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IT Glossary

Key Information Technology terms from the official DBE/MTN learner books (Grades 10–12, Theory & Practical), refined and expanded with wording from NSC exam memos, in one searchable list of 443 terms. Grade badges show where a term is introduced; a green NSC tag marks definitions taken from national marking guidelines. Type to filter, or jump by letter.

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Show: Gr 10 Gr 11 Gr 12 443 terms

A

abstracting12
To create an object and assign it to an object name
access control10
Any system designed to prevent and restrict access to users
access specifiers12
Is a defining code element that can determine which elements of a program are allowed to access a specific variable or other piece of data
accessory11
Any device or program added to a computer to perform an additional function, that is not required
active window11
The currently selected window
ad blocker10
A program that will remove different kinds of advertising from a web user's experience online
adware10
A type of virus that creates unwanted advertisements all over a user's computer
aggregator10
A website that provides you with the headlines and links to stories you might be interested in
algorithm10
An ordered list of steps used to accomplish a task or solve a problem
algorithmic structures10
Different structures and techniques that you can use to improve and simplify an algorithm
anomaly12
Something that deviates from what is standard, normal, or expected
API (application programming interface)12
A set of routines, protocols, and tools for building software applications
append1112
To open an existing file for writing, set the file pointer to the end of the file and allows you to add data to the file
AR (augmented reality)11
Sound, images and text are added (superimposed) into our natural world to create an enhanced user experience
archive1011
A term used to describe a file that contains multiple files that are usually compressed files
array101112
An array is a sequence of data items of the same type. It is made up of a list of other variables, such as strings or integers
artificial intelligence (AI)1012
The ability of a computer or machine to mimic human intelligence - for example to learn, reason, solve problems and make decisions.
ASCII (American Standard Code for Information Interchange)1011
A standard that represents text characters as numeric codes so they can be stored and processed by a computer.
assume1112
Supposed to be the case, without proof
asynchronous communication1011
A transmission technique commonly used by personal computers to connect to modems, printers, fax machines, modems, etc
atomic (database transaction)12
Atomic means data which cannot be divided further
attributes12
The data fields of the class
automation10
Refers to the use of automatic equipment to complete a job in a manufacturing business

B

bandwidth11NSC
The amount of data that can be sent over a network in a specific amount of time.
behaviour12
The code that provides the interaction with the attributes
benchmark10
A test that measures the performance of hardware, software or the computer
binary1011
It describes a numbering scheme in which there are only two possible values for each digit: 0 and 1
binary search1112
Is an algorithm used in computer science to locate a specified value (key) within an array
BIOS (basic input/output system)11
A set of computer instructions which control input and output operations
bit (b)10
The smallest unit of data in computing - a single binary digit that is either 0 or 1. Its symbol is a lowercase 'b'. Eight bits make up one byte.
bitcoins12
Digital money, used on the Internet for various services
BODMAS10
Brackets, Orders, Division, Multiplication, Addition and Subtraction
Boolean variable10
Contains only one of two values: TRUE or FALSE
boot11
The computer loads the operating system and checks that all the components of the computer are in good order
bps (bits per second)1011
The basic unit for measuring data transfer rate, or network speed: the number of bits sent per second. The 'b' is lowercase because it counts bits, not bytes.
browse10
Refers to reading and scanning through data
bubble sort1112
To compare adjacent elements
bus11
A communication system transferring data between components inside a computer, or between computers
byte (B)10
A group of 8 bits treated as a single unit, used to measure file size and storage. Its symbol is a capital 'B' (e.g. MB = megabytes). One byte = 8 bits.

