Open source software
It is normally free. The developers of open source software allow others to modify their programs to make them more useful or error-free.
Operating System
The software your computer needs to do everything. The most common operating system is windows - others include Mac and Linux.
Password
This should be known only to you the best passwords contain both letters and numbers. You need passwords to confirm your identity or access information private to you or to log on to certain websites. It’s advisable not to use the same password for everything to increase your security. When you type in your password it appears as asterisks (Stars), so that no one else can read it over your shoulder.
PC
Personal computer. PCs contain a processing chip, and an operating system by Microsoft. All PCs work in similar ways, but vary in speed and size.
PDA
Personal digital assistant. A computer that can be held in the hand sometimes called a palmtop.
PDF files
Stands for portable document format. These are read using Adobe Acrobat. You need to download Adobe Reader 9 or later to listen to PDF files.
Plugin
A small piece of software to add features or functions e.g. so that you can listen to music, or watch a film clip. Shockwave Flash and Adobe Acrobat are plugins. You may be given the opportunity on a webpage to download the relevant software.
Podcast
A broadcast from the BBC or another website which you can save onto your computer. You will need special software which is usually free.
Post a message
Put a message on interactive internet, where it can be read by a group of people.
Print
Make a paper copy of what is on the screen.
Printer
Equipment which prints out things from your computer. Inkjet printers are cheap to buy but fairly expensive to run because you will need to replace the inkjet cartridge (where the ink is stored) more often. Laser printers are more expensive but cheaper to run as the cartridge lasts longer. A Braille printer is called an embosser.
Processing chip
Also called a processor: The hardware that makes a computer work. All other hardware either stores data, or communicates with people or other computers.
Programs
Also software. Collections of instructions which make a computer do something.
Word
Processors, paint programs, computer games, browsers are all types of programs.
RAM
Another word for memory. It stands for Random Access Memory. The more you have the faster your computer will work and the more programs you can use at the same time.