The Computer Science's Glossary

This glossary is about items that are related to Computer Science. It can be really useful for someone who starts studying in this domain. The source I used to find my definitions was Antidote, and I also use Antidote's semantic field to find the words that I chose to mention in this glossary.

system: noun; The main software of a computer that allows other programs to be installed and run.; Example: To install a more advanced operating system.; fr: système
software: noun; A computer program or programs that are designed to do a particular function or job.; Example: Antidote is a complete set of software reference tools to help improve an individual’s writing.; fr: logiciel
hardware: noun; The machinery, wiring, electronic parts and other physical components of a computer system.; Example: She would need to have most of her computer’s hardware repaired, if not replaced.; fr: matériel
adapter: noun; A device used to connect numerous electric plugs into one socket.; Example: The plug is in the adapter.; fr: adaptateur
interface: noun; The way in which a computer program displays information the user, or how the information that user enters is received.; Example: Firefox has an easy to use interface.; fr: interface
server: noun; The main computer or computer program that completes requests from other machines or programs.; Example: These computers where shutdown because the server had a problem.; fr: serveur
configuration: noun; The arrangement of elements like hardware and software in order for a computer system to operate properly.; Example: LiveCD and LiveDVD images contain a bootable compressed file system, created by a set of custom scripts using a kickstart configuration file.; fr: configuration
database: noun; An organized set of data that is stored in a computer and can be studied, used or analyzed in various ways.; Example: To enter information into a database.; fr: base de données
firewall: noun; A program that is designed to protect a computer network from viruses or to prevent people from gaining access without permission to do so.; Example: This hacker was able to get trough the college's firewall.; fr: pare-feu
processor: noun; A CPU or central processing unit.; Example: This old computer's processor is the slowest.; fr: processeur
spreadsheet: noun; A computer program in which you enter data in columns and rows in order to calculate costs, expenses, etc.; Example: Spreadsheets are an integral part of financial planning.; fr: tableur
update: noun; A change or addition to a computer program or file that provides the most recent information.; Example: You must restart the computer for the updates to take effect.; fr: mise à jour
download: noun; A file that someone has copied from the Internet onto a hard drive, memory card, etc.; Example: Most of my music is downloads.; fr: téléchargement
emulator: noun; A piece of computer software or hardware that makes it possible to run programs designed for another type of system.; Example: This emulator allows be to play my favorite GameBoy games on my phone.; fr: émulateur
touchscreen: noun; A display screen on a device that allows the user to interact with the device by touching parts of the screen.; Example: All recent smartphones have a touchscreen.; fr: écran tactile
add-on: noun; A software application that integrates with another application and extends its functions.; Example: I use chrome add-ons to get new features.; fr: accessoire
feature: noun; A function of a device.; Example: A van equipped with many safety features.; fr: particularité
Extension: noun; The ending three letters of a file which determine what it is.; Example: You need a special program to open files with that extension.; fr: extension
compatible: adjective; (of an electronic device) That will function if used with a given piece of equipment.; Example: This old computer is still compatible with current platforms and software.; fr: compatible
install: verb; To store (software) in the memory of a computer and prepare it for use.; Example: I installed the newest version of the program on my computer.; fr: installer
compress: verb; To alter (electronic data) so that it occupies less storage space.; Example: The teacher compressed his documents into a ZIP file.; fr: compresser