A feature in Windows 8.1 by which you can view and fix problems and run automated troubleshooters, among other things.

The process you must complete to verify that you have a valid copy of Windows 8.1, which includes a Product ID. You usually activate Windows 8.1 online the first time you turn on your computer or device, but there are other activation options. Activation is mandatory.

The window that is in the foreground and currently in use.

A reusable software component that performs a specific function or set of functions in the Windows operating system, in an app that runs on Windows, or in the Internet Explorer environment.

In Internet Explorer or any web browser, the area in which you type Internet addresses, also known as URLs (uniform resource locators). Often, an Internet address takes the form of http://www.companyname.com.

A type of Windows user account with access to all system files and settings and with permission to perform all operations. Every computer must have at least one administrator account. This account type is not recommended for daily use. See also standard user account.

A software program available either on the Start screen or in Apps view, which can be opened by clicking its related tile. More apps can be obtained from the Windows Store. Apps from the Windows Store are created to use the entire screen (or snapped to a portion of it) and are tailored to work well on desktop computers, laptops, tablets, and Windows Phones. Desktop apps, which are also software programs, are typically more complex and perform many functions. Desktop apps open on the desktop. Windows Store apps have fewer features than their desktop counterparts but are more streamlined and often easier to use.

A toolbar (available in almost all apps) that is typically hidden until needed. The app bar holds commands that might enable the user to configure the app, input a location, add an event, delete an item, view properties, and more.

Data you add to an email, such as a photograph, a short video, a sound recording, a document, or other data. Attachments can be dangerous to open because they can contain viruses.

A file that automatically starts an installation app when you insert a disc in a drive or browse to the autorun file in a folder.

The transmission capacity of an electronic communications device or its rate of data transfer, usually expressed in bits per second.

If If you want to send an email to someone and you don’t want other recipients to know you included that person in the email, add them to the Bcc line. BCC is like a secret copy.

BitLocker combines drive encryption and integrity checking to keep the hard disk from becoming accessed by unauthorized persons. Even if a thief steals the hard disk out of a computer and installs it in another computer, its data cannot be accessed.

A patent-free digital image file format. A bitmap image consists of pixels in a grid. Each pixel is a specific color; the colors within the color palette are governed by the specific bitmap format. Common formats include monochrome bitmap, 16-color bitmap, 256-color bitmap, and 24-bit bitmap. The bitmap file format does not support transparency.

Short for weblog. An online journal or news/opinion column. Contributors post entries consisting of text, graphics, or video clips. When permitted by the blog owner, readers can post comments responding to the entries or to other people’s comments. Blogs are often used to publish personal or company information in an informal way.

Browsing for a file, folder, picture, video, song, or app (among other things) is the process of navigating the operating system’s folder structure to locate the desired item. Browse also describes the act of surfing the Internet.

A term that describes the process of copying music, video, or data from a computer to a CD or DVD. The term originated because data is actually burned onto this media by using a laser. In many cases, music is burned to CDs because CDs can be played in cars and generic DVD players, and videos are burned to DVDs because videos require much more space and DVDs can be played on DVD players.

A unit of measurement for data; a byte typically represents a single character, such as a letter, digit, or punctuation mark. Some single characters can take up more than one byte.

The main circuit chip in a computer. It performs most of the calculations necessary to run the computer. Also called a processor.

If you want to send an email to someone and you don’t need that person to respond, you can put that person in the CC line. (BCC is a blind carbon copy; other recipients cannot see the BCC field address.)

The default charms are a set of five icons that appear when you swipe inward from the right side of the screen or press Windows key+C. The charms icons are Search, Share, Start, Devices, and Settings. Apps have their own charms, generally available from the app bar found there.

The act of pointing to an interface element and then pressing the primary mouse button one time, usually for the purpose of selecting an item or positioning a cursor.

The cloud is a broad term that represents the Internet, specifically internet servers and data centers where data can be stored and apps can be hosted. A cloud is called a Public cloud when the services are rendered over a network that is open for public use. A personal cloud is an app of cloud computing for individuals.

A technology wherein groups of computers are connected through a network for the purpose of accessing and sharing resources that are available off premises. Cloud computing can minimize the cost that companies pay for app management and on-site hosting.

The ability to save data at an off-site location and to have it managed by a third party. In doing so, companies can save money by outsourcing data storage. Tablet, laptop, and even desktop users can store data in the cloud (rather than on their devices) and on Internet servers to make it accessible from anywhere. Microsoft SkyDrive is an example of cloud storage. You must be able to connect to the Internet to access data stored in the cloud.

