Tech Jargon Dictionary: A-Z Glossary for Seniors (100+ Terms Explained Simply)

Technology moves fast, and the jargon can feel like a foreign language. If you have ever felt lost when someone mentions "the cloud" or tells you to "clear your cache," you are not alone. Millions of people over 60 feel the same way.

That is exactly why we created this glossary. Below you will find over 100 common tech terms, each explained in one or two plain-English sentences. No complicated language, no assumptions about what you already know. Think of it as your personal tech dictionary you can bookmark and come back to any time.

Use the letter headings to jump to the section you need, or simply scroll through at your own pace.

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A

Ad Blocker — A small program you add to your web browser that stops advertisements from appearing on websites. It makes pages load faster and look less cluttered.

Algorithm — A set of step-by-step instructions that a computer follows to complete a task. When people say "the algorithm" on social media, they mean the rules that decide which posts you see first.

Android — The operating system (the main software) used by Samsung, Google Pixel, and many other phones and tablets. It is the main alternative to Apple's iPhone system.

App (Application) — A program you install on your phone, tablet, or computer to do a specific job. For example, a weather app shows you the forecast, and a banking app lets you check your account.

Attachment — A file (such as a photo or document) that you include with an email message. You "attach" it before sending so the other person can open it.

Autofill — A feature that automatically fills in forms on websites with information you have typed before, such as your name, address, or email. It saves time but you should make sure only you have access to your device.

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B

Backup — A spare copy of your files, photos, or documents stored in a separate place. If your computer breaks or a file gets deleted, you can restore it from the backup.

Bandwidth — The amount of data that can travel through your internet connection at one time. Think of it like a water pipe: a wider pipe (more bandwidth) lets more water (data) flow through at once.

Blog — A website or section of a website where someone regularly writes articles, much like an online journal or newspaper column. The one you are reading right now is a blog.

Bluetooth — A wireless technology that lets devices talk to each other over short distances, usually up to about 30 feet. It is commonly used to connect headphones, speakers, or a keyboard to your phone or computer. Learn more about Bluetooth.

Bookmark — A saved link to a website so you can find it again quickly, like placing a physical bookmark in a book. In most browsers, you click a small star icon to bookmark a page.

Browser — The program you use to visit websites on the internet. Common browsers include Google Chrome, Safari, Microsoft Edge, and Firefox.

Bug — An error or flaw in a piece of software that causes it to behave unexpectedly. When a company releases an "update to fix bugs," they are correcting these mistakes.

Byte — A tiny unit of digital information. Everything on your computer, from a photo to a song, is stored as bytes. A kilobyte (KB) is about a thousand bytes, a megabyte (MB) is about a million, and a gigabyte (GB) is about a billion.

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C

Cache — A hidden storage area where your device saves copies of things you have recently viewed (like web pages or images) so they load faster next time. Clearing the cache means deleting these temporary copies.

Cellular Data — The internet connection your phone uses when it is not connected to WiFi, provided by your phone carrier (like Verizon or AT&T). It uses the same network as your phone calls.

Click — Pressing a button on your mouse (or tapping on a touchscreen) to select something on screen. A "double-click" means pressing twice quickly.

Cloud (The Cloud) — A way of storing files, photos, and other data on powerful computers located somewhere else (not on your device) that you access through the internet. Services like Google Drive, iCloud, and Dropbox all use the cloud. Read our full explanation of the cloud.

Cookie — A small piece of data that a website saves on your computer to remember things about you, such as your login details or what is in your shopping cart. They are generally harmless but are the reason you see "Accept Cookies" messages.

Copy and Paste — A way to duplicate text, images, or files. You "copy" something to a temporary holding area, then "paste" it wherever you want. On a computer keyboard, you press Ctrl+C to copy and Ctrl+V to paste (or Cmd+C and Cmd+V on a Mac).

CPU (Central Processing Unit) — The main "brain" of your computer or phone that carries out instructions and calculations. A faster CPU generally means your device can do things more quickly.

Crash — When a program or device suddenly stops working. You might see the screen freeze or the program close on its own. Restarting the device often fixes it.

Cursor — The small arrow or blinking line on your screen that shows where your mouse is pointing or where text will appear when you type.

Cybersecurity — The practice of protecting computers, phones, and online accounts from theft, damage, or unauthorized access. Using strong passwords and keeping software up to date are basic cybersecurity steps.

