Technology plays a vital role in almost everything we do today. Whether it’s at work or home, you’re likely to come across digital terms that might sound like a different language. And while you don’t need to be a tech expert, understanding the lingo can help you make more informed decisions, especially when choosing software, troubleshooting an issue, or collaborating on a new project. That’s why we’ve put together a user-friendly glossary to decode some of the most common tech expressions.

A Quick Tour Through the Tech Alphabet

A – D

Algorithm
A set of instructions that a computer follows to solve a problem or complete a task.

API
Short for Application Programming Interface. It allows different software systems to communicate with each other.

Artificial Intelligence (AI)
The capability of machines to perform tasks that usually require human thought, like speech recognition or decision-making.

Augmented Reality
Technology that layers digital information over the real world, like interactive images or data through a phone camera.

Authentication
A method to confirm the identity of users before granting access to a system.

Back End
The hidden technical side of a website or app where data is processed and stored.

Big Data
Massive sets of information that are analyzed to discover patterns or insights.

Blockchain
A secure digital ledger used to record transactions across a distributed network.

Bandwidth
The capacity of a network to transmit data in a given period.

Business Intelligence Tools
Software used to examine and interpret business data for better decision-making.

E – H

Cache
Temporary storage that helps websites and apps load faster on your device.

CPU (Central Processing Unit)
The brain of your computer that performs all operations.

Cloud Computing
A method of accessing software and storing data online instead of on your local machine.

Cloudsourcing
Hiring external providers through cloud platforms to handle IT services.

CDN (Content Delivery Network)
A system of servers that delivers online content quickly by spreading the load.

Cookie
A small piece of data saved by your browser that remembers your preferences or login details.

Database
An organized collection of data that can be searched, filtered, and updated.

Data Centre
A facility housing multiple servers used to store, process, or distribute data.

Debugging
The process of identifying and fixing errors in code or software.

Dedicated Hosting
Using an entire server exclusively for one website or application.

Defragmentation
Reorganizing files on a hard drive so they’re stored more efficiently.

Disaster Recovery
Plans and systems set up to restore operations after a significant event like a cyberattack.

Disruptive Technology
A new innovation that changes the way industries operate, replacing older methods.

DNS (Domain Name System)
Translates user-friendly web addresses into numerical IP addresses understood by computers.

Dongle
A compact device that connects to your computer to enable wireless access or security features.

Dual Processor
A system that uses two processors to increase computing speed and efficiency.

I – L

Encoding
Transforming data into a different format for compatibility or security.

Encryption
Protecting data by converting it into a coded form, viewable only with a key.

Ethernet Cable
A wire that connects devices to the internet or a local network.

Executable File
A file that initiates a program or script when opened.

Export
Moving data from one program into a format that another program can use.

External Hard Drive
A portable device used for storing files and backups outside your computer.

Fiber Optic Cable
High-speed cables that transmit data as pulses of light through glass strands.

File Server
A central computer that stores and shares files within a network.

Firewall
A protective barrier that monitors and controls traffic to and from your network.

Firmware
Software embedded in hardware devices that controls basic operations.

Gateway
A connection point between two networks, enabling communication between them.

Gigabyte (GB)
A unit of digital storage equal to about one billion bytes.

GPU (Graphics Processing Unit)
A processor designed to handle images and visual content, ideal for gaming or design.

Hardware
The physical components of a computer, such as monitors, keyboards, or hard drives.

Hostname
A unique label used to identify a device on a network.

Hyperlink
A clickable text or image that takes you to another page or section.

HTML (Hypertext Markup Language)
The standard code used to build websites and structure web content.

HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol)
The protocol that governs how web browsers communicate with websites.

This glossary is just a starting point to help you feel more confident navigating today’s digital world. Whether you’re working on a project, exploring new tech tools, or simply trying to understand IT conversations better, having a grasp of these terms will make a big difference.