C

cache memory11NSC
A small amount of high-speed memory located close to or on the CPU that stores frequently or previously accessed data and instructions, preventing a slower medium from slowing down a faster one.
caching11
A small, temporary form of storage that is created in a fast form of memory so that the data can be accessed more quickly
Caesar cipher1112
A substitution cipher on which each letter in plaintext is 'shifted' a certain number of places down the alphabet
calculated field12
The field that is calculated each time you run your query
capacitive (touchscreen)11
It senses the conductive properties of an object, usually the skin on your fingertip. A capacitive screen or smartphone usually have a glass face and does not rely on pressure. This makes it more responsive than a resistive screen when it comes to gestures such as swiping and pinching
catfishing12
When someone creates a fake online profile with the intention of deceiving someone else
Ceil1112
To round a real number up to the highest integer value
CHR1112
To return the corresponding character of an ASCII code
circular dependency1112
When two or more modules or components depend on each other, directly or indirectly, forming a loop.
client-server network10
A network setup that uses both clients and servers
clipboard10
A space designed specifically to store items that have been copied for a short time
clone1112
A computer that operates in a very similar way to the one that it was copied from
cloud computing12NSC
The use of shared resources that are offered as services over the internet to store, manage and process data.
codec11
Used to compress and decompress a video where the video files are too big
coding10
The process of assigning a code to something for classification or identification
communication device10
Any device that allows a computer to connect to a network and communicate with other computers on the network
CompareText1112
To compare two strings for equality, ignoring case
compiler11
It takes the entire source code and translates it into machine code before sending the instructions to the CPU
compiling10
Converting (a program) into a machine-code or lower-level form in which the program can be executed
compression10
Data compression is a method used to reduce the size of one or more files
computer virus11
A program, script or macro designed to cause damage, steal personal information, modify data, send emails, display messages or any combination of these
concatenates1112
To joins strings together into one result string
concise10
Giving a lot of information clearly and in a few words
conditional1112
A statement or structure (like IF) that only executes certain code when a specified condition is true.
conditionals10
Tell a program to execute different actions depending on whether a condition is true or false
container11
A set of files that stores information about the digital file
contrast ratio11
A figure used to measure the difference in light intensity between the brightest white and the darkest black
convergence1011NSC
When separate technologies and functions are combined into a single multi-purpose device (e.g. a smartphone that is also a camera, GPS and music player).
convert10
The process of changing or causing one data format into another
cookie12NSC
A small text file saved on a user's device by a website, used to track the user's activities, preferences, settings and the browsing history of websites visited.
copyright1012
Protection for any published work that helps to prevent that work from being used without prior authorisation
core11
The processing unit that receives instructions and performs calculations or actions based on those instructions
CPU (central processing unit)1011
The part of the computer that processes (carries out) instructions; often called the 'brain' of the computer.
crowdfunding10
The practice of funding a project or venture by raising money from a large number of people who each contribute a relatively small amount, typically via the internet
CSS (cascading style sheets)1012
A web language used to control the layout and visual appearance of web pages.

D

data cap101112
A term used to describe the data limit
data mining12NSC
Examining large datasets in existing databases and data warehouses to discover patterns and generate new information or findings.
data module1112
A sealed, removable storage module containing magnetic disks and their associated access arms and read/write heads
data transfer rate1011
The speed at which data is moved between devices or across a network. It is measured in bits per second - bps, Kbps, Mbps or Gbps - using a lowercase 'b' (bits), not a capital 'B' (bytes).
data type12
A particular kind of data item, as defined by the value it can take, the programming language used, or the operations that can be performed on it.
DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service) attack12
An attack in which many computers flood a server or website with traffic until it is overloaded and goes offline, so legitimate users cannot access it.
debug10
To identify and remove errors from computer hardware or software
DEC1112
To decrement an ordinal type variable
decremental1112
The act or process of decreasing or becoming gradually less
default settings11
Controls of computer hardware or software (or of a device, equipment, or machine) as preset by its manufacturer
Delete1112
To delete a number of characters from a string starting from a start position
delimiters1112
To show the start and ends of individual pieces of data
dependency12
When one field's value depends on another field's value. When one field's value changes, the other field's value needs to change as well
digit10
A single character in a numeric system
digital divide10
A term which refers to inequality between one or more groups in terms of access to, use of, or knowledge about information and communication technologies
directories10
A directory is another name for a folder. File systems use directories to organise files within a storage device
disk drive11
A device that stores data and allows the computer to read from and write to storage media.
divisible12
Capable of being divided
domain10
The location of a website
domain name system (DNS)10
An internet or network server that helps to point domain names or hostnames to their associated IP address
DOS (Disk Operating System)11
An operating system that manages files on a disk storage device.
double variable10
Contains any positive and/or negative numbers (including decimal numbers)
DPI (dots per inch)11
A measure of the sharpness that is the density of illuminated points on a display screen
drive letter10
Indicates on which storage device the file is saved
driver1011
A set of instructions that tells your operating system how to communicate with a specific piece of hardware
dynamic instantiation1112
When a component or object is created during run-time

