RAID Redundant array of
independent disks. System
for storing data efficiently and
automatically backing up computer
hard drives.
RAM Random-access memory.
The computer’s working area,
used for data storage while the
PC is switched on. Its capacity is
measured in megabytes (MB):
the more memory your PC has,
the more things it can process
simultaneously and the faster it
will seem. Any information in RAM
will be lost when the power is
switched off.
Read To access data saved on a
computer.
Refresh rate Measured in
Hertz (Hz), the number of times
per second that the image on
your monitor is redrawn. Slight
changes in the image each time
it is updated combine to give the
illusion of movement. For a steady
image, the higher the refresh rate,
the less flicker you will see.
Sans-serif A font that doesn’t
have strokes in letters. Considered
to look simpler and more modern
that serif fonts, particularly when
used online.Script A short program that is
stored on a web server to control
part of a website. For example, a
script could check that a date you
have entered is valid, or move
words across the screen.SIM Subscriber Identity Module.
The smart card used by all digital
mobile phones.sRGB A standard RGB colour
space for use on monitors,
printers and the internet.SSD Solid-state drive. Storage that
uses no moving parts. Faster but
more expensive than conventional
hard drives.Thunderbolt A very fast port for
connecting external storage to a
computer. Can be used to connect
monitors, a network and more.Torrent A file that can be
downloaded using BitTorrent
software. This method is generally
faster than a normal download,
which provides a direct connection
to other PCs running the software
anywhere in the world. Torrent
files are not illegal but record
and film companies claim many
are illegal copies of copyright-
protected material.Two-factor authentication
A system that uses two different
means to identify the user. For
example, a code sent to your
phone in addition to a password.UEFI Unified Extensible Firmware
Interface. A modern replacement
for the BIOS, designed to get a PC
into a state where it can launch an
operating system.USB 2.0/3.0/3.1 Faster successors
to USB.USB-C A new connector that’s
reversible, letting you plug it in
upside down.VPN Virtual private network.
Keeps all internet communication
safe and private.Virtual file An encrypted disk
inside a normal file.Virtual reality Computer-
generated simulation of a three-
dimensional object or environment
that you can interact with by
wearing a headset.Virtual server A server that’s
based online, and shared by
multiple users who each have
control over it.Whitelist A list of allowed
websites, email addresses and
programs used by security
software to ensure you only visit
safe websites and download safe
programs.Wi-Fi 6 Wi-Fi standard with
speeds up to 10 times faster than
802.11ac. Also called 802.11ax.Write Save data to a hard drive.