Where you can save and change your account/personal information on a device or website, generally indicated with a cog icon.

Hardware and software that can meet a wide range of access needs to enable you to use your computer and access the internet. Also known as assistive technology.

A text field in a narrow, horizontal space at the top of a web browser window. It is used to display the URL/website address.

Software that can cause pop-up and banner adverts in order to generate revenue for its author or publisher. It’s not necessarily used in a malicious way.

Virtual assistant technology developed by Amazon. It is capable of voice interaction and responds to requests, such as playing music and audio books, making to-do lists, setting alarms, checking the weather, and providing news and other useful information.

Prevents unwanted adverts from popping up, tracking your activities or scanning your computer for personal information (see spyware).

A type of program designed and developed to protect computers from malware like viruses, computer worms and spyware. The software will scan, detect and remove viruses from your computer.

(see Mac)

(applications)

Computer programs usually downloaded onto a mobile device.

Refers to sound, usually when recorded, transmitted or reproduced.

An internet security firm that provides a ‘hack check’.

Virtual characters or icons to represent users online.

Wireless technology for exchanging data over short distances with devices, such as computers, cameras and mobile phones.

Refers to something or someone not being genuine or true.

(digital)

A method of saving a web page’s address on a computer and providing quick access for future use. Bookmarks are also known as favourites.

Short for ‘robot’. It is an automated malware program that runs over the internet.

A high-speed internet connection.

The middle key on the left of a computer keyboard. When it is selected, the computer types letters in upper case.

A slang term for someone who deceives a person with a false identity online, often to seduce them.

Describes the activity of a catfish.

A type ofweb browser run by Google, indicated by a red, yellow, green and blue circle.

CIA is an acronym for ‘confidentiality, integrity, availability’. A cyber security model that is used to guide organisations in keeping data secure.

A text version of the spoken words of television, video, computer presentation or movie content. Closed captioning was developed to aid hearing-impaired people.

An internet-based storage facility on an external server. It allows people and organisations to save and share photos, documents and files.

Enables computer users to back up data on their hard drive to a remote cloud-based server. When cloud backup is selected, it will automatically save files for you.

The software infrastructure for a cloud computing system. It has applications for the user to create and manage their own accounts.

The outer shell of the computer that houses the computer components.

What you can physically touch. For example, your laptop.

Digitally installed programs that tell the computer what to do. For example, your search engine.

A malicious software program loaded on to a user’s computer without the user’s knowledge. It is designed to damage your computer by corrupting files and destroying data.

A consumer’s legal rights when engaging in trade, including digital transactions.

Cortana is Microsoft’s virtual assistant. It uses the Bing search engine to perform tasks such as setting reminders and answering questions.

A movable indicator on a computer screen. It is usually a vertical straight line that flashes.

The digital culture of computers, information technology and virtual reality that is the computer-generated simulation of a three-dimensional image or environment.

(See cyber crime)

A criminal activity using computers and the internet. This includes downloading illegal music files, hacking bank accounts and stealing money or data, and creating and distributing computer viruses. Cyber crime is also known as a cyber attack.

The application of technologies, processes and controls to protect systems, networks, programs, devices and data from cyber attack.

(computer)

Information processed or stored on a computer.

How data is transmitted through the internet.

The process of safeguarding important information from corruption, compromise or loss.

A personal computer that sits on a desk. It has a separate monitor/screen and keyboard. The hard drive usually sits under the desk.The term also refers to a computer location where we can store data/files. It’s usually on the computer screen.

A camera that produces digital images that can be stored in a computer and displayed on a screen.

To copy data or files from one computer system to another, usually over the internet.

A TV set without smart capabilities or internet connection. However, set-top boxes or streaming sticks can add this.

An electronic version of a book that can be read on a computer or a handheld device such as a Kindle.

A type ofweb browser run by Microsoft, indicated by a blue ‘e’ icon.

Messages distributed by electronic means from one computer user to another individual or group, through a network.

Technology companies that have created a tool to allow users to send and receive emails. For example, Yahoo, Google or Microsoft.

Information or data converted into a code to prevent unauthorised access.

A key located in the middle-right or the keyboard, used to execute a command, confirm a selection or create a new line while typing. The Enter key is also known as the return key.

A way of connecting computers together in a local area network (LAN).

A type of file format indicated by ‘.exe’ at the end of a document title. It is a file that executes a command or runs a programme when clicked. It is commonly used when downloading software or applications.

An online social networking website where people can create profiles and share information with others.

A system that allows you to make video calls on an iPhone or other Apple device.

Facial recognition is a way of confirming your identity using your face. Your phone or other device scans your face before giving you access.

An acronym for ‘frequently asked questions’. FAQs are often found in help sections of web pages to provide answers to common queries.

(see bookmark)

A name used to identify a computer file stored on the computer system.

Defines the location of a file or folder in a computer’s file system.

Away to refine your search. For example, by location, colour, size or date.

A type ofweb browser run by the Mozilla Foundation, indicated by a fox and globe.

Software that prevents unauthorised access to a network.

The design and style of the lettering used in computer programs, such as Word. Examples include Arial, Calibri and Times New Roman.

