The Computer Science Glossary

20 Terms and definitions of the field "Computer Science" terms

Computer science is a large and dynamic field that offers a lot of opportunities to work in, especially for people who are passionate about technology and problem solving. It principally teaches the functioning of computers through theory and practice. Computer science is nowadays used everywhere, like hospitals, schools, transports and every industry that has a presence on the Internet or that uses technology. Currently, computer science is mostly indispensable. It is in fact used to improve our daily lives by solving problems, thinking critically, and creating innovative solutions for a better future.

application
noun
An end-user program designed to perform a specific function.
Example: I coded a mini-APPLICATION made with Java that helps people organizing their schedules.
en: application
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backup
noun
The procedure for making extra copies of data in case the original is lost or damaged.
Example: We need to create a BACKUP copy of every file that we don't want to lose.
en: sauvegarde
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blog
noun
A regularly updated website or web page, typically one run by an individual or small group, that is written in an informal or conversational style.
Example: It's a BLOG that you can look at, it provides a lot of good recipes.
en: blog
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browser
noun
A program that can display HTML files, used to navigate the World Wide Web.
Example: If the BROWSER you're using is having problems, try to clear the BROWSER'S cache.
en: navigateur
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cloud computing
noun
The practice of using a network of remote servers hosted on the Internet to store, manage, and process data, rather than a local server or a personal computer.
Example: CLOUD COMPUTING changes the way companies store and access data.
en: informatique en nuage
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computer science
noun
An academic field that studies the theoretical foundations of information and computation and their implementation and application in computer systems.
Example: As a COMPUTER SCIENCE student I hasten to add that the process of SSM seems to be quite costly (in theory it's never ending), thus consuming valuable software development time.
en: informatique
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cursor
noun
A movable pointer on a computer screen identifying the position that will be affected by clicking a mouse button or where typed text will be inserted.
Example: Position the CURSOR in the previous line with your mouse.
en: curseur
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data
noun
Distinct pieces of formatted information.
Example: Industries like banks should reinforce the protection and security of their customer's DATA.
en: données
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database
noun
A collection of information that is organized so that it can easily be accessed, managed, and updated.
Example: We need to use a DATABASE so that our customers' data can be saved in our server.
en: base de données
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encryption
noun
The transformation of electronic information into an unreadable state by using algorithms over a network.
Example: The file needs to be ENCRYPTED before sent to avoid any interception by a malicious user.
en: cryptage
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hardware
noun
A set of physical objects such as a tower, monitor, keyboard, mouse, and so on.
Example: There has been a general breakdown on the computer network due to defective HARDWARE.
en: matériel
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internet
noun
A large computer network that facilitates the exchange and transfer of data between computers.
Example: We can find almost everything that we need on the INTERNET by a few clicks.
en: internet
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network
noun
A group of computers connected to each other in order to send and receive data.
Example: Google constantly analyzes data across the Google NETWORK.
en: réseau
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query
noun
A request made by a computer to a database.
Example: Write a QUERY in the database file to get all the names of our customers.
en: requête
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router
noun
A device that forwards data packets along networks and located where two or more networks connect.
Example: I restarted the ROUTER to fix the internet connection problem.
en: routeur
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script
noun
A list of commands that can be executed without user interaction.
Example: This SCRIPT renames all the files in the folder.
en: script
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server
noun
A computer or computer program that manages access to a centralized resource or service in a network.
Example: The SERVER often returns an error bloc of code if the request is for a page that doesn't exist on the SERVER.
en: serveur
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software
noun
A program containing computer code that directs hardware to carry out a range of functions.
Example: These are special SOFTWARE programs for data analyzing in databases.
en: logiciel
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url
noun
The unique resource locator address for a file that is accessible on the Internet.
Example: Can you send me the URL of the website please?
en: url
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virus
noun
A program that can copy itself and corrupt the computer system or destroy data.
Example: A VIRUS infiltrated our computer network, so we need to get rid of it as soon as possible before things get worse.
en: virus
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