The Basic Devices
When you talk about technology, you'll need words for the things you use every day. A phone or mobile phone is a pocket-sized device that lets you call, text, and browse the internet. A computer or laptop is a larger machine for work and play. A tablet is something in between—smaller than a laptop but bigger than a phone. These are all examples of devices or gadgets.
Each device has important parts. The screen (or display) is what you look at. The keyboard helps you type, and a mouse or touchpad helps you move a cursor around. The battery stores energy to power your device.
Think of it like a living room: the screen is your television, the keyboard is your remote control, and the battery is like the power outlet that keeps everything running.
Connecting and Sharing Information
To use the internet, you need to connect. Wi-Fi is wireless internet that sends signals through the air to your device. Data is another word for information—words, pictures, videos—that travel between devices. When you download something, you're copying it from the internet to your device. When you upload, you're sending it the opposite way.
Passwords are secret codes that keep your accounts safe. Accounts are your personal spaces on websites like email or social media. Email is electronic mail—messages sent digitally instead of on paper.
Think of it like mailing a letter: uploading is like putting it in a mailbox, and downloading is like receiving it at home.
Internet and Online Activities
The internet is the vast network connecting computers worldwide. A website is a page you visit to find information. You use a search engine like Google to find things. Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok let you share with friends.
Browsing means looking around online. A link or hyperlink is clickable text that takes you to another page. Streaming means watching videos or listening to music without downloading them first.
Staying Safe Online
Cybersecurity means protecting your devices from hackers and bad code. A virus is harmful software that damages your computer. Spam is unwanted messages or emails. Being online means connected to the internet; being offline means disconnected.
Learning these words helps you discuss technology confidently in any language. Start with the devices you use daily, then learn words for the activities you enjoy online.