Computer Glossary

Understand computer terminology and technical specifications with our comprehensive glossary. Perfect for beginners and anyone looking to make informed purchasing decisions.

Hardware
Storage
Software
Performance
Connectivity
System
Display

Showing 20 of 20 terms

Hardware
CPU (Central Processing Unit)
The main processor of a computer that executes instructions and performs calculations. Often called the 'brain' of the computer.
Hardware
RAM (Random Access Memory)
Temporary storage that holds data and programs currently in use. More RAM allows for better multitasking and faster performance.
Storage
SSD (Solid State Drive)
A storage device with no moving parts that provides faster data access than traditional hard drives. Improves boot times and file loading.
Hardware
GPU (Graphics Processing Unit)
Specialized processor designed to handle graphics and visual processing. Essential for gaming, video editing, and 3D rendering.
Hardware
Motherboard
The main circuit board that connects all computer components together. Houses the CPU, RAM slots, and expansion slots.
Software
Operating System (OS)
Software that manages computer hardware and provides a platform for other programs. Examples include Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Performance
Gigahertz (GHz)
Unit of measurement for processor speed. Higher GHz generally means faster processing, though architecture also matters.
Connectivity
USB (Universal Serial Bus)
Standard connection interface for peripherals like keyboards, mice, and external drives. USB-C is the latest standard.
System
BIOS/UEFI
Firmware that initializes hardware during boot process. UEFI is the modern replacement for traditional BIOS.
Performance
Cache
High-speed memory that stores frequently accessed data for quick retrieval. Found in CPUs and storage devices.
Connectivity
Bandwidth
The amount of data that can be transmitted over a network connection in a given time period, usually measured in Mbps or Gbps.
Performance
Thermal Throttling
Automatic reduction of processor speed when temperatures get too high to prevent damage. Indicates cooling issues.
Hardware
Form Factor
The size and shape specification of computer components. Examples include ATX for motherboards and 2.5" for SSDs.
Display
Refresh Rate
How many times per second a display updates its image, measured in Hz. Higher refresh rates provide smoother motion.
Performance
Latency
The delay between a request and response in a system. Lower latency means more responsive performance.
Performance
Overclocking
Running computer components at higher speeds than their default specifications to increase performance.
Software
Driver
Software that allows the operating system to communicate with specific hardware components.
Storage
Partition
A logical division of a storage drive that appears as a separate drive to the operating system.
System
Firmware
Low-level software stored in hardware that provides basic operational instructions for devices.
Performance
Bottleneck
A component that limits overall system performance. Often occurs when one component is much slower than others.

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