Computer Essentials Module 1

A type of software that controls the basic operations of a computer and manages its resources.

The core component of an operating system that manages fundamental operations like memory allocation and processor scheduling.

A type of software designed to perform specific tasks chosen by the user, like word processing, browsing the web, or playing games.

A graphical interface that allows users to interact with the computer using visual elements like icons, menus, and windows.

A software license that allows users to buy and use the software but does not grant them the right to modify or distribute it.

A type of software license that allows free access to the software's source code, enabling users to modify, distribute, and study it.

A data transfer interface that allows high-speed data transfer between computers and peripherals.

An interface that transmits audio and video signals in high definition, commonly used for connecting devices like TVs and DVD players.

Memory that permanently stores data and programs until deleted or damaged. Examples include hard drives, pen drives, memory cards, CDs, and DVDs.

Devices that allow interaction with a computer, providing input and output. They can be integrated or external. Examples include keyboard, mouse, touchscreen, monitor, printer, and speakers.

The part of the computer's memory that stores data needed for immediate use. It's faster than mass storage, but data is lost when the computer is turned off.

The part of the computer's memory that stores essential components of the operating system, which is needed to start the computer. Data here remains even when the computer is off.

A type of mass storage that uses spinning platters to store data. It's slower than SSDs, but often more affordable.

A type of mass storage that uses flash memory chips for faster data access. These chips are similar to RAM, but data is retained even when the power is off.

Connections on a computer that allow the transfer of data both into and out of the device. For example, a USB port is both an input and output port.

The speed at which a computer can access data. This is directly affected by the amount of available RAM and the type of mass storage used.

A storage solution that utilizes cloud computing, allowing access to multiple resources, decentralized data, enhanced security, and easy accessibility.

A communication system connecting multiple electronic devices to share resources like hardware, software, or connectivity, and to access shared data in a central location, minimizing data duplication.

A network connection that relies on physical cables, such as copper or optical fibers.

A network connection that uses radio waves for communication, such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.

A hierarchical structure within a network, where devices are organized in levels of importance and authority.

A method of connecting to the internet using a fixed phone line and a modem that converts digital signals to sound waves.

A faster type of digital connection that uses phone lines and can transmit data at higher speeds.

A high-speed internet connection that uses existing phone lines to transmit data. ADSL is asymmetrical, meaning upload speeds are typically slower than download speeds.

A type of internet connection provided by mobile phone networks, offering speeds comparable to ADSL.

A very fast mobile internet connection using fourth generation mobile networks. Download speeds can reach up to 3 Gbit/sec.

A wireless internet connection typically found in public places, like hotels, restaurants, and coffee shops.

An internet connection that uses a TV cable to transmit data, common in the United States.

A wireless broadband internet connection offering high speed and coverage, although not widely used in Italy.

A network where each computer can act as both a server and a client, sharing resources with each other.

A network connected to computers within a limited area, such as an office or a classroom.

A network connecting computers across a large geographical distance, spanning cities or even countries.

A personal network for devices like smartphones and tablets, often using Bluetooth.

The global network of interconnected computers and networks, enabling communication and information exchange across the world.

A private network within a company or organization, accessible only to authorized personnel.

A secure, encrypted connection over the public internet, creating a private network for remote access.

The speed at which data is transmitted over a network, measured in bits per second (bps).

A unique address that identifies a resource on the internet, like a website or file.

A service that translates human-readable domain names (like 'google.com') into numerical IP addresses that computers understand.

A website's address, composed of two parts: the top-level domain (e.g., '.com', '.org') and the second-level domain (e.g., 'google', 'wikipedia').

A secure version of the HTTP protocol that encrypts data before transmission, ensuring privacy and security, especially for online transactions.

A digital document that verifies the identity of a website or email sender, often used for online transactions.

A software application used to access and view web pages, such as Internet Explorer, Firefox, Chrome, or Safari.

Techniques that restrict access to certain websites based on age or other factors, often used to protect children from inappropriate content online.

A way to view a web page by opening a browser and entering the desired website's address in the address bar.