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D

Dashboard — A main screen in an app or website that gives you an overview of important information at a glance, much like the dashboard in your car shows speed and fuel.

Data — Any information stored or processed by a computer. Your photos, emails, documents, and even the words on this page are all forms of data.

Default — The standard setting that a device or program uses unless you change it. For example, your phone's default browser is the one that opens automatically when you tap a web link.

Desktop — The main screen you see when you turn on your computer, where you find icons for your programs and files. It can also refer to a desktop computer (the kind that sits on a desk, as opposed to a laptop).

DNS (Domain Name System) — The system that translates website names (like techfor60s.com) into the number codes that computers actually use to find each other. Think of it as the internet's phone book.

Download — Copying a file from the internet or another device onto your own device. When you save a photo from a website or get an app from the App Store, you are downloading it.

Drag and Drop — Moving something on your screen by clicking on it, holding the button down, sliding it to a new spot, and then releasing. It is like picking up a piece of paper and placing it somewhere else on your desk.

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E

Email (Electronic Mail) — Messages sent and received over the internet. Gmail, Outlook, and Yahoo Mail are popular email services. It works much like regular post, but arrives in seconds.

Emoji — Small pictures or symbols you can add to text messages, emails, and social media posts to express feelings or ideas. The smiley face and thumbs-up sign are popular examples.

Encryption — A security method that scrambles your data so that only the intended person can read it. When a website uses encryption (you will see a small padlock icon in the address bar), your information is protected from snoopers.

Ethernet — A wired internet connection that uses a cable plugged directly from your router into your computer. It is often faster and more reliable than WiFi.

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F

Fiber (Fiber Optic Internet) — A type of very fast internet connection that sends data using light through thin glass cables. If it is available in your area, it is usually the fastest option.

Firewall — A security system that monitors and controls what information is allowed to enter or leave your computer or network. Think of it as a security guard standing between your device and the internet.

Firmware — Permanent software built into a device (like your router or smart TV) that controls how it works. Firmware updates improve the device or fix problems.

Flash Drive (USB Stick) — A small, portable storage device you plug into a USB port on your computer to save or transfer files. They are about the size of your thumb, which is why they are sometimes called thumb drives.

Folder — A place on your computer where you organize and store files, just like a folder in a filing cabinet.

Freeze — When your device or a program stops responding to anything you do. The screen may appear stuck. Usually waiting a moment or restarting the device will fix it.

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G

GB (Gigabyte) — A unit of digital storage equal to about one billion bytes. A typical smartphone might have 64 GB or 128 GB of storage, which is enough for thousands of photos and dozens of apps.

GIF — A type of image file that can show a short, repeating animation, like a few seconds of a funny clip that plays over and over. Pronounced either "gif" (hard G) or "jif" (like the peanut butter) depending on who you ask.

GPS (Global Positioning System) — A satellite-based system that tells your phone or car exactly where you are on Earth. It is the technology behind map apps and turn-by-turn directions.

Graphics Card — A component inside a computer that handles displaying images and video on the screen. For most everyday tasks like email and web browsing, you do not need to worry about this.

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H

Hacker — Someone who tries to break into computer systems or accounts without permission, usually to steal information or cause damage. Protecting yourself with strong passwords and careful browsing habits helps keep hackers out.

Hard Drive — The part of your computer where all your files, programs, and the operating system are permanently stored. Newer computers use a faster type called an SSD (Solid State Drive).

HDMI — A type of cable and port used to send picture and sound from one device to another. For example, you use an HDMI cable to connect a laptop to a TV screen.

Home Screen — The first screen you see when you unlock your phone or tablet, where your most-used app icons are displayed.

Hotspot — A place where you can connect to the internet wirelessly, or a feature on your phone that lets other devices use your phone's cellular data as a WiFi connection.

HTTP / HTTPS — The rules computers use to send web pages to your browser. HTTPS (the "S" stands for Secure) means the connection is encrypted and safer. Always look for "https" and a padlock icon when entering personal information on a website.

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I

Icon — A small picture on your screen that represents a program, file, or function. Tapping or clicking an icon opens whatever it represents.

Inbox — The main area in your email where new messages arrive, like a physical mailbox for your digital letters.

Install — To put a new program or app onto your device so you can use it. You typically install apps from an app store or download programs from a website.

Internet — A massive, worldwide network connecting billions of computers and devices, allowing them to share information. When you visit a website, send an email, or watch a video online, you are using the internet.

