App
A program on your phone, tablet, or computer that does a specific job, like email, weather, maps, photos, or video calls.
Reference
Tech Terms, Plain and Simple
A plain-English glossary for the words that come up in everyday technology, online safety, phones, computers, and accounts.
Quick Definitions You Can Actually Use
No jargon, no assumptions, and no dictionary-speak. Each term is explained the way you would want someone to explain it over the phone.
A
Authentication
The process of proving that you are really you when you sign in. A password is one kind of authentication. A code sent to your phone is another.
B
Bluetooth
A short-range wireless connection used for things like headphones, hearing aids, keyboards, speakers, and cars.
Browser
The app you use to visit websites. Chrome, Safari, Firefox, and Edge are all browsers.
C
Cache
Temporary saved files that help websites or apps load faster. Clearing the cache can sometimes fix a website that is acting strangely.
Cloud
A way to store files, photos, or backups on internet-connected servers instead of only on your device. iCloud, Google Drive, and OneDrive are examples.
Cookie
A small piece of information a website saves in your browser. Cookies can keep you signed in, remember preferences, or help websites track visits.
D
Data Breach
When private information from a company or website is exposed or stolen. It may include email addresses, passwords, phone numbers, or account details.
Download
To bring a file, photo, app, or document from the internet onto your phone, tablet, or computer.
E
Encryption
A way of scrambling information so only the right person, device, or service can read it. It helps protect messages, passwords, and bank activity.
M
Malware
Bad software designed to damage a device, steal information, show fake warnings, or spy on what you do.
MFA
Short for multi-factor authentication. It means using more than one proof to sign in, usually a password plus a code or approval prompt.
P
Password Manager
An app that safely stores your passwords so you do not have to remember every single one. It can also help create stronger passwords.
Phishing
A scam where someone sends a fake email, text, or website to trick you into giving away information or clicking a dangerous link.
Pop-Up
A small window or message that appears on top of what you are doing. Some are harmless, but scam pop-ups often pretend your device is infected.
S
Scam Text
A fake text message designed to scare you, rush you, or make you click a link. Common examples mention packages, bank alerts, tolls, or unpaid tickets.
Software Update
A newer version of an app or operating system. Updates often fix bugs and close security holes, so they are usually important.
Spam
Unwanted messages, usually sent to many people at once. Spam can be annoying, misleading, or sometimes dangerous.
T
Two-Factor Authentication
A sign-in protection that asks for two proofs, usually your password and a code sent to your phone or email.
V
VPN
A privacy tool that creates a protected connection between your device and the internet. It can be useful on public Wi-Fi.
W
Wi-Fi
The wireless network that lets your phone, tablet, or computer connect to the internet without a cable.
Website Address
The location of a website, usually starting with words like https://. It is also called a URL.
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