Default
The pre-defined configuration of a system or an application. In most programs, the defaults can be changed to reflect personal preferences.Directory
A list of files stored in the computer.
Desktop
The main directory of the user interface. Desktops usually contain icons that
represent links to the hard drive, a network (if there is one), and a trash
or recycling can for files to be deleted. It could also display icons of
frequently used applications, as requested by the user.
Disk
Two distinct types. The names refer to the media inside the container:
The hard disc stores vast amounts of data. It is usually inside the computer
but can be a separate peripheral on the outside. Hard discs are made up of
several rigid coated metal discs. Currently, hard discs can store 10 to 180
Gb (gigabytes)
A floppy disc, 3.5" square, usually inserted
into the computer and can store about 1.4 megabytes of data. The 3.5" square “floppies” have a very thin, flexible disc inside. There is also an intermediate-sized
floppy disc called Zip discs, which can store 250 megabytes of data.
Domain
Represents an IP (Internet Protocol) address or set of IP addresses that compose
a domain. The domain name appears in URL's to identify web pages or in email
addresses. For example, the email address for the First Lady is first. lady@whitehouse.gov,
“whitehouse.gov” being the domain name. Each domain name ends with a suffix
that indicates what “top level domain” it belongs with. These are “.com”
for commercial, “.gov” for government, “.org” for organization, “.edu” for
educational institution, “.biz” for business. Domain suffixes may also show
the country in which the domain is registered. No two parties can ever hold
the same domain name.
Download
The process of transferring information from a web site (or other remote location
on a network) to the computer. It is possible to “download a file” or “view
a download.”
Drop-down menu
A menu window that opens vertically on-screen to display context-related options.
Also called pop-up menu or pull-down menu.
DSL
Digital Subscriber Line. A method of connecting to the Internet via a phone
line. A DSL connection uses copper telephone lines but is able to relay data
at much higher speeds than modems and does not interfere with telephone use.
Ebook
The term refers to a book that is available in electronic format. Usually eBooks
are available in Adobe PDF or eBook Reader format, or in Microsoft's LIT
format, but there are many other formats available.
Email
Electronic mail; messages, including memos or letters, sent electronically
between networked computers that may be across the office or around the world.
Encryption
The process of transmitting scrambled data so that only authorized recipients
can unscramble it. For instance, encryption is used to scramble credit card
information when purchases are made over the Internet.
Ethernet
A type of network.
Ethernet card
A board inside a computer to which a network cable can be attached.