A type of computer mouse that you use with your feet instead of your hand.

Intentional use of false or misleading information.

Freeview is the UK's free digital TV platform.

An online search service from Google that locates products and the stores where they can be purchased.

A web browser toolbar for Internet Explorer that has been developed by Google.

To search for information about someone or something on the internet, using a search engine, such as Google.

People who use computers to gain unauthorised access to data.

A physical document, such as a tax form, printed letter or textbook, as opposed to an electronic one.

The part of your computer that stores data.

The physical part of a computer that we can see and touch.

A set of headphones, typically with a microphone attached.

Illegal methods used to sell healthcare products or miracle cures that are not genuine.

(see live chat)

A form of user assistance designed to assist with the use of websites, software applications or operating systems.

The main page of a website. It usually provides links to all other sections of the website.

(See Wi-Fi hotspots)

(hypertext transfer protocol secure)

A procedure used to transfer data over the web. If the website address starts with ‘https://’then you are accessing a secure website.

A web address within a document or web page that you can click on to open a website. A hyperlink is usually indicated in blue.

A small symbol or image used to represent a company, program or function. Icons are often used instead of text to assist visual navigation.

The process used to uniquely identify a user of a system or application, typically with the use of usernames and passwords.

A type of fraud in which an attacker uses stolen personal information to impersonate another person.

A global area network that connects computers across the world.

(See online banking)

A type ofweb browser run by Microsoft, replaced in recent years by Edge.

A set of numbers that identifies your device and can be linked to your online activity.

(internet service provider)

The term used for the company that provides internet access on a computer.

(See spam)

A hardware device used for typing letters, numbers and other symbols.

Important words or phrases to help you search for information online.

A small, portable personal computer, often called a notebook.

A system of using character replacements in a standard word.

(See hyperlink)

An online customer service that allows you to type messages in real time to a customer service representative on a company’s website. Some websites offer this facility to provide customer support and help with information on products.

Also known as a LAN, this is a computer network that spans a relatively small area, such as a room, building or group of buildings.

The term used for a computer powered by an Apple Mac operating system.

(malicious software)

Programs designed to damage or perform unwanted actions on a computer system.

A small device that connects to a computer and allows you to store and copy information. Also known as a USB stick, pen drive or thumb drive.

A device that captures audio input. It can be built into a device or come as external hardware. This input can then be recorded, shared or processed by various software.

Word processing software developed by Microsoft that’s used for creating text documents, such as letters, forms and brochures.

A small, portable, wireless telephone that can be used to communicate over long distances. A mobile phone that connects to the internet is called a smartphone.

Receives information from your ISP through the phone lines, optical fibre or coaxial cable and converts it into a digital signal.

Computer hardware that displays the video and graphics information generated by a connected computer.

A hardware device connected to the computer that controls the pointer on the screen and is used to select items.

Electronic devices that can play MP3 digital audio files.

An American media-services provider that offers an online streaming library of films and television programmes. Access to this service is by subscription.

The part of a computer you press to switch the power on.

A method of banking in which transactions are conducted electronically over the internet.

Real-time communication with other people on the internet.

Virtual communities or groups of people with common interests. They use the internet to connect with one another.

Open-source is a type of computer software where the source code is made available free so others can use or adapt it

Software that communicates with hardware on your computer and allows other programs to run. Examples include Windows, macOS, iOS, Android and Linux.

An icon displayed in the web browser to indicate a secure mode when communications between browser and web server are encrypted.

A sequence of numbers used to gain access to online accounts or systems.

A secret word or combination of characters used to gain access to online accounts or systems.

An American company that operates a worldwide online payment system.

A personal computer that can fit on a single desk. Designed for use by one person at a time.

(portable document format)

This format is used to save files that cannot be modified but need to be easily shared and printed.

A piece of computer hardware that is added to a computer to expand its abilities. For example, a keyboard or a printer.

A fraudulent attempt at obtaining personal and sensitive information through deceptive emails and websites.

(personal identification number)

A numeric password used for authentication and access.

An electrical cable that connects an appliance to the mains electricity supply via a wall socket or extension.

An output device that prints paper documents, including text, images or both.

Information about a person or organisation. A Facebook Profile/Timeline refers to an individual’s personal account where they can post updates, upload photos and share videos.

A computer available for people to use in a public area. For example, a library or a school.

A type of malware that threatens to publish the victim's data, or perpetually block access to it, unless a payment is made.

Another term for real life, it relates to a physical presence and/or factual evidence.

(See Enter key)

A sexually explicit image or video posted on the internet without the consent of the person in the image or video.

A type of computer mouse that you operate with your fingertips.

Fraudulent schemes in which fraudsters fake romantic interest in their victims. The fraudster then usually manipulates their victim in to giving them money or property.

A small device that sits between your modem and computer. The router takes information from the modem and gives it to the computer.

A type of internet browser run by Apple, indicated by a compass icon.

A validation and encryption tool for websites. It is part of the https, which secures and encrypts data between the server and the client browser.

A dishonest and illegal plan to cheat someone out of something, usually money.

People who carry out harmful or illegal acts.

To use a scanner to convert paper documents into digital images.

