ICDL Computer & Online Essentials (ICDL) flashcards
ICDL Computer & Online Essentials · Build recall with a focused review session.
32 cards. Read the term and the definition here. The deck at the top of this page is optional.
- RAM
- Volatile working memory that holds the programs and data currently in use; everything stored in it is lost when the computer is switched off.
- Operating system
- System software that manages hardware, runs applications, organises files and provides the user interface; examples are Windows, macOS, Linux, Android and iOS.
- Input device
- Hardware such as a keyboard, mouse, scanner or microphone that converts user actions into data a computer can process.
- Output device
- Hardware such as a monitor, printer or speaker that presents processed data from the computer to the user.
- Solid-state drive
- Non-volatile storage with no moving parts that keeps data when power is off and is faster and more shock-resistant than a hard disk drive.
- Plug and play
- Feature where a newly connected peripheral is recognised automatically and its driver is installed without manual configuration by the user.
- File extension
- Suffix after the dot in a file name, such as .docx or .jpg, that tells the operating system which application should open the file.
- Utility software
- Type of system software that maintains and protects the computer, for example antivirus programs, backup tools and disk cleanup utilities.
- Local area network (LAN)
- Network covering a small area such as a home, office or school, where connected devices share files, printers and an internet connection.
- Wide area network
- Network that spans a large geographical area by linking several networks together; the internet is the largest example of one.
- Router
- Device that forwards data packets between different networks and usually gives a home network its internet access and Wi-Fi.
- IP address
- Unique numeric label given to a device on a network so that data packets can be addressed and routed to it.
- DNS
- Domain Name System: service that converts human-readable domain names such as example.com into the numeric IP addresses computers use to locate servers.
- Bandwidth
- Maximum amount of data a network connection can transfer in one second, usually measured in megabits per second (Mbps).
- Client-server network
- Network model in which central servers provide services and resources while client devices request them, making management and security easier than peer-to-peer.
- HTTPS
- Secure version of HTTP that encrypts traffic between browser and website, shown by a padlock, protecting passwords and payment data.
- Bcc (blind carbon copy)
- Email field whose recipients receive the message but whose addresses are hidden from everyone else listed on the email.
- Cc (carbon copy)
- Email field that sends a visible copy to additional recipients; every recipient can see the addresses listed there.
- Reply All
- Email command that sends your answer to the original sender and to everyone included in the To and Cc fields.
- Email attachment
- File sent along with an email message; most providers cap total size at around 20 to 25 megabytes.
- Synchronous communication
- Communication in which participants interact at the same time, as in a video call, live chat or instant messaging session.
- Netiquette
- Accepted rules of courteous behaviour online, such as avoiding messages typed entirely in capitals, which readers interpret as shouting.
- Video conferencing
- Real-time audio and video meeting between people in different places, requiring a camera, microphone and sufficient internet bandwidth.
- Out-of-office auto-reply
- Automatic message sent back to people who email you, usually stating that you are away and when you will respond.
- Phishing
- Fraudulent email, message or website that impersonates a trusted organisation to trick people into revealing passwords, card or bank details.
- Two-factor authentication
- Security method that requires a second proof of identity, such as a code sent to a phone, in addition to the password.
- Firewall
- Hardware or software that inspects network traffic against rules and blocks unauthorised connections to or from a computer or network.
- Ransomware
- Malicious software that encrypts a user's files and demands payment, usually in cryptocurrency, for the key that restores them.
- Trojan
- Malware hidden inside software that appears legitimate; once installed it gives attackers access or damages the system.
- Strong password
- Password of at least twelve characters mixing upper and lower case letters, digits and symbols, avoiding dictionary words and personal information.
- Cookie
- Small file a website stores in the browser to remember logins, preferences or browsing behaviour; users can delete or block them.
- 3-2-1 backup rule
- Guideline to keep three copies of data, on two different types of media, with one copy stored off-site.