Internet Service Provider (ISP) — The company you pay to give you access to the internet at home, such as Comcast, BT, or Sky. They are the ones who provide the connection that comes into your house.

iOS — The operating system that runs on iPhones and iPads, made by Apple. If you have an iPhone, your phone uses iOS.

IP Address — A unique number assigned to every device connected to the internet, much like a postal address for your computer. It helps data find its way to the right device.

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J

Jailbreak — Modifying a phone or tablet to remove restrictions set by the manufacturer, allowing you to install apps and make changes that are not normally allowed. This voids your warranty and can create security risks, so it is generally not recommended.

JPEG (or JPG) — One of the most common file formats for photographs and images. When you take a picture with your phone, it is often saved as a JPEG file.

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K

Keyboard Shortcut — A combination of keys you press at the same time to quickly perform an action. For example, Ctrl+P (or Cmd+P on Mac) opens the print window. Learning a few shortcuts can save you a lot of time.

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L

LAN (Local Area Network) — A network that connects devices in a small area, like your home. Your WiFi network at home is a type of LAN.

Link (Hyperlink) — A clickable word, phrase, or image on a website or in an email that takes you to another page or website. Links are often shown in blue or underlined text.

Live Stream — Video that is broadcast over the internet in real time, as it is happening. Watching a church service or grandchild's concert online as it occurs is an example of live streaming. Learn more about streaming.

Lock Screen — The screen you see before unlocking your phone, tablet, or computer. It usually shows the time and date and requires a password, PIN, or fingerprint to get past.

Log In (Sign In) — The process of entering your username and password to access an account or device. "Log out" (or "sign out") means ending that session.

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M

Malware — Short for "malicious software." Any program designed to harm your device, steal your information, or cause problems. Viruses, spyware, and ransomware are all types of malware.

Memory (RAM) — See RAM below. In everyday language, people sometimes also use "memory" to mean storage space, but technically they are different things.

Menu — A list of options or commands in a program, usually found at the top of the screen or behind a small icon (often three horizontal lines, called a "hamburger menu").

Metadata — Information about other information. For example, a digital photo's metadata might include the date it was taken, the camera used, and the location. You usually do not see metadata unless you specifically look for it.

Modem — A device provided by your internet service provider that brings the internet connection into your home. It is often a small box with blinking lights. Your modem connects to your router, which then shares that connection with your devices.

Monitor — The screen you look at when using a desktop computer. It is similar to a television screen but designed for computer use.

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N

Network — A group of computers or devices connected to each other so they can share information. Your home WiFi network is an example. Read our guide to WiFi.

Notification — A message or alert that pops up on your phone, tablet, or computer to tell you something, such as a new email, a reminder, or a news update. You can usually control which apps are allowed to send notifications in your settings.

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O

Offline — Not connected to the internet. When your device is offline, you can still use some apps and features but cannot browse websites, send emails, or stream video.

Online — Connected to the internet and able to access websites, send messages, and use internet-based services.

Operating System (OS) — The main software that runs your device and lets all your apps work. Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android are all operating systems. Think of it as the foundation that everything else is built on.

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P

Password — A secret word or phrase you type to prove you are the rightful owner of an account or device. Strong passwords use a mix of letters, numbers, and special characters and are hard for others to guess.

Password Manager — A program that securely stores all your passwords in one place, so you only need to remember one master password. Examples include LastPass and 1Password.

PDF (Portable Document Format) — A common file format that preserves the exact layout of a document, so it looks the same on any device. Receipts, forms, and manuals are often shared as PDFs.

Phishing — A scam where someone pretends to be a trustworthy source (like your bank or a well-known company) to trick you into giving away personal information such as passwords or credit card numbers. These often arrive as fake emails or text messages.

Pixel — A tiny dot of color on a screen. Your display is made up of millions of pixels. The more pixels, the sharper and more detailed the image looks.

Podcast — An audio program (like a radio show) that you can listen to on your phone or computer at any time. Episodes are usually free and cover every topic imaginable. Our guide to streaming explains more.

Pop-up — A small window that suddenly appears on your screen, usually containing an advertisement or a message. Most browsers have built-in pop-up blockers to prevent these.

Port — A socket or plug on your device where you connect cables or accessories. Common ports include USB, HDMI, and headphone jacks.