E

eBooks10
Short for electronic book, which is a digital publication that can be read on a computer, e-reader, or other electronic device
embedded devices10
A device that contains a special-purpose computing system
embedded operating system1011
A term used to describe an object, software or hardware that is independent and does not need an external program or device to run it
encapsulation12
The grouping of attributes and behaviour in one entity
encoder10
A hardware device or software program used to convert or encode data from one format into another
encrypt10
To conceal data in (something) by converting it into a code
encrypted message1112
To encode information to prevent anyone other than its intended recipient from viewing it
encryption101112
Scrambling data using a key so that only authorised parties who have the matching key can read it.
end of file <eof>1112
To indicate the end of a file when the file is saved
end of line <eoln>1112
To indicate the end of the line when the [Enter] button is pressed
entity12
Something that is distinct or on its own, like a table
Entity Relationship Diagram1112
To show the relationships of entity sets stored in a database
entry-level (model)1012
The most basic or affordable version of something
ergonomics1011
The study of people's efficiency in their working environment
e-sport12
A multiplayer video game played competitively for spectators, typically by professional gamers
ethernet11
A way of connecting computers together in a local area network
ethernet cables1011
Cables that are used to connect a computer to a local area network or one network to another network
ethernet hub10
A device with more than one ethernet port which allows you to connect multiple computers to the same network
ethical (question)1012
Means relating to beliefs about right and wrong
event1112
An occurrence of something
event-driven10
An event-driven program is one that largely responds to user events or other similar input
exception1112
Is generally an error condition or event that interrupts the flow of your program
Exception Handling1112
A way to prevent a program from crashing when a file does not exist
executable file10
A file that is used to perform various functions or operations on a computer
execute10
A term that describes the process of running a computer software program or command
expansion cards11
A circuit board that can be inserted in a computer to give extra facilities or memory
exponentially10
More and more rapidly
extension10
The suffix at the end of a filename that indicates what type of file it is

F

factor10
Any number that can be divided into another number (the multiple) without leaving a remainder
fair-usage policy (FUP)10
A data limit placed on uncapped internet accounts. According to this policy, an internet account will not be capped or limited unless the user uses too much data, in which case their internet access may be slowed to the point where it is unusable
feedback10
Whenever a user interacts with an application, they should receive feedback that acknowledges the interaction and informs them of what's happening
file10
A container in a computer system for storing information
file path10
The location that a file or folder is saved in a computer's file system
file transfer protocol (FTP)10
A file transfer protocol used to send and receive files
FileExists1112
To determine whether a file exists or not
firewall101112
Hardware or software that monitors incoming and outgoing network traffic and blocks unauthorised connections.
first argument1112
Is a string that holds instructions for formatting
Floor1112
To round a real number down to the lowest integer value
flow chart10
A tool that is used to show visually how an algorithm works
folder10
A digital folder stores and organises data within the file system of a storage device
foreign key1112
A field in one table that refers to the primary key of another table, creating a link (relationship) between the two tables.
formal parameter1112
To declare variable(s) next to the procedure name
format11
Prepare to receive data
Frac1112
To return the decimal part of a real number
freemium12
A business model, especially on the Internet, whereby basic services are provided free of charge while more advanced features must be paid for
freeware10
Software that is completely free to use for as long as you want to use it
FTTH (fibre to the home)11
The installation and use of optical fibre from a central point directly to individual buildings such as residences, apartment buildings and businesses to provide unprecedented high-speed internet access
function1112
A named block of code that performs a task and returns a value.

G

Gbps (gigabits per second)1112
A unit of network speed equal to one billion (1 000 000 000) bits per second. Lowercase 'b' means bits, not bytes.
gigabyte (GB)1011
It is a multiple of the unit byte for digital information. A gigabyte is 1 000 000 000 bytes
global1112
Is a programming language construct, a variable that is declared outside a function and is accessible to all the functions throughout the program
GPS (Global Positioning System)11NSC
Technology that uses signals from satellites to determine a device's location, enabling accurate tracking and mapping.
graphical interface element11
Elements used by the gui to make it easier to interact with a computer, for example checkboxes, buttons, drop lists, icons, menu bars, etc.
graphics processing unit (GPU)1011
The part of a computer responsible for processing the instructions that create a picture on the screen
green computing10
The environmentally responsible and eco-friendly use of computers and their resources
greenhouse gases10
A gas that contributes to the greenhouse effect by absorbing infrared radiation
GUI (graphical user interface)11
An interface through which a user interacts with electronic devices such as computers, handheld devices and other appliances

H

hacker10
A person who uses computers to gain unauthorised access to data
HAN (home area network)11
A network within a user's home that connects a person's digital devices
hard coded10
Data or parameters fixed in a program in such a way that they cannot be changed without modifying the program
hardware10
The collection of physical parts of a computer system
hexadecimal1011
A numbering system that uses 16 unique digits: 0-9 and A to F.
hierarchy10
Refers to the organisation of data and program files in a top-to-bottom structure wherein access to the data starts at the top and proceeds downward throughout the levels of the hierarchy
high-level programming language11
A programming language that enables a programmer to write programs that are more or less independent of a particular type of computer and that are closer to human languages and further from machine languages
homogenous1112
Elements of the same type
hot swappable1112NSC
Describes hardware that can be added or removed while the computer is still switched on and running.
hotkey1011
One or more keys used to perform a menu function or other common functions in an application
hotlinking12
The action of linking to an object on another server
HREF attribute10
Hypertext reference sets the target location for a link
hypertext transfer protocol secure (HTTPS)10
Adds a layer of security on the data in transit and enables encrypted communication and secure connection between a remote user and the primary web server

