Information Technology, the Internet, and You – Vocabulary

A comprehensive set of vocabulary flashcards covering key terms from the lecture on information systems, software, hardware, data, connectivity, and IT careers.

Information System

A collection of people, procedures, software, hardware, data, and the Internet that work together to collect, process, store, and disseminate information.

People (in IS)

The users who interact with and ultimately benefit from an information system; considered the most important component.

Procedures

Rules or guidelines that govern how people use hardware, software, and data within an information system.

Software

Programs that tell the computer how to process data; divided into system software and application software.

Hardware

The physical components of a computer system such as the system unit, input/output devices, storage, and communication equipment.

Data

Raw, unprocessed facts that can be transformed into meaningful information.

Internet

The world’s largest network, linking millions of computers and providing global connectivity.

System Software

Programs that manage computer resources and enable application software to run; includes operating systems, utilities, and device drivers.

Application Software

End-user programs used to perform specific tasks, such as word processing or web browsing.

Operating System (OS)

System software that coordinates computer resources, provides a user interface, and runs applications.

Utility Program

System software that performs maintenance tasks such as file management or antivirus protection.

Device Driver

System software that allows the operating system to communicate with specific hardware devices.

Embedded Operating System

An OS built into smartphones, tablets, or other dedicated devices.

Real-Time Operating System (RTOS)

An OS designed to process data instantly for embedded or specialized applications.

Standalone Operating System

A full-featured OS used on desktop or laptop computers.

Network Operating System

System software that manages and supports networked computers.

General-Purpose Application

Widely used software such as word processors, spreadsheets, or browsers.

Specialized Application

Programs focused on specific disciplines or tasks, e.g., web authoring or graphic design.

App (Mobile Application)

Software designed specifically for mobile devices like smartphones and tablets.

Microprocessor

The CPU of a computer; executes instructions and processes data.

Memory (RAM)

Temporary storage that holds data and instructions currently in use; contents are lost when power is off.

Input Device

Hardware that converts user data into a form the computer can process, e.g., keyboard or mouse.

Output Device

Hardware that converts processed data into usable information, such as a monitor or printer.

Secondary Storage

Permanent storage for data and programs, even when power is off.

Hard Disk

Magnetic secondary storage device used for large amounts of data.

Solid-State Storage

Non-volatile storage with no moving parts; faster and more reliable than hard disks.

Optical Disc

Storage medium that uses laser technology, including CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray discs.

Modem

A communication device that converts data for transmission over the Internet.

Supercomputer

The most powerful type of computer, used for complex scientific calculations.

Mainframe Computer

Large system that handles vast amounts of data for many users simultaneously.

Midrange Computer (Server)

A computer that provides resources and services to client machines on a network.

Personal Computer (PC)

A single-user computer; the most common computer type.

Smartphone

A handheld personal computer that combines mobile phone capabilities with computing functions.

Wearable

Computing device worn on the body, such as smartwatches or fitness trackers.

Desktop Computer

A personal computer designed to fit on or under a desk.

Laptop (Notebook)

A portable personal computer with an integrated screen and keyboard.

Tablet

A mobile PC with a touchscreen interface, larger than a smartphone but smaller than a laptop.

Document File

A file that stores text or word-processed information.

Worksheet File

A file created by spreadsheet software to organize numeric data in rows and columns.

Database File

A collection of related records organized for easy retrieval.

Presentation File

A file containing slides used to convey information visually to an audience.

Connectivity

The ability of computers and devices to share information through networks.

Network

A communications system connecting two or more devices for data exchange.

Cloud Computing

Using Internet-based servers for storage, software, and processing power.

Wireless Technology

Communication without physical cables, enabling mobile connectivity.

Internet of Things (IoT)

The network of everyday objects embedded with sensors and connectivity to exchange data.

Antivirus Program

Utility software that detects and removes malicious code from a computer.

Webmaster

IT professional who develops and maintains websites.

Software Engineer

Specialist who designs and creates application or system software based on user needs.

Computer Support Specialist

Professional who provides technical assistance to users.

Technical Writer

Expert who prepares instruction manuals and technical documents.

Network Administrator

Professional responsible for creating and maintaining computer networks.