Profile — Your personal page or account information on a website or app. Your Facebook profile, for example, shows your name, photo, and posts.

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Q

QR Code (Quick Response Code) — A square barcode made up of black and white patterns that your phone's camera can scan to quickly open a website, menu, or other information. Restaurants often use QR codes for digital menus. Learn how to scan QR codes.

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R

RAM (Random Access Memory) — Temporary, fast memory your device uses while it is running programs. More RAM means your device can handle more tasks at the same time without slowing down. Unlike storage, RAM is emptied when you turn off your device.

Reboot (Restart) — Turning a device off and then on again. This simple step fixes a surprising number of tech problems because it clears temporary errors.

Router — A device that takes the internet signal from your modem and shares it wirelessly (via WiFi) with all the devices in your home, such as phones, tablets, and computers. Learn more about WiFi and routers.

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S

Scam — A dishonest scheme designed to cheat you out of money or personal information. Tech scams often arrive as phone calls, emails, or pop-up messages claiming your computer has a virus.

Screenshot — A picture of exactly what is on your screen at a given moment. On most phones, you press the power and volume buttons at the same time. On a Windows computer, press the Print Screen key.

Scroll — Moving up or down on a page to see more content. You can scroll using the wheel on your mouse, the trackpad on a laptop, or by swiping your finger on a touchscreen.

Search Engine — A website that helps you find information on the internet by typing in words or questions. Google, Bing, and Yahoo are popular search engines.

Server — A powerful computer that stores websites, apps, and data, and delivers them to your device when you request them. When you visit a website, your browser is talking to a server somewhere.

Settings — The area on your device or within an app where you can customize how things work, such as screen brightness, notification sounds, or privacy options. Usually represented by a gear icon.

SIM Card — A tiny chip inside your phone that connects it to your mobile phone network and stores your phone number. Without a SIM card, your phone cannot make calls or use cellular data.

Smart Home — A home where devices like lights, thermostats, doorbells, and locks are connected to the internet and can be controlled with your phone or voice. Products from brands like Amazon (Alexa) and Google (Nest) are popular smart home devices.

Smartphone — A mobile phone that can do much more than make calls, including browsing the internet, taking photos, running apps, and sending emails. iPhones and Samsung Galaxy phones are common examples.

Software — Programs and apps that run on your computer, phone, or tablet. Microsoft Word, Google Chrome, and the Facebook app are all software. Software is different from hardware, which is the physical device you can touch.

Spam — Unwanted messages, usually email, sent in bulk. Spam often contains advertisements or scams. Most email services have a spam folder that catches these automatically.

Storage — The space on your device where files, photos, apps, and other data are kept permanently (until you delete them). Measured in gigabytes (GB) or terabytes (TB).

Streaming — Watching video or listening to audio directly over the internet without downloading the whole file first. Netflix, YouTube, and Spotify all use streaming. Our full guide to streaming explains everything.

Swipe — Sliding your finger across a touchscreen in a particular direction. For example, swiping up on your phone might open a menu, and swiping left or right might move between photos.

Sync (Synchronize) — Keeping the same information up to date across multiple devices automatically. For example, if you add a contact on your phone and it also appears on your tablet, your devices are syncing.

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T

Tablet — A portable device with a touchscreen that is larger than a phone but smaller and lighter than a laptop. iPads and Samsung Galaxy Tabs are popular examples.

Tap — Touching the screen once with your finger to select something, similar to clicking a mouse button on a computer.

Taskbar — The strip along the bottom (or sometimes the side) of your computer screen that shows which programs are open and often includes the clock and other small icons.

Text Message (SMS) — A short written message sent from one phone to another. SMS stands for Short Message Service.

Touchscreen — A screen you interact with by touching it directly with your fingers, rather than using a mouse or keyboard. Phones, tablets, and some laptops have touchscreens.

Troubleshoot — To find and fix a problem with a device or program. Common troubleshooting steps include restarting the device, checking your internet connection, and making sure software is up to date.

Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) — An extra security step when logging in. After entering your password, you also enter a code sent to your phone or email. This makes it much harder for someone else to break into your account, even if they know your password.

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U

Uninstall — To remove a program or app from your device. This frees up storage space and is safe to do for apps you no longer use.

Update — A new version of software that fixes problems, adds features, or improves security. It is important to install updates when they become available because they often fix security holes that hackers could exploit.

Upload — Sending a file from your device to the internet or another device. When you post a photo on Facebook or attach a file to an email, you are uploading it.