I

icon11
A picture that shows a file, folder or a program
ICQ10
ICQ ("I Seek You") is a program you can download that will let you know when friends and contacts are also online on the Internet. ICQ allows you to page them, chat with them, and initiate and participate in PC-to-PC calls, PC-to-phone and phone-to-phone calling cards calls
immersive (websites)10
A version of the online world that incorporates advanced technologies to enhance user engagement and blur the line between the user's physical reality and the digital environment
implementation plan10
Step-by-step guide, describing how to solve the problem
INC1112
To increment the ordinal type variable passed to it
incremental1112
Relating to or denoting an increase or addition
independent1112
To run on its own
index1112
The position of the element in an array
influencers11
People who have built a reputation for their knowledge and expertise on a particular topic
information and communication technology (ICT)10
A wide range of technological tools and resources used to communicate and create, spread, store and manage information
infringe10
The violation of a law or a right
infringement12
The action of breaking the terms of a law or agreement
inner loop1112
The inner part of a nested loop
input device10
Any hardware or peripheral device that allows you to enter data into a computer or interact with a computer
input validation10
A technique used by programmers to check the user's input before processing it
Insert1112
To add an empty row at the current position of your database table
instance1112
An example or single occurrence of something
instances of the class12
A data type that describes the attributes and behaviour of the object to be model electronically
instantiate1112
To create a specific object (instance) from a class.
integer10
Contains any positive or negative whole number (i.e. a number without a decimal)
integrated development environment10
(or IDE) a programming environment integrated into a software application that provides a GUI builder, a text or code editor, a compiler and/or interpreter and a debugger
intellectual property (IP)10
A term that describes the application of the mind to develop something new or original
internet protocol (IP)10
The fundamental protocol for communications on the internet
internet relay chat (IRC)10
A system for chatting that involves a set of rules and conventions and client/server software
internet service provider (ISP)10
A company that provides internet access to users or subscribers of its service
interpreter11
A computer program that reads the first language of the code, interprets it into machine code and sends it to the CPU, before reading the next line of code
invisible data capturing1112NSC
Collecting private or unrelated information about a user without their knowledge or consent.
IP address1112
A unique string of numbers separated by full stops that identifies each computer using the internet protocol to communicate over a network
IPS (in-plane switching) panel11
A type of LED display panel technology characterised by the crystal molecules moving parallel to the panel plane instead of perpendicular to it
iris and retina scanners10
Scanners that rely on unique physiological characteristics of the eye to identify an individual
iteration10
Repetition

J

JavaScript12
A client-side scripting language that runs in the web browser to make web pages interactive and dynamic, for example validating form input, responding to clicks, or updating content without reloading the page.
jitter12
The variation in the delay (latency) of data packets arriving across a network. High jitter degrades real-time services such as VoIP calls and video streaming, causing choppy or out-of-sync audio and video.
join (SQL)12
An SQL operation that combines rows from two or more related tables into a single result set, matching them on a common field - typically a foreign key linked to a primary key (e.g. an INNER JOIN).
JPEG10
A widely used lossy compression format for digital photographs and images (.jpg / .jpeg). It reduces file size by discarding some detail the human eye is unlikely to notice.

K

Kbps (kilobits per second)1011
A unit of network speed equal to one thousand (1 000) bits per second. Lowercase 'b' means bits.
keyboarding11
Refers to a set of skills required to operate a keyboard smoothly while typing. This includes understanding the computer keyboard layout and its functions
keylogger10
A software program or hardware device that is used to monitor and log each of the keys a user types into a computer keyboard
kilobyte (KB)1011
The smallest unit of data measurement greater than a byte; one kilobyte is technically 1 000 bytes.

L

laggy11
Slow to react
LAN party10
Describes a get together of individuals and their computers. These parties are held to play network games with other individuals and to share files
latency11
A term to describe the total time it takes a data packet to travel from one node to another
LED1011
Light-emitting diode is a semiconductor that illuminates when an electrical charge passes through it
linear search1112
Is a process that checks every element in the list sequentially until the desired element is found
link10
On the internet, a link is more appropriately referred to as a hyperlink and is what connects web pages to other web pages
list10
Allows you to store a large number of elements which can be accessed using an index and which must all be of the same type
local area network (LAN)1011
A computer network that covers a small area such as a home, office or building, usually connecting a limited number of computers.
local variable1112
Variables that have a local scope
location-based computing11
It refers to a number of different technologies that use a person's location as part of a computer program
log on screen11
The screen that allows authorised users access to the computer
logic error10
These errors occur when there is a logical error or design problem in your program
logical file1112
Is a variable (in RAM) that points to the physical file on your storage medium
loop10
A sequence of an instruction that is continually repeated until a certain condition is reached
LowerCase1112
To convert uppercase characters in a string to lowercase
Luhn algorithm1112
Is a simple checksum formula used to validate a variety of identification numbers, such as credit card numbers, IMEI numbers, and Canadian Social Insurance Numbers
lumens11
The SI measurement for brightness.

