GLOSSARY
A
Authentication: The process of verifying your identity to access digital services. Similar to a key card that occasionally needs to be reactivated. Your devices periodically need to reconfirm their credentials with digital services to maintain security.
App: Software that runs on your device to perform specific functions or tasks.
B
Backup: A copy of your important files and data stored separately from your device to prevent loss.
Bluetooth: A wireless technology that connects devices over short distances.
C
Cloud Storage: A service that lets you store your files on secure internet servers, allowing you to access them from any device with an internet connection.
CPU (Central Processing Unit): The "brain" of your computer, similar to an engine in a luxury car. It handles all complex calculations and determines how quickly tasks are completed.
D
Device: Any piece of hardware you can touch, such as computers, phones, tablets, or printers.
Digital Decluttering: The process of organizing and removing unnecessary digital files, apps, and data.
F
Focus Mode: Apple's sophisticated system for filtering notifications and apps based on your current activity or context. Think of it as different "atmospheres" for your digital environment that can be customized for different activities.
File: A digital document, photo, or other item stored on your device.
Folder: A digital container that helps organize files on your device.
H
Hardware: The physical parts of your technology that you can touch, including devices, cables, and accessories.
HDMI: A type of cable used to connect devices to TVs or monitors.
I
iCloud: Apple's cloud storage service that keeps your content synced across all your Apple devices.
L
Lightning Cable: Apple's charging and data cable used for iPhones and some iPads.
M
Micro-USB: An older type of charging cable used for many non-Apple devices.
Memory (RAM - Random Access Memory): Like a craftsman's workbench space. It holds your active projects and more space means handling more simultaneous tasks. It clears when powered off.
N
Notification: Alerts from apps and services that appear on your device.
O
Operating System: The main software that runs your device (like iOS for iPhone or macOS for Mac).
P
Password Manager: A secure tool that stores and organizes your passwords.
Processor: See CPU.
R
Router: The device that creates your Wi-Fi network and connects your home to the internet.
S
Software: Programs that run on your hardware to perform various functions.
Storage (Hard Drive or SSD): Like your workshop's storage cabinets. Keeps all your files safe, organized into folders and sections, and available whenever needed.
Security: Measures taken to protect your devices and data from threats.
Sync: The process of updating files across multiple devices to ensure they contain the same information.
T
Two-Factor Authentication: A security method that requires two different types of verification to access an account.
U
USB-C: A newer, versatile type of connection cable used for charging and data transfer.
Update: New software versions released to improve features, fix bugs, or address security issues.
V
Voice Assistant: A digital helper that uses voice commands to perform tasks on your device. Similar to having a helpful friend nearby who can set reminders, answer questions, and even tell jokes - all by just using your voice.
W
Wi-Fi: Your wireless connection to the internet. Think of it as an invisible cable that connects your devices to the online world within a limited range (usually your home).
App-Specific Terms
Face ID: Apple's facial recognition system for unlocking devices and verifying identity.
Time Machine: Apple's backup system for Mac computers.
Touch ID: Apple's fingerprint recognition system for unlocking devices and verifying identity.
Keychain: Apple's password management system.
AirDrop: Apple's feature for wirelessly sharing files between nearby Apple devices.