URL (Uniform Resource Locator) — The address of a web page, which you type into your browser's address bar. For example, techfor60s.com is a URL.

USB (Universal Serial Bus) — A standard type of plug and port used to connect devices like printers, flash drives, keyboards, and chargers to your computer. USB-C is a newer, smaller version of this plug that is becoming very common.

Username — The name you choose (or are given) to identify yourself when logging into a website or app. It is often your email address or a name you pick, like "GardenLover52."

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V

Video Call — A phone call where you can see the other person on your screen, and they can see you. Zoom, FaceTime, and WhatsApp all offer video calling.

Virus — A type of malicious software (malware) that can copy itself and spread to other devices, potentially damaging files or stealing information. Using antivirus software and being careful about what you click helps protect you.

Voice Assistant — Software that listens to your voice and responds to commands or questions. Siri (Apple), Alexa (Amazon), and Google Assistant are well-known examples. You can ask them to set timers, play music, check the weather, and much more.

VPN (Virtual Private Network) — A service that creates a secure, private connection between your device and the internet. It hides your online activity from others and is especially useful on public WiFi. Read our guide to VPNs.

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W

Webcam — A small camera built into or attached to your computer or laptop that lets you make video calls or record video. Most modern laptops have a webcam built into the top of the screen.

Website — A collection of web pages on the internet, usually run by one person or organization. You visit websites using your browser by typing in their URL or clicking a link.

Widget — A small, simple tool or display on your phone's home screen or computer desktop that shows useful information without opening a full app. A weather widget, for example, shows the current temperature right on your home screen.

WiFi — A wireless technology that lets your devices connect to the internet without physical cables. Your router broadcasts a WiFi signal in your home that your phone, tablet, and computer can all use. Our complete WiFi guide explains everything.

Window — A rectangular area on your computer screen where a program or file is displayed. You can usually have multiple windows open at the same time and switch between them.

Wireless — Any technology that works without physical cables. WiFi, Bluetooth, and cellular data are all wireless technologies.

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X, Y, Z

YouTube — A free website and app where people upload and watch videos on every subject imaginable, from cooking tutorials to music and news. It is owned by Google.

Zip File — A file that has been compressed (made smaller) so it takes up less space and is faster to send. You need to "unzip" or "extract" it before you can use the files inside.

Zoom — A popular video calling app that lets you have face-to-face conversations with one person or a large group over the internet. It became especially popular during the pandemic for family calls, doctor appointments, and group meetings.

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Bonus: Common Phrases Explained

Here are a few tech phrases you might hear in conversation that can be confusing:

"It's in the cloud" — Your file or photo is stored on someone else's computer (a server) that you access over the internet, not on your physical device.

"Have you tried turning it off and on again?" — Restarting a device clears temporary problems. It genuinely solves most everyday tech issues.

"You need to update your software" — There is a newer version of a program available that you should install for better performance and security.

"Check your WiFi connection" — Make sure your device is connected to your wireless internet. If something is not loading, a lost WiFi connection is often the cause.

"Your storage is full" — Your device has run out of space to save new files, photos, or apps. You will need to delete things you no longer need or move files to the cloud or an external drive.

"It went to spam" — An expected email was automatically sorted into the junk/spam folder rather than your inbox. Check that folder if you are missing a message.

"Clear your cache" — Delete the temporary files your browser or app has stored. This can fix strange behavior on websites and free up a bit of space.

"You've been phished" — Someone tricked you into clicking a fake link or giving away personal information. Change your passwords immediately and contact your bank if financial details were involved.

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How to Use This Glossary

Here are a few tips for getting the most out of this page:

1. Bookmark this page so you can come back to it whenever you encounter an unfamiliar term. In most browsers, press Ctrl+D (or Cmd+D on a Mac) to add a bookmark.
2. Use your browser's search function to find a specific word quickly. Press Ctrl+F (or Cmd+F on Mac), type the term, and your browser will jump straight to it.
3. Share it with friends who might also find it helpful. You can send the link to this page via email or text message.
4. Check our other guides for deeper explanations of topics like WiFi, Bluetooth, the cloud, VPNs, streaming, and QR codes.

Technology does not have to be intimidating. Every expert was once a beginner, and knowing the right words makes everything else easier. Keep this glossary handy, and the next time someone throws around tech jargon, you will know exactly what they mean.