M

machine code11
The executable instruction code provided by all running computer system programs and applications
malicious (application)/malware10
Any application/software that is designed to change your settings, delete software, cause errors, watch browsing habits, or open the computer to attacks
malware1011
Malicious software designed to damage, disrupt or gain unauthorised access to a computer system - for example viruses, worms, trojans, ransomware and spyware.
mathematical operators10
The symbols used to tell Delphi to add, subtract, multiply or divide two numbers
Mbps (megabits per second)1011
A unit of network or internet speed equal to one million bits per second. The lowercase 'b' means bits - Mbps measures how fast data travels over a network. Do NOT confuse it with MBps (capital 'B' = megabytes per second), which is 8 times larger and is used for file sizes, not connection speed. Because 1 byte = 8 bits, a 16 Mbps line downloads at roughly 2 MB per second.
mediated search12
Using a general search engine (e.g. Google with a site: operator) to search within a specific website, rather than using that site's own internal search box.
megabyte (MB)1011
One megabyte is equal to 1 000 000 bytes, 1 000 kilobytes and precedes the gigabyte unit of measurement. It is often used to measure the size of large files
menu11
A list of options or commands for the user to select to execute the proper application function
mesh11
A type of network in which a device (node) transmits its own data as well as serves as a relay for other devices (nodes)
method (Delphi)10
A method is a function that is programmed into an object (such as a label or a string) by the creators of Delphi
method overloading1112
To have more than one method with the same name
method signature1112
To name a method and its formal parameters list
methods1112
Predefined instructions
MHz (megaherz)11
Used to measure the transmission speed of electronic devices, including channels, buses and the computer's internal clock
Microsoft WordPad10
A basic word processor that is included with almost all versions of Microsoft Windows from Windows 95 onwards
mirroring12NSC
Keeping identical copies of data (or a database) so that an up-to-date duplicate is always available if the original fails.
mnemonic10
A tool to help remember facts or a large amount of information
mobile network provider (MNP)1011
A telecommunications company that provides wireless voice and data services to its subscribed mobile users.
mobile office12NSC
A setup where you carry the portable tools and communication equipment needed to do your work and stay reachable from anywhere, rather than working from a fixed office.
mobility10
The ability to move or be moved freely and easily
modular11
A software engineering approach geared toward developing software applications in terms of modules or components
msn messenger10
The instant messaging (IM) service that was part of Microsoft's online offerings launched in the mid-1990s
multimedia10
The integration of multiple forms of media such as text, graphics, audio, video, etc.
multiprocessing11
The use of two or more CPUs within a single computer system
multithreading11NSC
When a program is divided into smaller tasks called threads that can be run at the same time, as if they were separate independent programs.

N

naming convention1112
To name things (generally agreed scheme)
nanometre10
A unit of length in the metric system, equal to one billionth of a metre
NAS (network attached storage)1112
A dedicated server, also referred to as an appliance, used for file storage and sharing.
navigation bar10
A graphical bar located at the top of a page that links users to other main portions of the page
netiquette10
A term used to describe the unwritten rules of internet courtesy and good manners
network adapter/dongle101112
A piece of hardware that can be added to a computer which allows it to connect to a network
network administrator10
A person responsible for keeping an organisation's computer network up-to-date and operating as intended
network architecture10
The overall structure of how a network is laid out
network cable1011
See ethernet cables
network medium11
Communication channels used to interconnect nodes on a computer network
network or server operating system1011
An operating system that is designed to help other computers on a network.
NFC (near field communications)11
A wireless technology that allows a device to collect and interpret data from another closely located NFC device or tag.
NIC (network interface controller)11
A computer hardware component that connects a computer to a computer network
niche field10
A specialised field or area
noise11
Refers to random data that can either accidentally be sent with a signal or join a signal automatically which hides the actual data you meant to send.
non-local1112
Is a variable that is not defined within the local scope
nonverbal communication10
Communication without the use of spoken language including gestures, facial expressions and body positions
normalise12
The action of converting a database to a standardised form
Notepad1011
A basic text-editor application in Microsoft Windows used to open and create plain text files.
notification tray11
It contains miniature icons for easy access to system functions such as antivirus settings, printer, modem, sound volume, battery status, and more
noun-verb analysis10
A planning technique used to analyse a problem statement
null1112
To represent an empty value