An instruction you give to a computer app.

In Internet Explorer, a toolbar located above the Content pane that provides buttons for common tasks associated with the home page, printing, web content display, and safety, as well as tools for managing Internet Explorer.

An Internet Explorer feature that displays a website as though you were using an earlier version of the web browser. Compatibility view was first introduced with Internet Explorer 8.

To reduce the size of a set of data, such as a file or group of files, within a compressed folder that can be stored in less space or transmitted using less bandwidth.

A folder containing a file or files whose contents have been compressed.

A new power management mode for ARM-based versions of Windows 8.1 (often installed on high-end tablet devices) that makes it possible for the device to sleep or hibernate efficiently for long periods of time. Thus, tablets and similar devices can remain turned on when not in use without draining the battery quickly.

In File Explorer, the pane that displays files and folders stored in the currently selected folder or storage device.

The window in which you can change computer settings related to system and maintenance, networks, and the Internet; user accounts; appearance; security; hardware; and sounds, among others. Control Panel opens on the desktop and is not an app.

Small text files that include data that identify your preferences when you visit particular websites. Cookies are generally harmless and using them makes it possible for websites such as Amazon.com to greet you by name when you navigate there.

A command that you can use to copy data to a virtual clipboard, which is a temporary holding area for data. You generally copy data so that you can paste it somewhere else.

Information that provides proof of identification that is used to gain access to local and network resources. Examples of credentials are user names and passwords, smart cards, and certificates.

The point at which text or graphics will be inserted. The cursor usually appears on screen as a blinking vertical line, or “I-beam”.

A command you use to remove the selected text, picture, or object and place it on the Clipboard. After it’s pasted, the item is deleted from its original location.

Where desktop apps run; where windows open; where you browse File Explorer; and where you work with desktop apps to write letters, create spreadsheets, manage files and folders, install and uninstall desktop apps, and do everything else you’re used to doing on Windows 7, Windows Vista, and other earlier operating systems.

A folder that contains icons that represent what’s on your desktop. You can access this folder in File Explorer.

A computer designed for use at one location. A typical desktop computer system includes the computer case containing the actual computer components, a monitor, a keyboard, a mouse, and speakers.

In File Explorer, the pane that displays details about the selected item.

An interface element (similar to a window) that appears on the screen, in which you can make changes to default settings in an app, make decisions when installing apps, set print options for a selected printer, configure sharing options for a file or folder, and perform similar tasks. Unlike a window, a dialog box does not include minimize and maximize buttons and you cannot resize it, but it does offer a Help button.

An electronic signature that is composed of a secret code and a private key. Digital signatures are used to help verify file authenticity. Also called a digital ID.

A desktop app included with Windows 8.1 that offers a safe and effective way to remove unwanted and unnecessary data. You can remove temporary files, downloaded app files, and offline webpages; empty the Recycle Bin; and more, all in a single process.

A desktop app included with Windows 8.1 that improves performance by analyzing the data stored on your hard disk and consolidating files that are not stored contiguously but are instead fragmented in chunks throughout the hard disk. Disk Defragmenter runs automatically on a schedule, so you should (theoretically) never have to invoke it manually.

In Windows: A logical (rather than physical) group of resources—computers, servers, and other hardware devices—on a network, which is centrally administered through a Windows server. On the Internet: A name used as the base of website addresses and email addresses that identifies the entity owning the address.

A technology that translates Internet address names into numerical addresses (IP addresses) so that the address can be found over the Internet. For example, if you type www.microsoft.com into a web browser, the name is translated into a numerical address and that address is used to connect you to the server hosting the Microsoft website.

To point to an interface element and press the primary mouse button two times in rapid succession, usually for the purpose of starting an app or opening a window, folder, or file.

To move an item to another location on the screen by pointing to it, holding down the primary mouse button, and then moving the mouse.

A folder that holds email messages you’ve started and saved but not yet completed and sent.

A software device driver enables Windows to communicate with a software program or hardware device (such as a printer, mouse, or keyboard) that is attached to your computer. Every device needs a driver for it to work. Many drivers, such as the keyboard driver, are built in to Windows.

A server that manages a pool of IP addresses and client confirmation parameters and assigns IP addresses to computers and devices on a network.

