Glossary of tech terms
Browse the glossary using this index
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Video calling / video conferencingSimilar to a phone call, but you can use an app on your computer or smart device to see the face of the person you're speaking to and they can see yours. Examples of video calling apps include FaceTime (for Apple devices), Skype and Zoom. |
VirusAn unwanted application that can cause your computer to do things you don't want it to do, like send personal data or lock your important files. Viruses can often be unwittingly downloaded to your computer or device by clicking on an untrusted link or opening a document that has been infected. Depending on what type of virus you are dealing with, they are sometimes called different things, such as worms, malware, trojan horses and other similarly sinister names. Anti-virus software is a good idea to protect your computer or smart device from these pests. |
Voice assistantThe software installed in a smart device or smart speaker that allows you to control your smart devices with your voice commands. You can ask the voice assistant a question or issue a command and it will respond almost instantly. Examples include: Google Assistant, Apple Siri and Amazon Alexa. |
Voice controlControlling appliances or devices (e.g. smart TVs and smart speakers) using your voice and a voice assistant. |