Jargon Buster
Let's unravel the technical jargon that has become part of everyday language!...
• Hardware - the physical equipment used in a computer system, like the keyboard or monitor.
• Software - the programmes uploaded on to the hardware, which allow us to send e-mails, write letters, etc. Some, such as free anti-virus software, can be downloaded from the web.
• Network - a chain of computers linked together, allowing multiple users to access or work on the same information (in most cases).
• Wireless Technology - a computer or network system minus the wires! Benefits include the removal of unsightly cables, improved health and safety (less to trip over) and greater mobility.
• Remote Access or Virtual Private Network (VPN) - accessing the main network away from the office via an internet connection. Useful for staff working from home or on the road. It can also remove the need for a call out when dealing with technical problems. Engineers can ‘look' at your computer without being in the same room and assess whether a site visit is required.
• Server - used to oversee the administration of a network, a sort of ‘mother ship' really. With a server in place all the administration is done once and then sent out to all the other computers, ensuring all users have access to the same, real-time information. The server is also responsible for security, all files, the back-up routine and so on. If you have more than one computer, dedicated server services are very useful, if not essential.
• Hard Drive - a hard [disk] drive is the mechanism that controls the hard disk, which in turn provides the largest amount of data storage for the PC.
• Computer Memory - the amount of space available for use, like blank pages in a book.
• Firewall - a security feature to protect PCs from viruses, intrusions and other cyber-attacks via an internet link. A standard feature of modern operating systems, some individual firewalls can be user-controlled whilst in larger networks a firewall may be held in a stand-alone PC. Bit like a gatekeeper, monitoring all the traffic that passes through.
• E-commerce - a generic term applied to any sort of online trading but also used in conjunction with data exchange and certain types of research, such as customer profiling. Most of us will associate it with shopping over the internet!
• Back up - storing of data on a piece of hardware, such as a disc or ‘stick'. Usually undertaken daily and then removed from the premises for safe-keeping. Some businesses offer a ‘back up data, off-site service' which, again, utilises the web for remote access.
• Recovery - the retrieval of data after an unforeseen incident, where a system has ‘crashed'.
• IT Helpdesk - this one does what is says on the tin really, a central service that you can contact when you have a problem. Helpdesk support levels vary with providers and some even advertise ‘free computer tech support', as part of a bigger package.
Deciphering the geek-speak continues on www.whatis.com