An operating system feature that allows executable routines (each generally serving a specific function or set of functions) to be stored separately as files with .dll extensions. These routines are loaded only when needed by the app that calls them.

A technology that uses Ethernet cables to connect computers to routers and similar hardware for the purposes of transmitting data and connecting multiple computers to form a network.

A computer file that starts an app, such as a word processor, game, or Windows tool. You can identify executable files by their extension, .exe.

A printed circuit board that when inserted into an expansion slot of a computer, provides additional functionality. There are many types of expansion cards, including audio cards, modems, network cards, security device cards, TV tuner cards, video cards, and video processing expansion cards.

A text markup language, similar to HTML, used to define the structure of data independently of its formatting so that the data can be used for multiple purposes and by multiple apps.

A peripheral device installed by connecting it to a port from outside the computer. Examples are a monitor, keyboard, mouse, and speakers.

A webpage for which you’ve created a shortcut in Internet Explorer. You can click a favorite instead of typing the web address to visit a website quickly.

In Internet Explorer, a toolbar located below the Address bar that provides buttons for storing web locations for easy future access, obtaining add-ons, and accessing sites that match your browsing history.

In Internet Explorer, a pane with three tabs: Favorites, on which you can save and organize links to websites and webpages; Feeds, on which you can save and organize RSS feeds; and History, on which you can view your browsing history.

An information stream that contains frequently updated content published by a website. Feeds are often associated with news sites and blogs but are also used for distributing other types of digital content, including photos, music, and video. See also Really Simple Syndication.

A distinct piece of data. A file can be a single Microsoft Word document, a spreadsheet, a song, a movie, a picture, or even a very large single backup.

A window in which you can browse all the data stored on your computer and your network. You use File Explorer to access your data libraries, personal and public folders, and networked computers.

The backup feature included with Windows 8.1 with which you can perform backups and, in the case of a computer failure, restore the backed-up data.

Characters appended to the name of a file by the app that created it and separated from the file name by a period. Some file name extensions identify the app that can open the file, such as .xlsx for Microsoft Office Excel 2010 or newer files, and some represent formats that more than one app can work with, such as .jpg graphics files.

To display only items that match specified criteria.

FireWire is the brand name given to the IEEE 1394 port by Apple, Inc., one of the patent holders of IEEE 1394 technology.

See USB flash drive.

To swipe a single finger quickly left, right, up, or down on a touch-enabled computer screen.

A way to move through open windows, open apps, and run apps graphically instead of clicking the item on the desktop or flicking to it. You invoke this by pressing Alt+Tab.

A data unit (similar to a folder in a filing cabinet) that holds files and subfolders. You use folders to organize data. Some folders come with Windows 8.1, including but not limited to Documents, Public Pictures, Videos, Downloads, Contacts, and Favorites.

In Internet Explorer, this is personal data, such as your name and address, that’s been saved using the Internet Explorer autocomplete form data functionality. If you don’t want forms to be filled out automatically, turn this feature off.

A movement you make with your finger to perform a task. Flick, swipe, tap, double-tap, and others are considered gestures. See also multitouch gesture.

1,024 megabytes of data storage; often interpreted as approximately 1 billion bytes.

An icon that appears on the new Windows 8.1 lock screen. You might see information about the network status, power, unread emails, and so on. You can decide which glyphs appear on the lock screen by using PC Settings.

A user interface that incorporates visual elements such as a desktop, icons, and menus with which you can perform operations by interacting with the visual interface rather than by typing commands.

A digital image file format developed by CompuServe that is used for transmitting raster images on the Internet. An image in this format can contain up to 256 colors, including a transparent color. The size of the file depends on the number of colors used.

A built-in Windows user account that allows limited use of the computer. When logged on to a computer with the Guest account, a user can’t install software or hardware, change settings, or create a password. The Guest account is turned off (unavailable) by default; you can turn it on in the User Accounts window of Control Panel.

Physical computing devices that are both inside a computer and attached to it externally. Common hardware includes printers, external USB drives, network interface cards, CPUs, RAM, and more.

A power option by which the computer is still powered on but is using very little power.

In Internet Explorer, this is the list of websites you’ve visited or typed in the address bar. Anyone who has access to your computer or device and to your user account can look at your History list to see where you’ve been, and often it’s advisable to clear your History list if you share a computer and do not have separate user accounts.

