Technology, defined in plain English

A set of steps for completing a task. Think of a recipe: follow the instructions in order and you get a result. Computers use algorithms to sort information, suggest videos and find routes.

Software & Development

An API is a way for two different computer systems to communicate with each other. Imagine you're in a restaurant. You tell the waiter what you want to eat. The waiter takes your request to the kitchen and brings back the food when it's ready. An API works in a similar way. One computer system sends a request to another system, and the API provides an agreed way to ask for information or an action and receive a response. This happens behind the scenes in many websites and apps.

Software & Development

A browser extension adds features to your web browser.

Software & Development

Cloud computing means using computer services that are provided over the internet instead of relying entirely on equipment you own. Imagine renting a storage unit rather than building an extra room onto your house. You can use the space without having to construct and maintain the building yourself. Cloud computing follows a similar idea. Companies provide storage, software and computing power using their own equipment. You connect to these services over the internet. The cloud isn't actually in the sky. The information is stored and processed on real computers in buildings called data centres.

Cloud Computing

A database is an organized place where a computer stores information so it can be found and updated easily. Think about a library. Books are organized so that you can find a particular title or author without searching through every book in the building. A database works in a similar way with digital information. It helps computer systems store details such as names, appointments, orders or payments and retrieve them when needed.

Data & Analytics

File syncing keeps copies of files updated across devices or locations.

Cloud Computing

Harmful software designed to interfere with a device, steal information or cause damage. It can arrive through unsafe downloads, infected attachments or other weaknesses. Keeping software updated helps reduce risk.

Cybersecurity

A program made to run on a smartphone or tablet. Apps help you do particular tasks, such as messaging, banking or checking the weather. Some need internet access; others work partly offline.

General Business Technology

The main software that helps a phone, tablet or computer run. It manages the device and lets other apps work. Windows, macOS, Android and iOS are examples.

General Business Technology

Controls that let you choose how an app or service uses or shares some of your information. They may determine who sees your posts, whether an app uses your location or which notifications you receive. Review them occasionally.

Cybersecurity

Software as a Service, usually called SaaS and pronounced “sass,” means using a computer program that another company provides and maintains over the internet. Think about subscribing to a movie streaming service. You don't need to own all the equipment used to store and deliver the movies. You sign in and use the service. SaaS works in a similar way with software. Instead of installing and maintaining every program yourself, you use an application that the provider operates. Examples include online email, appointment-booking systems and some accounting tools.

Cloud Computing

A new version or fix for a program or device system. Updates may repair security problems, fix mistakes or add features. Installing trusted updates promptly is an important safety habit.

General Business Technology

A spreadsheet organizes information in rows and columns and can perform calculations.

Data & Analytics