O

obesity10
Being significantly overweight
object-oriented10
A software programming model constructed around objects
Object-Oriented Programming (OOP)12
Refers to a type of computer programming (software design) in which programmers define not only the data type of a data structure, but also the types of operations (functions) that can be applied to the data structure
OCR10
Optical character recognition software converts the text on a picture to text that can be used in a word processing application
ONT (optical network terminal) device1012
Optical network termination device refers to the consumer end equipment in an optical fibre to the home (FTTH) link
open-source software10
Software that is not only free to use, but the source code is also free, which means anyone can download the code, use it and change it
operating system (OS)1011
System software that manages the computer's hardware and resources and lets the user communicate with the computer.
optical (sensor)11
It converts light rays into an electronic signal
ORD1112
To return the ordinal value of a character
outer loop1112
The outer part of a nested loop
output device10
Any device used to send data from a computer to another device or user
overclocking11
The process of running a computer component at a faster clock rate than the manufacturer's specifications

P

packet loss11
It refers to the amount of data (number of packets) that fails to arrive at its intended destination
Pagefile1112
A reserved portion of a hard disk that is used as an extension of random access memory (RAM) for data in RAM that has not been used recently
PAN (personal area network)11
A network built for a single person and contains all the devices connected to this network
partial dependency12
A database dependency in which a field is only dependent on some items within the same record
password11
A basic security mechanism that consists of a secret phrase created using alphabetic (abc), numeric (123), alphanumeric (a14b) and symbolic characters ($%*), or a combination thereof
PCB (Printed circuit board)11
An electronic circuit used in devices to provide mechanical support and a pathway to its electronic components
PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect)11
An interconnection system between a microprocessor and attached devices in which expansion slots are spaced closely for high speed operation
peer-to-peer network10
A network that does not have a central computer or dedicated server; i.e., all computers are independent
peripheral10
Hardware input device or output device that gives a computer additional functionality
pharming1112
Redirecting a user from a legitimate website to a fake copy (often by tampering with DNS) in order to steal their personal information.
phishing1112
A cyberattack that uses fake official-looking emails or websites to trick users into revealing personal information such as passwords or banking details.
physical data integrity12NSC
Guarding stored data against physical threats such as power failure, natural disasters and theft of hardware; protecting the accuracy and completeness of data while it is stored, retrieved and transmitted.
physical file1112
To name an external file name found on a storage device and contains the actual data
Pi1112
Is a predefined constant that returns a real number giving a useful approximation of the value Pi
piracy10
The unauthorised use or reproduction of another's work
pixel10
Short for picture element. These small little dots are what make up the images on computer displays
plain text11
Text that has no special formatting such as fonts, font sizes or images
plug-in applications10
Extra applications that can be installed inside software to increase its functionality
podcast11
A digital recording of music, news or other media that can be downloaded from the internet to a portable media player
Pos1112
To return to the start position of one string within another string as an integer
POST (Power-on self test)11
A diagnostic testing sequence that a computer's basic input/ output system runs to determine if the computer keyboard, RAM, disk drives, and other hardware are working correctly
post command1112
To permanently save the values to the database table
Power (Delphi function)1112
A Delphi function that raises a base number to a given exponent (power) and returns a real result.
primary key1112
A field (or combination of fields) whose value uniquely identifies each record in a table.
privacy10
Refers to information shared with visiting sites, how that information is used, who that information is shared with, or if that information is used to track users
problem solving10
Problem solving refers to the process through which a solution is found to a complex problem
problem statement10
A concise description of an issue to be addressed or a condition to be improved upon
procedure1112
A named block of code that performs a task but does not return a value.
processing device10
Any device that receives the data, performs a set of instructions, and then returns information to the user
processor multitasking11
When a single processor splits its time between different processes
programmer10
A person who writes computer programs
properties1112
The components or building blocks
proprietary (connection)10
A term used to describe a connection that is only compatible with specific hardware, software, computer or manufacturer
proprietary software10
Copyrighted software that prohibits the redistribution or modification of its program
protocol12
A standard used to define a method of exchanging data over a computer network, such as LAN, Internet, Intranet, etc.

