Boot
To start up a computer. Cold boot—restarting computer after having turned off the power. Warm boot—restarting computer without having turned off the power.
Browser
Software used to navigate the Internet. Netscape Navigator, Microsoft Internet
Explorer and Mozilla Firefox are today's most popular browsers for gaining
access to the World Wide Web.
Byte
Most computers use combinations of eight bits, called bytes, to represent one
character of data or instructions. For example, the word “cat” has three
characters, and it would be represented by three bytes.
Cache
A small data-memory storage area that a computer can use to instantly re-access
data instead of re-reading the data from the original source, such as a
hard drive. Browsers use a cache to store web pages so that the user may
view them again without reconnecting to the Web.
CD-ROM
Compact Disc Read-Only Memory. An optically read disc designed to hold information
such as music, reference materials, or computer software. A single CD-ROM
can hold around 700 megabytes of data, enough for several encyclopedias.
Most software programs are now delivered on CD-ROMs.
Chat
Typing text into a message box on a screen to engage in dialog with one or
more people via the Internet or other network.
Cookie
A text file sent by a Web server that is stored on the hard drive of a computer
and relays back to the Web server things about the user, his or her computer,
and/or his or her computer activities.
CPU
Central Processing Unit. The brain of the computer.
Crash
The hardware or software problem that causes information to be lost or the
computer to malfunction. Sometimes a crash can cause permanent damage to
a computer.
Cursor
A moving position-indicator displayed on a computer monitor that shows a computer
operator where the next action or operation will take place.
Cyberspace
Slang for the Internet.
