Unit 2: Coding Languages & Networks

Database

An organized collection of data made of relations and domains (on the mathematical level) or magnetized microscopic zones (HDD) / electrons on flash memory cells (SSD).

RAM

Random Access Memory. A computer's short term memory of data currently being used or that the system needs.

WAL

Write Ahead Logs. A security measure to keep track of data movement between hardware and software in case of extreme circumstances.

Database Management Systems (DBMS)

Software layers that gatekeep, clean, secure, backup, and organize data allowing users to safely read, write, and update data.

Often times are relational (use rows and columns) and use SQL.

DBMS examples

PostgreSQL, MySQL, MongoDB, Redis

Cartesian Product

Mathematical operation that combines sets to create a new set of all possible ordered pairs.

Compiler

The translator of a coding language to machine code for statically typed languages such as Java, C#.

Interpreter

The translator of a coding language to machine code for dynamically typed languages such as Python, Javascript, Lua.

Statically Typed Language

Data types are locked in place before the program is run. Rules are strict and upfront, the system safely takes code because the data type and label is already verified.

Dynamically Typed Language

Allows spontaneous and changing types. Translates code to the system on startup.

Translator

Translates a coding language into machine code (binary) for the computer to be able to understand software.

Made of pure software often written in C or C++

Bootstrapping

For compilers. A compiler is written in its own language.

Self-interpretation

The “bootstrapping” for interpreters. Trying to bootstrap an interpreter would result in an infinite dependency chain.

Also called Cross-implementation

Edge Case

A compiler error where a combination of code never anticipated was built (like incorrect syntax or a forgotten function).

Miscomplication

A compiler error where the system translates broken code but the binary ends up not matching the original code.

Runs seemlessly but breaks. Hard to debug.

Data Serialization

When different coding languages interact via Bridges or APIs by sending JSON files across environments.

JSON

The bare, simple, universal format that every coding language understands.

Network

Digital highway for data. Exists in hardware as cables, routers, servers, and software as protocols.