20 A Glossary of Essential Information Technology Terms terms
Computer Science Technology is a field of study that focuses on designing, building, and maintaining the software systems and computer networks that power our modern world. Students in this program learn how to write code in multiple programming languages, manage databases, secure computer networks from cyber threats, and build applications that solve real-world problems. From the websites you browse every day to the apps on your phone and the servers that store your data in the cloud, computer science technologists are the people who make it all work behind the scenes.
This glossary presents essential terms used in the field of information technology. Each entry includes a definition and a French translation. An image reference from Wikimedia is added to help you know what this is all about. Whether you are a student beginning your studies or simply curious about the language of technology, this glossary will help you understand the key vocabulary.
algorithm
noun
A process or set of rules to be followed in calculations or other problem-solving operations, especially by a computer.
Example: The search algorithm determines which web pages appear first in the results based on relevance and popularity.
fr: algorithme
bandwidth
noun
The maximum rate of data transfer across a given path, typically measured in bits per second.
Example: The company upgraded its internet bandwidth to handle the increased number of remote workers accessing the network simultaneously
fr: bande passante
bug
noun
An error, flaw, or fault in a computer program or system that causes it to produce an incorrect or unexpected result.
Example: The developer spent three hours tracking down a bug that was causing the application to crash whenever a user submitted a form
fr: bogue
cache
noun
A hardware or software component that stores data so that future requests for that data can be served faster
Example: Clearing the browser cache can resolve issues with a web pages loading properly or displaying outdated content.
fr: mémoire cache
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: Many businesses have moved their infrastructure to cloud computing services like AWS and Azure to reduce hardware costs.
fr: infonuagique
compiler
noun
A program that translates source code written in a high-level programming language into machine code that a computer's processor can execute
Example: The C++ compiler flagged several syntax errors before the program could be built and executed
fr: compilateur
cpu
noun
The central processing unit, the primary component of a computer that performs most of the processing inside the computer
Example: The new CPU can handle complex simulations much faster thanks to its increased number of cores and higher clock speed
fr: processeur
cybersecurity
noun
The practice of protecting systems, networks, and programs from digital attacks, unauthorized access, and data breaches
Example: After the data breach, the company invested heavily in cybersecurity measures including two-factor authentication and encrypted communications
fr: cybersécurité
database
noun
A structured set of data held in a computer, especially one that is accessible in various ways
Example: The application stores all user information in a relational database, which allows complex queries and fast retrieval of records.
fr: base de données
debugging
noun
The process of identifying, analyzing and removing errors or bugs from computer hardware or software
Example: Debugging the program required setting breakpoints and stepping through each line of code to find were the logic went wrongly.
fr: débogage
encryption
noun
The process of converting information or data into a code to prevent unauthorized access.
Example: End-to-end encryption ensures that only the sender and recipient can read the messages exchanged between them.
fr: chiffrement
firewall
noun
A network security system that monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules
Example: The IT department configured the firewall to block all incoming traffic on unused ports and prevent unauthorized access to the network
fr: pare-feu
git
noun
A distributed version control system used for tracking changes in source code during a software development
hardware
noun
The physical components of a computer system, such as the monitor, keyboard, motherboard, and hard drive.
Example: The technician replaced the faulty hardware, including the graphics card and power supply to get the workstation running again.
fr: matériel informatique
ip adress
noun
A unique numerical label assigned to each device connected to a computer network that uses the internet protocol for communication
Example: Every device on the internet has a unique IP address that allows other devices to locate and communicate with it.
fr: adresse IP
kernel
noun
The core component of an operating system that manages system resources and facilitates communication between hardware and software.
Example: The Linux kernel is open-source, which means anyone can view, modify, and distribute its source code.
fr: noyau
malware
noun
Software that is specifically designed to disrupt, damage, or gain unauthorized access to a computer system.
Example: The employee accidentally downloaded malware by clicking on a suspicious email attachment, which compromised the entire network.
fr: logiciel malveillant
open source
adjective
Denoting software for which the original source code is made freely available and may be redistributed and modified.
Example: Many companies prefer open source solutions because they can customize the code to fit their specific needs without paying fees.
fr: code source ouvert
server
noun
A computer or computer program that provides functionality or data to the other computers or programs, known as clients.
Example: The web server handles thousands of requests per second, delivering pages and data to users across the globe.
fr: serveur
ssh
noun
Secure Shell, a cryptographic network protocol for operating network services securely over an unsecured network.
Example: The system administration used SSH to remotely connect to the server and perform maintenance tasks from a secure terminal.