A group of computers running Windows 7, Windows 8, and Windows 8.1 that have been configured to form a network. Homegroups make sharing easier because the most common sharing settings are already configured. After a homegroup is set up, you only need the proper operating system, access to the local network, and the homegroup password to join.

The webpage that opens when you open Internet Explorer 11. You can set the home page and configure additional pages to open, as well.

A facility that houses and maintains computer systems, apps, resources, and associated components, such as telecommunications and storage systems. Datacenters manage the data stored there with backups, redundant power supplies, environmental controls, and so on. Hosted datacenters are in the cloud, on the Internet.

A wireless public network where you can connect to the Internet without being tethered to a network cable. Sometimes access to a wireless hotspot service is free, provided you have the required wireless hardware and are at a location with an open connection. You’ll find wireless hotspots in libraries, coffee shops, hotels, bars, and so on.

A device used to connect multiple devices of one type. See also network hub and USB hub.

A link from a text, graphic, audio, or video element to a target location in the same document, another document, or a webpage.

See hyperlink.

A text markup language used to create documents for the web. HTML defines the structure and layout of a web document by using a variety of tags and attributes.

A visual representation of a file, folder, app, or other interface elements such as buttons that you can click or double-click as applicable, and which then opens, activates, or executes the item that the icon represents. Icon is a term generally associated with the desktop and items you find in folders, whereas tile is a term generally used to represent the items available on the Start screen.

The development, installation, and implementation of computer systems and apps.

A browsing mode that opens a separate Internet Explorer window in which the places you visit are not tracked. The pages and sites do not appear on the History tab, and temporary files and cookies are not saved on your computer.

A piece of hardware with which you type, select, open, or otherwise interact with the computer. Common input devices include the mouse and keyboard. However, your finger can be an input device, and there are several specialty input devices for people with disabilities.

What you see on the screen when working on a computer. In the WordPad interface, you see the ribbon, tabs, and the page itself, for instance.

A device installed inside the computer’s case, such as an expansion card, a hard disk, or a DVD drive. See also external peripheral and peripheral device.

The newest version of the Microsoft web browser. It’s available as both a Windows Store–style app and a desktop app.

A method computers use to send and receive email messages. Using this protocol, you can access email without downloading it to your computer.

An address that identifies a computer that is connected to the Internet or to a network. There are two types of IP addresses: IP version 4 (IPv4) and IP version 6 (IPv6). An IPv4 address usually consists of four groups of numbers separated by periods, such as 192.200.44.69. An IPv6 address has eight groups of hexadecimal characters (the numbers 0 through 9 and the letters a through f) separated by colons—for example, 3ffe:ffff:0000:2f3b: 02aa:00ff:fe28.1:9c5a.

A computer that stores data offsite, such as one that might store your email before you download it or hold backups you store in the cloud. Through Internet servers, you can access information from any computer that can access the Internet.

A company that provides Internet access to individuals or companies. An ISP provides the connection information necessary for users to access the Internet through the ISP’s computers. An ISP typically charges a monthly or hourly connection fee.

A digital image file format designed for compressing either full-color or grayscale still images. It works well on photographs, naturalistic artwork, and similar material. Images saved in this format have .jpg or .jpeg file extensions.

An efficient method of accessing the features and files you are most likely to use with a desktop app. Right-clicking an app icon on the taskbar might offer quick access to recently opened files.

Kilobits per second; a unit of data transfer equal to 1,000 bits per second or 125 bytes per second.

A word or phrase assigned to a file or webpage so that it can be located in searches for that word or phrase.

1,024 bytes of data storage. In reference to data transfer rates, 1,000 bytes.

An outdated term for a portable computer, referring to the fact that portable computers are small enough to set on your lap. See also netbook, notebook, and portable computer.

A virtual data unit that previously offered access to both the related private and public folders. As an example, the Documents library offered access to the Documents and Public Documents folders, and the data was grouped to appear as a unit. In Windows 8.1, libraries only represent what is available in the related personal folder and no longer offer access to what is in the related Public folder. You can create your own libraries.

A shortcut to a webpage. It might be contained in an email, document, or webpage and offers access to a site without actually typing the site’s name.

A computer network covering a small physical area such as a home or office, with a central connection point such as a network router and a shared Internet connection.

A printer that is directly connected to one of the ports on a computer. See also remote printer.

To make your Windows computing session unavailable to other people. Locking is most effective when your user account is protected by a password.

