized to
preference. This is the core technology behind Graphical
Environments. |
| Windows |
Operating system that uses
graphical interface (mouse point and click) instead of typed commands as
in DOS (Refined and marketed by Microsoft Corp.) |
| WinDOZE |
Derogatory slang for the Microsoft Windows
OS - often heard in the Linux community |
| Win ini |
The win.ini file for Windows
systems. Defines users settings (colours, etc.) |
| Wired |
Connected to the internet (also a
computer magazine) |
| Window of
Death |
The blue screen Windows jumps to
when it can't handle program errors |
| Wizzy Wig |
Refers to acronym WYSIWYG that
means the screen displays exactly as a printed copy - "What You See, Is
What You Get" |
| Word
Processor |
Computer program used mainly to
type documents, letters, memos, etc. Often has additional capabilities
such as spell checking, graphics, etc. |
| Workstation |
Computer hooked up to a
network |
| Worm |
A type of computer virus that
reproduces itself to occupy memory and disk space. Worms thrive more in
network environments where viruses are usually PC based. |
| Worm |
A Type of CD Writer (can 'Write
Once, and Read Many) |
| Wrap |
Term used when a port or
connection denies the information (or request) to continue to pass
through to the rest of the network, and sends it back to the originating
device. Used to protect overall integrity from invalid requests,
commands, or packets.) |
| Write Protect |
making a file (or entire disk) so that it can
be read, but not changed. This can be done with tabs and stickers on
floppy disk, and with attribute software. |
| XP |
Microsoft operating system released
in late 2001. |
A |
B | C | D | E
| F | G-H | I-K |
L | M | N-O | P |
Q-R | S | T | U-V |
W | Y-Z
Y - Z
| Y2K (problem) |
"Year 2000" A problem with how
computers will deal with dates. See Year 2000 |
| Yahoo |
A web site with a program/database to
search the internet for information |
| Year 2000 |
Problem that involves how computers
remember the date. If a computer only remembers the last 2 digits of the
year, then when it gives that date to the operating system or program, it
may think the year 2000 is actually 1900. While a lot of lip service
was given to this issue, it proved to be more talk than problem. |
| Zap |
To delete a file, directory, or
drive |
| Zines |
Refers to news (as in magazines)
often seen as e-zine (no adds, just news). Internet news sources |
| Zip Drive |
Type of storage disk and drive that
connects to a computer. Holds 100 Mb per disk, while Jazz drive hold 1 Gb
of data. |
| Zip it |
To use a compression program to make
a file (or files) smaller |
| *word* |
found in FAQ's and RFC's and other
simple text files that do not support rich text. the 2 *'s signify the
word between them is emphasized (as if they were in bold or italic
type) |
|
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