Hi, my name is Abdullah Hussain and I’m in my first year of the program. This glossary is for everyone, but mostly for new students who are just starting the program. My topic is Computer Science. This glossary has 18 words that are used a lot in computer science. It can help people understand basic words that we use when talking about computers, coding, networks, and more. These words are useful at school and even in real life. To find the words, I used Google and looked for simple and clear definitions online. I hope this glossary helps you understand the topic better. Take your time reading the words and example sentences, so you can learn them well!
algorithm
noun
A set of instructions designed to solve a problem or perform a computation.
Example: The app uses an algorithm to recommend videos based on what you like.
en: algorithme
coding
noun
The process of writing instructions, called code, that a computer can understand and execute to perform a task.
Example: I enjoy coding simple games in Python.
en: codage
compiler
noun
A computer program that translates source code written in one programming language (the source language) into another language (the target language).
Example: The compiler translates the code into a language the computer understands.
en: compilateur
database
noun
A structured collection of data organized for easy access, management, and updating by computer systems.
Example: The teacher saved our grades in the database.
en: base de données
debug
verb
The process of finding, identifying, and fixing errors or bugs in a program or software.
Example: I stayed late to debug my program.
en: déboguer
encryption
noun
The process of converting information into an unreadable format called ciphertext, using an algorithm and a secret key.
Example: Encryption keeps your personal data safe from hackers.
en: chiffrement
firewall
noun
A network security device that monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predefined security rules.
Example: The firewall blocked a suspicious website.
en: pare-feu
function
noun
A block of organized, reusable code that performs a specific task or calculation.
Example: The function calculates the total price with tax.
en: fonction
hard drive
noun
A hard drive, also known as a Hard Disk Drive (HDD), is a physical storage device used in computers and other electronic devices to store digital data.
Example: The hard drive in my computer is almost full, so I need to delete some old files.
en: disque dur
hardware
noun
The physical, tangible components of a computer system that you can see and touch.
Example: The keyboard is part of the computer’s hardware.
en: matériel
IP address
noun
A unique numerical label assigned to each device connected to a computer network using the Internet Protocol.
Example: Every device connected to the internet has a unique IP address.
en: adresse IP
iteration
noun
The process of repeatedly executing a set of instructions or operations within a program.
Example: The loop runs after each iteration.
en: itération
loop
noun/verb
A control flow statement that allows a sequence of instructions to be executed repeatedly, until a specific condition is met or a break statement is encountered.
Example: A loop repeats the same code many times.
en: boucle
malware
noun
Any program designed to harm a computer system, network, or user.
Example: Malware can damage your computer files.
en: logiciel malveillant
network
noun/ verb
A system of interconnected devices that can communicate with each other and share resources.
Example: All the computers in the office are connected to the same network.
en: réseau
router
noun
A networking device that acts as a traffic controller for data packets on a computer network.
Example: The router gives Wi-Fi to the whole house.
en: routeur
software
noun
A set of instructions that tell a computer or device what to do.
Example: She downloaded photo editing software to improve her pictures.
en: logiciel
switch
noun
A hardware device that connects multiple devices, such as computers, printers, and servers, within a network.
Example: The switch connects all the computers in the lab.