Q

QR (quick response code)10
A two-dimensional barcode that can be scanned by a smartphone camera to view the data stored in it.
query1012
A field or option used to locate information within a database or other location

R

RAM (random access memory)1011NSC
Fast, temporary (volatile) memory that stores data and instructions while they are actively being used by the CPU, giving quick access for processing. Its contents are lost when the power is switched off. Also called primary memory.
Random1112
To generate a random number from 0 to less than 1
RandomRange1112
To generate a random integer number from Num1 to one less than Num2
ransomware1112NSC
Malware that locks or encrypts a user's data or device until a ransom (money) is paid to restore access.
rapid application development (RAD)10
A programming system that enables programmers to build working programs quickly
read-only memory (ROM)11
Type of computer memory that keeps its contents even when the computer or device is turned off
recursion12
A programming technique where a method calls itself to solve a smaller version of the same problem, until it reaches a base case that stops the calls.
refresh rate10
Determines how quickly the image on the monitor can be updated with the newest information
related information1112
Information belonging in the same group
relational database12
A database structured to recognise relations between stored items of information
rendering10
The process of taking a computer image or file and converting it into another format or applying a modification such as shading or shadows
resistive (touchscreen)11
A resistive screen consists of a number of layers. When the screen is pressed, the outer layer is pushed onto the next layer and the technology senses that pressure is being applied and registers input
resolution11
It refers to the clarity of the text and images displayed on the computer screen
reusability12
Is an important OOP principle
revolutions per minute (RPM)11
The number of turns in one minute
Round1112
To round a real number to an integer value
runtime error10
This occurs when you ask your program to do a task that is either impossible or is impossible under certain circumstances

S

sandbox1112
A security mechanism for separating running programs to prevent system failures or software vulnerabilities from spreading
sanitise12
The act of cleaning data and removing problems from it
scraper12
A program that scans through websites, saving the visible information to a database
screenshot11
An image of a computer desktop that can be saved as a graphics file
script kiddie1112NSC
An amateur programmer who uses or modifies existing virus or malware code written by others, rather than creating their own.
search engine10
A program that uses a database to search for keywords or key terms specified by the user
second argument1112
Holds the values that needs to be converted into a formatted string
selection sort1112
To select the element that should go in each array position either in ascending or descending order sequence
Serial AT Attachment (SATA)11
A computer bus interface used to connect host bus adapters with mass storage devices like optical drives and hard drives
server10
Computers that provide (or serve) information to other computers (like webpages)
SETLENGTH1112
To change the size of a string
shape (the connection)1012
A technique used to reduce the amount of traffic on a network by limiting the speed of applications that use the most bandwidth
shared library files10
Files that contain several very useful instructions that programs may wish to use
shareware10
Software that you get to use for free at the beginning, but after a while you must pay to continue using the software
shortcuts11
An alternative way to do something that is shorter than the one usually taken
SIM (subscriber identity module)11
A microchip in a mobile phone that connects it to a particular phone network
simulation10
A way to model random events, such that simulated outcomes closely match real-world outcomes
SMART scan12
A powerful QR reader and barcode scanner that supports all kinds of major barcode formats
sneakernet11
The method of transmitting electronic information by personally carrying it from one place to another on a removable medium such as hard drives, flash drives and optical disks
Snopes11
A well-known fact-checking website used to verify whether information, claims or stories found online are true.
social media11
A form of electronic communication through which users create online communities to share information, ideas, personal messages, and other content
social network10
A website (or other application) dedicated to allowing users to communicate and interact with each other using messages, comments, images, etc.
software10
The set of instructions a computer uses to complete any task
software engineer10
A person who designs and creates system level software like operating systems and database management systems
software interface11
It allows either two pieces of software to communicate with each other (software-software interface), or for software to communicate with a hardware device
solid-state drives (or SSDs)1011
A type of internal hard drive that, unlike normal hard drives, does not have any moving parts. This makes them many times faster
sorted1112
To sort an element in numerical order
source code10
A term used to describe text that is written using the protocol of a particular language
source code files10
Files containing instructions that are created when a computer program is created
spam10
Refers to the use of electronic messaging systems to send out unrequested or unwanted messages in bulk
spoofing11NSC
An email, website or source that appears to be from a legitimate organisation but is only a replica, created with the intent to collect personal information.
SQRT1112
To return the square root of a number
SSL (Secure Sockets Layer)12NSC
A protocol that secures data sent over the internet by encrypting it with a linked key pair: the public key encrypts the data and the matching private key decrypts it.
stand-alone operating systems1011
A complete operating system that works directly on a computer (or smartphone) to make sure that the tasks of the operating system are completed
star topology11
All devices are connected to a central router which manages all the communication on the network
static12
Fixed or unchanging
step through1112
To step through means that you are working through a program line by line
storage device10
Any computing hardware that is used for storing, porting and extracting data files and objects
STR1112
To convert an integer or real number into a string, with optional basic formatting
stream(-ing)1011
Data streaming is when a multimedia file can be played back without being completely downloaded first
string10
Variable made up of a sequence of numbers, letters and symbols
subjective10
Based on or influenced by personal feelings, tastes or opinions
subwoofer10
A complete loudspeaker or loudspeaker component designed to reproduce low-pitched audio frequencies known as bass
surround sound10
A technique for enriching the quality of the sound from an audio source with additional audio channels from speakers that surround the listener
switch (hub)1011
Works in the same way as an ethernet hub with one difference, it is more intelligent. Rather than sending information to all ports, it sends the information only to the correct computer
synchronous communication1011
Real-time communication where the participants take part at the same time, such as a live chat, phone call or video call.
syntax10
Refers to the specific rules of a language
syntax error10
Occurs when you break the rules of the programming language
system software1112
A type of computer program that is designed to run a computer's hardware and application programs

