FBLA information tech
1. Computer Hardware
Definition: The physical components of a computer system.
Examples: Keyboard, mouse, motherboard, hard drive, CPU
2. CPU (Central Processing Unit)
Definition: The “brain” of the computer that processes instructions.
Example: Intel Core i7, AMD Ryzen 5
3. RAM (Random Access Memory)
Definition: Temporary memory that stores data currently being used.
Example: 8GB DDR4 RAM used while running programs
4. ROM (Read-Only Memory)
Definition: Permanent memory that stores essential startup instructions.
Example: BIOS firmware
5. Storage Devices
Definition: Hardware used to permanently save data.
Examples: SSD, HDD, USB flash drive, SD card
6. Peripherals
Definition: External devices connected to a computer.
Examples: Printer, scanner, speakers, webcam
7. Software
Definition: Programs and instructions that tell hardware what to do.
Examples: Google Chrome, Microsoft Word
8. Operating System
Definition: System software that manages hardware and software.
Examples: Windows 11, macOS, Linux, iOS
9. Utility Programs
Definition: Software that performs maintenance tasks.
Examples: Disk cleanup, antivirus, compression tools
10. Computer Maintenance
Definition: Actions to keep a computer running properly.
Examples: Updating software, cleaning dust, defragmenting
11. Network
Definition: A group of connected computers that share resources.
Examples: School internet network (LAN)
12. LAN (Local Area Network)
Definition: Network covering a small geographic area.
Example: Wi-Fi in a classroom or office building
13. WAN (Wide Area Network)
Definition: Network covering a large geographic area.
Example: The internet
14. Router
Definition: A device that directs network traffic.
Example: Home Wi-Fi router from Spectrum or Xfinity
15. Switch
Definition: Connects multiple devices in a network and directs data efficiently.
Example: Switches in school networks connecting classrooms
16. IP Address
Definition: Unique number assigned to identify a device on a network.
Example: 192.168.1.1
17. DNS (Domain Name System)
Definition: Translates domain names into IP addresses.
Example: Turning “google.com” into an IP address
18. Malware
Definition: Malicious software intended to harm or steal data.
Examples: Virus, worm, Trojan, ransomware
19. Firewall
Definition: Security system that blocks unauthorized access.
Example: Windows Firewall protecting network traffic
20. Encryption
Definition: Scrambling data so only authorized users can read it.
Example: HTTPS on websites
21. Data vs. Information
Data Definition: Raw facts.
Example: 98, 95, 92
Information Definition: Processed, meaningful data.
Example: Student’s test average is 95%
22. Database
Definition: Organized collection of related data.
Example: Customer information in a store system
23. Field
Definition: Single piece of data in a database.
Example: First Name, Zip Code
24. Record
Definition: A group of related fields.
Example: One person’s contact info in a table
25. Spreadsheet
Definition: Software used to organize and calculate data.
Example: Microsoft Excel budget sheet
26. Formula
Definition: Equation used in spreadsheets.
Example: =A1 + B1
27. Function
Definition: Pre-built formula.
Example: =SUM(C2:C10)
28. Programming
Definition: Writing instructions for a computer to follow.
Example: Creating an app in Python or JavaScript
29. Algorithm
Definition: Step-by-step instructions to solve a problem.
Example: Recipe for making cookies (ordered steps)
30. Loop
Definition: Programming structure that repeats actions.
Example: A game continuously updating character positions
31. Flowchart
Definition: Diagram showing steps in a process.
Example: Start → Login → Check Password → End
32. File Extension
Definition: Letters after a filename indicating file type.
Examples: .docx, .xlsx, .pdf, .jpg
33. Cloud Computing
Definition: Storing and accessing data/programs over the internet.
Example: Google Drive, iCloud
34. Digital Citizenship
Definition: Responsible and appropriate technology use.
Example: Citing sources, avoiding cyberbullying
35. Copyright
Definition: Legal protection of creative work.
Example: Cannot copy someone’s music without permission
36. Phishing
Definition: Attempt to steal personal information by pretending to be trustworthy.
Example: Fake email asking for credit card info
37. Bluetooth
Definition: Short-range wireless communication.
Example: Wireless earbuds connecting to a phone
38. IoT (Internet of Things)
Definition: Everyday devices connected to the internet.
Examples: Smart fridge, smart thermostat, smart watch
39. Browser
Definition: Software used to access websites.
Examples: Chrome, Safari, Edge
40. URL (Uniform Resource Locator)
Definition: Web address used to locate internet resources.
Example: https://www.fbla-pbl.org