People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria

Ministry of Higher Education & Scientific Research

University of Algiers I Department of computer science
First year (License degree) Module: English (Foreign language)

Sixth lesson: “Computer Vocabulary – Part II”

Here is the second part of our 'Computer Vocabulary' lesson!

Today, we'll explore essential terms covering various aspects of computing—from data
storage and management to the basics of networking and communication, as well as key
actions and commands in computer use.
This lesson provides an opportunity to learn and understand computing words, terms, and
concepts. Students can write down these terms in a notebook, practice using them, and
translate them into French. This will enable them to discuss this field of study fluently and
accurately in both French and English, allowing them to access relevant information and
reliable resources in both languages.

1- Data Storage and Management:

The processes and technologies used to store, organize, and maintain digital data securely
and efficiently.
Backup: A copy of a program or file that is stored separately from the original.
Bit: A fundamental unit of information having just two possible values, as either of the
binary digits 0 or 1.
Byte: A sequence of adjacent bits, usually eight, operated on as a unit by a computer.
Cache: A small high-speed memory that improves computer performance.
CD-ROM: A compact disc that functions as read-only memory.
File: A collection of related data or program records stored as a unit with a single name.
Flash Drive: A small electronic device containing flash memory that is used for storing
data or transferring it to or from a computer, digital camera, etc.
Format: To prepare (a computer disk) so that it can store information in a particular
format.
RAM: This stands for Random Access Memory, a type of computer memory that can be
accessed randomly.
2- Networking and Communication:
The systems and protocols that enable computers and devices to connect, share resources,
and exchange information.
Email: Electronic mail; messages sent or received from one computer to another.
Network: A group of interconnected computers and devices that can share resources and
information.
Router: A device that forwards data packets between computer networks.
URL: This stands for Uniform Resource Locator, the address of a resource on the Internet.
Wi-Fi: A technology that allows computers and other devices to communicate over a
wireless signal.
3- User Interface:
Icon: A picture on a screen that represents a specific file, directory, window, option, or
program.
Copy: Duplicate the contents of a document or file.
Cut: Remove a part of a document or graphics file.
Paste: Insert (text, graphics, or other data) into a document or file.
DOS: This stands for Disk Operating System, a computer processing system for
computers.
4- Programming Language:
A formal language used to communicate instructions to a computer.
Compiler: A program that translates code from a high-level programming language to a
lower-level language.
Interpreter: A program that executes instructions written in a programming language
directly, without requiring them to be compiled into machine code.
Debugging: The process of finding and fixing defects or problems within a program.
Source Code: The human-readable instructions written in a programming language.
Algorithm: A step-by-step procedure or formula for solving a problem, often used in
programming.
5- Computer-Related Phrases and Collocations
* Boot up: To start a computer and load its operating system.
* Log in: Typically emphasizes entering credentials (username and password) to access a
secure system, such as an account or a restricted network.
* Log on: Can sometimes refer more broadly to accessing a network or starting a session,
which may or may not require credentials.
* Log out: Often implies ending a session in an application or account, especially on
websites or online services. It's commonly used in web-based environments (e.g., "log out"
of an email account).
* Log off: Typically used to indicate closing a session on an entire system, such as logging
off a computer or server, rather than just an individual application.
* Set up: To install and configure hardware or software on a computer.
* Shut down: To turn off a computer.
* Run a program: To execute or start a software application on a computer.
* Install software: To place a program on a computer so it can be used.
* Uninstall software: To remove a program from a computer.
* Download a file: To transfer a file from the internet or another computer to your own
device.
* Upload a file: To transfer a file from your computer to the internet or another device.
* Crash: When a computer or program stops working suddenly and unexpectedly.
* Freeze: When a computer or program becomes unresponsive and stops functioning.
* Reboot: To restart a computer.
* Surf the web: To browse and navigate through websites on the internet.
* Back up data: To make a copy of data stored on a computer to prevent loss.
* Update software: To install the latest version of a program to improve performance or
fix issues.
* Browse the internet: To look through web pages and websites online.
* Cut and paste: To move text or data from one place to another on a computer.
* Copy and paste: To duplicate text or data from one place and insert it in another.
* Plug in: To connect a device to a power source or another device.
* Hard drive: The primary storage device in a computer used to store data permanently.
* Cloud storage: A service that allows you to save data on remote servers accessed from
the internet.
* User-friendly: Easy to use or understand, often describing software or devices.