The Windows 8.1 welcome screen, which appears when the computer first starts. It features the time, date, and a series of notification glyphs; the screen can be personalized with your own background picture and the glyphs shown.

To stop your computing session without affecting other users’ sessions.

To start a computing session.

A tool in the Ease of Access suite of apps. You use Magnifier to increase the size of the information shown on the screen; three options are available for doing so. By default, you use your mouse to enlarge what’s under it, and you can choose to what degree the material is magnified.

A computer that your ISP configures to transmit email. It often includes a POP3 incoming mail server and an SMTP outgoing mail server. You’ll need to know the names of these servers if you use an ISP to configure Microsoft Mail. Often, the server names look similar to pop.yourispnamehere.com and smtp.yourispnamehere.com.

Malicious software. Malware includes viruses, worms, spyware, and so on.

Megabits per second; a unit of data transfer equal to 1,000 Kbps (kilobits per second).

Materials on which data is recorded or stored, such as CDs, DVDs, floppy disks, or USB flash drives.

1,024 kilobytes or 1,048.1,576 bytes of data storage; often interpreted as approximately 1 million bytes. In reference to data transfer rates, 1,000 kilobytes.

A title on a menu bar (such as File, Edit, View). Clicking a menu name opens a drop-down list with additional choices (Open, Save, Print). Menus are being phased out by the ribbon in many apps, including those included with Windows 8.1, such as WordPad and Paint, among others.

A toolbar on which you can access menus of commands.

Descriptive information, including keywords and properties, about a file or webpage. Title, subject, author, and size are examples of a file’s metadata.

A sign in option by which you can synchronize settings and other data across computers, laptops, and other devices, which are applied when you log on by using the account. You need to be connected to the Internet when logging in for this to work effectively.

A term for wireless routers that act as mobile Wi-Fi hotspots. A MiFi device can be connected to a mobile phone carrier and provide Internet access for up to ten devices.

A device through which computer information can be transmitted and received over a telephone line or through a broadband service.

A term used when more than one monitor is configured on a Windows computer. There are multimonitor capabilities that are new to Windows 8.1, for both the Start screen and the classic Windows desktop.

Gestures that require two (or more) fingers to perform, such as pinching the computer screen to zoom in and out.

A basic screen reader included with Windows 8.1 and part of the Ease of Access suite of apps. This app reads aloud text that appears on the screen while you navigate using the keyboard and mouse.

A term used to describe surfing the Internet by browsing webpages. It is the process of moving from one webpage to another or viewing items on a single webpage. You can also navigate the data on your computer by using File Explorer.

In Windows Explorer, the left pane of a folder window. It displays favorite links, access to SkyDrive, access to your HomeGroup, My PC, and an expandable list of storage devices and folders.

See Windows Live ID or Microsoft account.

A small, lightweight portable computer designed primarily for web browsing and simple computing. Most netbooks have limited internal resources and a screen size of less than 11 inches.

A group of computers, printers, and other devices that communicate wirelessly or through wired connections, often for the purpose of sharing both data and physical resources (such as printers). Networks often contain routers, cable modems, hubs, switches, or similar hardware to connect the computers and offer them all access to the Internet.

A piece of hardware that connects your computer to a network such as the Internet or a local network. Network adapters can offer wired capabilities, wireless capabilities, or both.

A place in Windows 8.1 where you can view your basic network information and set up connections. You can also diagnose problems here, change adapter settings, and change advanced sharing settings.

A feature that you must turn on so that computers can find other computers on the network. When connected to public networks, this feature is turned off by default.

A network whose security and settings are centrally administered through a Windows server computer and user accounts.

A shared folder or storage device on your network to which you assign a drive letter so that it appears in the My PC window as a named drive.

A device that connects computers on a network. The computers are connected to the hub with cables. The hub sends information received from one computer to all other computers on the network.

A printer that is connected directly to a network through a wired or wireless network connection or through a print server or printer hub.

Information about a specific network connection, such as the network name, type, and settings.

A hardware device connecting computers on a network or connecting multiple networks (for example, connecting a LAN to an ISP).

A shared folder on a computer on your network (not your local computer).

An online forum in which people participate (anonymously or not) to share ideas and opinions, get help, and meet other people with interests similar to theirs.

A standard portable computer designed for all types of computing. Notebooks have technical specifications that are comparable to those of desktop computers. Most notebooks have a screen size ranging from 11 to 17 inches.