T

tags10
Elements that tell the web browser how to interpret the information inside these elements, determining what it displays in any section
taskbar11
The bar at the bottom of the screen that contains the start button on the left side and the systray on the right. It also includes the current time on the far-right side and can hold shortcuts to programs directly to the right of the start button
telecommunications10
The technology involved in sending information over long distances using electronic equipment like radios and telephones
tendonitis10
A painful inflammation of the tendons that often results from overuse. A tendon is tissue that attaches muscle to the bone
terabyte (TB)1011
A terabyte is a unit of information equal to one million million (10^12) bytes
thread11
A way for a program to split itself into two or more simultaneously running tasks
throttle (the connection)1012
Throttling refers to limiting the speed of an internet connection, usually for a short period of time, under specific circumstances
toggle10
To swap between two stages (ON/OFF)
touch typing11
Typing without looking at the keys
trace table10
A technique that can be used to test an algorithm. It helps you to find out if your answer is correct
transitive dependency12
A dependency in which a field is dependent on a single, specific field within a table, rather than on the whole record
transmit10
The process of sending digital or analogue data over a communication medium to one or more computing, network, communication or electronic devices
troubleshoot10
The process of solving a problem or determining a problem to an issue
Trunc1112
To remove or chop off the decimal part of the real number. It returns an integer after the truncation
typography10
The style and appearance of printed matter

U

ultrabook12
A type of laptop that falls in the thin and lightweight laptop category
unambiguous1112
Not open to more than one interpretation
unbiased10
Showing no prejudice for or against something
uniform resource locator (URL)10
A standardised naming convention for addressing documents accessible over the internet
Upcase1112
To convert a single letter character to uppercase
UpperCase1112
To convert lowercase characters in a string to uppercase
USB (Universal serial bus)11
A common interface that enables communication between devices and a host controller such as a personal computer
user interface (or UI)1011
The way in which people interact with computer programs or a website
user-defined1112
Is methods written by programmers themselves
username11
A username is a word, phrase, number or combination of characters that uniquely identifies a user on any computing device or related service that requires user authentication
utilities101112
Small programs which help users to maintain their computers

V

VAL1112
To convert a string to a numeric value
validate1112
To try and lessen the number of errors during the process of data input in programming
value parameter1112
When a procedure is called, memory locations are created for each of the formal parameters and the values of the arguments are assigned to the corresponding formal parameters. Changes made to a value parameter will not affect its corresponding argument. When the procedure is exited, the memory locations of the formal parameters 'die' away
variable10
A value that can change, depending on conditions or on information passed to the program
variable scope10
The scope of a variable refers to the sections of a program in which that variable is available
virtual memory10
A method of using the computer hard drive to provide extra memory for the computer
virtual reality (VR)12NSC
An artificial, computer-generated environment created with software that appears as a 3D space, which the user interacts with using VR equipment.
virtualisation11
It refers to the act of creating a virtual (rather than actual) version of something
virus10
A program, script or macro designed to cause damage, steal personal information, modify data, send e-mail, display messages or any combination of these
visual cues10
A visual signal and reminder of something. It helps users to understand where they are in the application, what they are doing, how the application works and what is expected of them next
vlogging11
A blog in which the postings are mostly in video form
VoIP (voice over internet protocol)1011
Technology (a set of rules) that makes it possible to make telephone and video calls over the internet.
VPN (virtual private network)11
An encrypted connection over the internet from a device to a network

W

wallpaper10
The picture or pattern you see on the main screen after the computer has booted up
WAN (wide area network)1011
A network that covers a large area. This could include all the people in a suburb or city, but it is most often used to refer to the internet, the world's largest WAN.
web crawler12
A program or script written to browse the World Wide Web in a systematic manner for the purpose of indexing websites
whistleblow12
To inform on a person or organisation regarded as doing something unlawful or immoral
white space10
Any section of a document that is unused or spaced around an object
window11
An area on the screen that displays information for a specific program
wireless access point (WAP)101112
A device that lets users connect wirelessly to a network or the internet.
wizard11
A dialogue box that instructs you step by step what information it needs to create a shortcut
work in place10
Algorithms that do all their calculations without taking up any additional space in memory
work out-of-place10
Algorithms that need to make copies of the items they are working with in memory
world wide web101112
It refers to the millions of websites that are hosted on the internet