A type of adaptive technology that reads screen content aloud, designed to assist people with visual impairments.

A rectangular field or bar, located within the web browser, where you type a word or piece of information you want to find.

A software system that is designed to carry out a web/internet search.

A search tool that lets users restrict their search to gain more specific results.

A type of computer or device connected to the internet. It provides services or resources to other computers.

The practice of demanding money or sexual favours from someone by threatening to reveal evidence of their sexual activity.

A key on the computer keyboard, indicated with an upwards arrow, that when pressed with other keys produces upper case letters or symbols, depending on the other key pressed.

Software that enables people to have conversations over the internet, wherever they are in the world.

Mobile phones that facilitate internet access and multimedia functionality.

An internet-connected television that streams programmes and films over the internet, alongside, or instead of, terrestrial broadcasts.

Refers to websites and applications designed to let people share content quickly with friends, groups or the public. For example, Facebook and Twitter.

The use of internet-based social media platforms to stay connected with friends, family or peers.

A set of instructions, data or programs required for computers to execute specific tasks. There are two main types: systems software and applications software.

Unsolicited email messages. These messages may contain advertising, harmful or suspicious content.

A program or option that allows unwanted emails to be blocked or restricted.

An audio output device.

Software that helps to gather information about a person or organisation without their knowledge.

An online locator service found on websites of businesses with multiple store locations.

What houses the internal components of a computer.

Part of the user interface that represents a section not currently shown on the screen. A tab can represent an open document, web page or section on a page. For example, multiple tabs in an internet browser represent the web pages you have open.

A portable computing device with a touch screen. An external device, such as a keyboard, can be attached.

Used often in social media to notify someone that they have been referred to in a post or photo.

(Twitter)

Where you see all the recent tweets shared by your friends and other people you follow.

Touch ID is a secure way to access your iPhone or iPad. It allows you to access your device with your fingerprint.

(See trackpad)

Touchpad or trackpad is a built-in device on a laptop to use instead of a mouse. It has a sensor that can translate the motion of your fingers to a position on the screen or to perform an action.

A screen operated by direct physical contact, without the need for keyboards or additional hardware.

A type of computer mouse where you roll a ball to position the onscreen pointer using your thumb, fingers or palm of the hand.

A touch-sensitive surface that allows you to interact with your laptop computer in the same way as a computer mouse.

The process of converting data from one format into another.

Malicious code disguised as, or contained within, software that looks legitimate. It can install hidden software to gain access to the users’ systems, usually to steal data or cause data loss.

A badge, image or logo found on a commercial website. It usually indicates that the site is a member of a professional organisation or has passed security tests. However, some images may not be genuine. If in doubt, contact the company for clarification.

(online)

A self-study or group activity designed to teach or discuss a specific learning outcome.

A free social networking service where users can publish text, images and videos as short posts known as tweets.

To put web pages, images and files on to a web server.

(uniform resource locator)

Used to specify addresses on the world wide web.

Part of your computer that allows you to plug in a USB connection to external hardware, such as a mouse, memory stick or mobile phone.

An identification used by a person with access to a computer, network or online service.

Proves that someone or something is true and exists.

An electronic medium for recording, copying, playback, broadcasting and display of moving visual images.

A phone call with an internet connection that transmits a live video of the person making the call. Also known as VoIP (voice over internet protocol).

Allows you to create a secure connection to another network over the internet.

F-Secure Connected Life has created a video that asks ‘What is a VPN?’

A computer-based online environment designed and shared by individuals so they can interact in a custom-built simulated world.

Software designed to be controlled by voice commands instead of keyboard input. It is a form of adaptive technology.

(See world wide web)

A software application for accessing information on the world wide web.

A video camera that streams an image or video through a computer to a computer network, such as the internet.  The camera can be attached to the monitor or may already be built into the computer.

Web-based email accounts. They are usually free accounts from websites such as Hotmail, Gmail and Yahoo mail.

A collection of publicly accessible and interlinked web pages on the world wide web shared by a single domain. Websites can be created and maintained by an individual, group, business or organisation.

(Wireless Fidelity)

A tool to connect electronic devices to the internet wirelessly.

A physical location where people can obtain internet access, typically using Wi-Fi technology, via a wireless local area network (WLAN). Public hotspots may be created by a business for use by customers. For example, in a coffee shop or hotel.

Windows Hello is a secure way to access your Windows 10 devices. It allows you to set up the sign-in to your account as a PIN number, fingerprint or as facial recognition.

Also known as a WAP, a hardware device on a local area network, which is connected to a wired router, switch or hub via an ethernet cable for enhanced Wi-Fi connection.

An electronic device that allows you to connect to the internet through a USB port on a computer or laptop, without using wires.

A printer that doesn’t require any cables to be connected to a computer but operates via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth technology typically.

A device that performs the functions of a router and also the functions of a wireless access point.

Any document or file you create when using Microsoft Word.

Any document or file you create when using Microsoft Word.

A collection of websites and web pages stored in web servers and connected to local computers through the internet. Commonly known as the web.

A standalone piece of malicious software that replicates itself in order to spread to other computers.

An online video-sharing platform.