The area at the right end of the Windows taskbar. It contains shortcuts to running apps and important status information.

A product and services bundle from Microsoft that includes Microsoft Online Services as well as domain administration tools, additional account storage space, and increased vendor support.

Connected to a network or to the Internet. Also used to describe time that you will be working on your computer.

A feature that is available as part of Windows 8.1 with which you can input text and interact with the computer by using a virtual keyboard.

The underlying software instructions that direct your computer what to do and how to do it. The operating system coordinates interactions among the computer system components, acts as the interface between you and your computer, makes communication possible between your computer and other computers and peripheral devices, and interacts with apps installed on your computer.

One of a group of mutually exclusive values for a setting, usually in a dialog box.

A standard Windows control that you use to select one from a set of options.

A company that assembles a computer from components, brands the computer, and then sells the computer to the public. The OEM might also preinstall an operating system and other software on the computer.

A hard disk has a certain amount of space to store data. That can be 120 GB, 500 GB, 1 TB or more. Sometimes, people or computer manufacturers separate this space into two or three distinct spaces called partitions (or drives or volumes). The purpose is to separate system files, data files, and app files, among other reasons. Windows 8.1 creates a small partition at the beginning of the hard disk to hold files needed to repair the computer if something goes wrong.

A security feature by which the user is required to input a personal password to access the computer, specific files, websites, and other data.

An entry you record when you create or change your password to remind you what the password is. Windows displays the password hint if you enter an incorrect password.

A file you create on a flash drive or other compatible media so that you can reset your password if you forget it.

A sequence of names of drives, directories, or folders, separated by backslashes (), that leads to a specific file or folder.

A command that enables you to place previously copied or cut data in a new location. You can cut, copy, and paste a single word, sentence, paragraph, or page; a file; a folder; a web link; and more.

A user-friendly, graphical version of Control Panel that offers access to the most-configured settings, including changing the picture on the lock screen, adding users, viewing installed devices, and configuring Windows Update.

To see what’s on the desktop behind currently active windows and apps. To use Peek, you position your mouse in the lower-right corner. Peek must be turned on to work.

A network, such as a workgroup, in which computers and resources are connected directly and are not centrally managed by a server.

A device, such as a hard disk, printer, modem, or joystick, that is connected to a computer and is controlled by the computer’s microprocessor but is not necessary to the computer’s operation. See also external peripheral and internal peripheral.

Rules associated with a shared resource such as a folder, file, or printer that define who can use it and what users can do after they have access to it. You can set permissions to allow a user to print to a printer only during certain hours, for instance.

In Windows, a storage folder created by Windows for each user account and containing subfolders and information that is specific to the user profile, such as Documents and Pictures. The personal folder is labeled with the name used to log on to the computer.

A hacking technique to entice you to divulge personal information such as bank account numbers. Internet Explorer 11 has a phishing filter to warn you of potential phishing websites.

A method of logging on to Windows 8.1. Instead of typing a password or PIN, you can use a series of touch gestures on a particular part of an image that you select.

A method of logging on to Windows 8.1. The PIN is similar to what you type in an ATM machine and is a four-digit numeric password.

A button representing an app, which appears permanently at the left end of the taskbar. A button that is not pinned appears on the taskbar only when its app is running.

Attaching an app, folder, or file shortcut to a user interface element such as the taskbar or Start screen.

A collection of songs that you can save and then listen to as a group. You can also burn a playlist to a CD, copy a playlist to a portable music player, and more.

A technology by which the computer can automatically discover and configure settings for a device connected to the computer through a USB or IEEE 1394 connection.

An online audio or video broadcast. Podcasts are generally free and can be synchronized to many types of portable music devices.

The onscreen image that moves around the screen in conjunction with movements of the mouse. Depending on the current action, the pointer might resemble an arrow, a hand, an I-beam, or another shape.

A device such as a mouse that controls a pointer with which you can interact with items displayed on the screen.

A standard method that computers use to send and receive email messages. POP3 messages are typically held on an email server until you download them to your computer, and then they are deleted from the server. With other email protocols, such as IMAP, email messages are held on the server until you delete them.

A small web browser window that opens on top of (or sometimes below) the web browser window when you display a website or click an advertising link.

An interface through which data is transferred between a computer and other devices, a network, or a direct connection to another computer.

A computer, such as a notebook, laptop, or netbook, with a built-in monitor, keyboard, and pointing device, designed to be used in multiple locations.

