Application of Information and Communication Technologies - Lecture 2

Vocabulary flashcards covering computer types, mobile devices, data processing, the World Wide Web, online security, malware types, health considerations, software development, and computer networks.

Supercomputer

The fastest and most powerful type of computer, capable of processing billions of instructions per second for complex tasks like weather forecasting, scientific research, space exploration, and nuclear simulations.

Mainframe Computer

A large, reliable computer used by big organizations such as banks, airlines, and government offices to process massive volumes of data and support thousands of users simultaneously.

Minicomputer (Midrange Computer)

A computer that is smaller and cheaper than a mainframe, used by medium-sized organizations for departmental tasks while supporting multiple users.

Microcomputer (Personal Computer)

A general-purpose computer commonly known as a PC, used by individuals in forms such as desktops and laptops for word processing, browsing, and gaming.

Embedded Computer

A computer built inside another machine or device to control specific functions, which is typically not easily reprogrammable (found in washing machines, cars, ATMs, and mobile phones).

Smartphone

A mobile device that combines computer functionality with mobile phone capabilities, featuring internet access, apps, cameras, and GPS navigation.

Tablet

A touch-screen computer larger than a smartphone but smaller than a laptop, used for activities like reading e-books, watching movies, drawing, and taking notes.

Game Console

A dedicated computing device built specifically for playing video games, available as handheld portable units or home units connected to TVs and monitors.

Wearable Devices

Small computing devices worn directly on the body (such as smartwatches and fitness trackers) to track fitness, monitor health metrics, and communicate via Bluetooth.

Data

Raw facts and figures, such as isolated numbers, text, images, or sounds, that carry no inherent meaning by themselves.

Information

Data that has been processed and organized into a meaningful form that aids in understanding and decision-making.

Qualities of Good Information

The essential standards that define valuable information: accurate (no mistakes), relevant (matches the purpose), complete (has all necessary details), and timely (available when needed).

World Wide Web (WWW)

A global collection of interlinked web pages and digital documents accessible over the Internet.

URL (Uniform Resource Locator)

The specific unique address used by a web browser to locate and retrieve a website or web page on the Internet.

Web Browser

A software application, such as Chrome, Firefox, or Edge, designed to access, retrieve, and view web pages on the Internet.

Web Server

A dedicated host computer connected to the Internet that stores websites and serves web pages to requesting client browsers.

Search Engine

A software program, such as Google, Bing, Yahoo, or DuckDuckGo, that searches an indexed database of web pages based on user-provided keywords.

SERP (Search Engine Results Page)

The organized listing of web page links and results presented by a search engine after querying its database.

Online Social Networks

Websites and applications, such as Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and X, designed for users to connect, interact, join interest communities, and share content.

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP)

A communications technology that enables voice calls and audio transmission across the Internet rather than traditional telephone lines.

Digital Security

The practice and technologies used to protect electronic devices, networks, and data from cyber threats, attacks, and unauthorized access.

Malware

A collective term for malicious software created intentionally to damage devices, disrupt operations, or steal private data.

Virus

A type of malware that attaches itself to an existing program and replicates or causes harm when that host program is executed.

Worm

A type of self-replicating malware that spreads across computer networks automatically without needing a host program.

Trojan Horse

A harmful program disguised as legitimate, useful software that compromises or steals data once executed.

Spyware

Malicious software that operates secretly in the background to harvest private user data and activity without consent.

Ransomware

Malware that encrypts or locks access to a victim's files and demands financial payment for their release.

20-20-20 Rule

A health guideline for computer users: every 20 minutes, look away from the screen at an object 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds to prevent eye strain.

E-Waste

Discarded electronic products, such as old smartphones, PCs, and printers, that contain toxic materials harmful to the environment.

Program

Software designed to execute specific tasks primarily on personal computers, traditionally installed from CDs or websites.

App (Application)

Software created primarily for smartphones and tablets, commonly downloaded and installed directly from app stores.

Software Development Life Cycle Steps

The sequential process of creating software: Planning, Designing, Coding, Testing, and Deployment.

Local Area Network (LAN)

A telecommunications network connecting computers and devices within a limited physical area, such as a single room, school, or office building.

Wide Area Network (WAN)

A network that spans large geographical distances across cities or countries, with the Internet being the prime example.

Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)

A computer network designed to cover a broader area than a LAN, typically spanning an entire city.

Power Users

Specialized technology users—such as engineers, programmers, and research scientists—who need high-performance hardware and advanced software capabilities.