Hosting Glossary: Understanding Key Terms and Concepts

refers to a collection of data or information organized under a specific name and stored in a computer’s folder. File is also commonly used to talk about things related to a file, such as file name, file size, etc.

Is a graphical user interface (GUI) application in Microsoft Windows operating systems that allows users to browse and manage files and folders on their computer. It provides an easy-to-use interface to navigate through the file system, view files, copy, move, delete, and perform various file-related tasks.

is a suffix attached to the end of a filename to indicate the type or format of the file. It is typically separated from the rest of the filename by a dot (period). File extensions are used by the operating system and applications to determine how to handle and open a file.

A network security device that controls incoming and outgoing network traffic.

The software that is embedded in a computer's hardware.

is a non-volatile memory chip used for storage and for transfering data between a personal computer (PC) and digital devices. It has the ability to be electronically reprogrammed and erased. It is often found in USB flash drives, MP3 players, digital cameras and solid-state drives.

A floppy disk or floppy diskette is a type of disk storage composed of a thin and flexible disk of a magnetic storage medium in a square or nearly square plastic enclosure lined with a fabric that removes dust particles from the spinning disk.

a sub-division of a computer's hard disk into which you put files

The process of collecting and analyzing digital evidence.

All hard disks and floppy disks have to be electronically prepared for use by a process called formatting. Hard disks are pre-formatted by the computer manufacturer. If you buy a floppy disk that is not pre-formatted, you format it yourself, using a program that comes with your PC.