A digital image file format that uses lossless compression (compression that doesn’t lose data) and was created as a patent-free alternative to the .gif file format.

A group of settings that specify when and whether to turn off the computer monitor or display and when or whether to put the computer to sleep. You can create your own power plan if desired.

In File Explorer, a pane used to show a preview of a file selected in the Content pane. See also Content pane, Details pane, and Navigation pane.

In a multimonitor system, the monitor is specifically configured to be the main display. Most app windows appear on the primary display when they first open. See also secondary display.

A unique registration code issued by the manufacturer of a desktop app. The key must be supplied during the setup process to verify that you have a valid license to install and use the app.

The Windows 8.1 progress indicator that informs the user that a task is in progress.

Folders from which you can easily share data with other users. Anyone with an account on the computer can access the data here.

The small, thin toolbar that appears across the top of the ribbon in many apps on which you can quickly access common commands (such as Save). You can personalize this toolbar by adding your most-used commands and by repositioning it below the ribbon if desired.

This is the hardware inside your computer that temporarily stores data the operating system or apps are using. Theoretically, the more RAM you have, the faster your computer will run. Temporary data can include a document you have written but not saved and have subsequently sent to the printer, or calculations required when resizing or otherwise editing a photo.

A technology with which you can improve the performance of your computer by adding additional paging file space. ReadyBoost increases performance in a way that is similar to adding internal RAM, but ReadyBoost is not RAM. Often, you use an external USB flash drive for this.

A method of distributing information from a website or blog to subscribers for display in an RSS reader or aggregator.

The Recycle Bin holds deleted files until you manually empty it. The Recycle Bin is a safeguard that makes it possible for you to recover items you’ve accidentally deleted or items you thought you no longer wanted but later decide you need. Note that after you empty the Recycle Bin, the items that were in it are gone forever.

This is a service in Windows 8.1 that, when invoked, automatically backs up all your photos, music, videos, and other personal files, reinstalls new operating system files on your computer, and then puts your data back on it for you. It also backs up and restores your customizations, changes you’ve made to apps, and more. By using Refresh Your PC, you can completely reinstall Windows and then easily put your data back on your computer.

A repository for information about the computer’s configuration. The registry stores settings related to the hardware and software installed on the computer. Registry settings are typically updated through the proper install and uninstall procedures and apps.

A path that defines the position of a file or folder in relation to the current location. For example, ..ImagesPicture.png defines a path up one level to the parent folder of the current location, down one level into the Images folder, to the Picture image. Relative paths are frequently used in website navigational code.

An app included in Windows 8.1 by which you can access your computer from somewhere else, such as an office or hotel room.

A printer that is not connected directly to your computer.

A service in Windows 8.1 that reverts your computer to its factory settings. It does this by wiping all the data from it and reinstalling Windows, after which the computer will appear as it did the first time you turned it on, right out of the box.

The measure of how many pixels are shown on a computer screen. A pixel is a very small square unit of display. Choosing 1024 × 768 pixels means that the desktop displays by using 1024 pixels across and 768 pixels down. When you increase the resolution, you increase the number of pixels on the screen, making images sharper yet smaller on the screen.

A snapshot of your computer system settings taken by Windows at a scheduled time as well as before any major change, such as installing an app or updating system files. If you experience problems with your system, you can restore it to any saved restore point without undoing changes to your personal files. You use System Restore to do this.

A feature that appeared in Microsoft Office apps a few years ago and is now part of the Windows 8.1 graphical user interface. The ribbon is made up of tabs that, when selected, present a related set of tools and features. The ribbon replaces the older menu bar, menus, and drop-down menu lists.

To point to an interface element and press the secondary (right) mouse button one time.

A term that describes the process of copying files from a physical CD to your hard disk. Generally, the term is used to describe the process of copying music CDs to the music library on your computer.

A piece of equipment that connects two dissimilar networks and sends data from computer to computer on a LAN. A router directs the data to the correct computer and rejects data that is deemed harmful.

The fineness or coarseness of detail attained by a monitor in producing an image, measured in pixels, expressed as the number of pixels wide by the number of pixels high; for example, 1024 × 768.

Information that appears when you point to an item.

A scroll bar appears when the content that is available to show on the screen is more than can be viewed on it. You’ll see a scroll bar on the Start screen, on webpages, in long documents, and in other places.

A process of using the mouse, the arrow keys on a keyboard, or a flick of your finger to scroll when a scroll bar is available.

A Windows 8.1 feature that that you can use to look for apps, settings, files, emails, and more. You can access Search by clicking its charm (swipe inward from the right edge of the screen or press Windows key+C), or, on the Start screen, you can simply type a description of the item for which you’re searching.

A company that provides a search engine, which you can use to find information on the Internet.

The term you type in the Search box of the Start menu or any folder window. Windows then filters the contents of the available storage locations or of the folder window’s Content pane to include only the items that contain the search term.

In a multimonitor system, the monitor onto which you can expand apps so that you can increase your work area. See also primary display.

A special kind of Start screen tile that is created from within an app that is capable of producing one. For example, a contacts app can have its own tile, but you can also create a tile for your favorite contact on the Start screen.

The technical term for the technology by which you can pinch with two fingers to zoom in and out of the screen.

A component, such as a DLL file, that is used by multiple apps. When uninstalling an app that uses a shared component, Windows requests confirmation before removing the component.

A storage device that has been made available for other people on a network to access.

A folder that has been made available for other people on a network to access.

A printer connected to a computer and made available from that computer for use by other computers on a network.

A charm with which you can share information in one app with another app and, possibly, with other people (by Mail, for instance). This charm can also make local files or resources available to other users of the same computer or other computers on a network. You can also share items manually, such as printers and folders.

An icon with an arrow on it that offers access to a particular item on the hard disk. You can put shortcuts on your desktop, for instance, that when double-clicked open apps, files, and folders stored in places other than the desktop.

A menu displayed when you right-click an object, showing a list of commands relevant to that object.

To initiate the process that closes all your open apps and files, ends your computing session, closes network connections, stops system processes, stops the hard disk, and turns off the computer.

Ways in which you can disconnect from the current computing session. You can shut down the computer, switch to a different user account, log off from the computer, lock the computer, restart the computer, or put the computer into Sleep mode or Hibernate mode.

A protocol for sending messages from one computer to another on a network. This protocol is used on the Internet to route email.

A location in the cloud offered by Microsoft where you can store data, including documents and pictures, among other things. Data is saved on Internet servers, and you can access the data from any Internet-enabled, compatible device.

A Windows 8.1 security technology that prevents malware from infecting your system.

The process by which you can display two to four apps side by side in Windows 8.1. This makes it possible for you to work with multiple apps at one time.

A feature in Windows 8.1 by which you can drag your pointer around any area on the screen to copy and capture it. You can then save the captured data to edit it or attach it to an email or embed it in a Word document. The Snipping Tool is a desktop app.

Apps that you use to do things with hardware, such as print to a printer. Software also refers to operating systems, desktop applications, apps, device drivers, and other computer programs that enable communications between the user and the computer hardware, most often to perform tasks.

The illegal reproduction and distribution of software apps.

A tool included with Windows 8.1 that offers three options: Start Recording, Stop Recording, and Resume Recording. You can save recorded clips for use with other apps.

Unwanted email; junk email.

An app included with Windows 8.1 by which you control your computer with your voice. Speech Recognition provides a wizard to help you set up your microphone and use the app.

Software that can display advertisements (such as pop-up ads), collect information about you, or change settings on your computer, generally without appropriately obtaining your consent.

A toolbar that is often underneath a menu bar in apps that do not offer a ribbon, which contains icons or pictures of common commands. You might already be familiar with the graphic icons for Save, Print, Cut, Copy, Paste, Undo, and others. These toolbars are being phased out and are being replaced by the ribbon.

A type of Windows user account that allows the user to install software and change system settings that do not affect other users or the security of the computer. This account type is recommended for daily use.

A button now available in the lower-right corner that, when clicked, takes you to the Start screen. You can right-click this button to access a shortcut menu that offers shut down options, access to Control Panel, and more.

The Windows 8.1 graphical user experience that offers access to Windows Store–style and desktop apps, the desktop itself, and more. You can type while on the Start screen to locate something on it or elsewhere on your computer.

A toolbar that often appears at the bottom of an app window (such as the desktop version of Internet Explorer 11) and offers information about what is happening at the moment.

A setting by which you can configure the keyboard so that you never have to press three keys at once (such as when you must press the Ctrl, Alt, and Delete keys together to access Task Manager).

See Windows Store.

A folder within another folder. You often create subfolders to further organize data that is stored in folders.

To compare data in one location to the data in another. Synchronizing is the act of performing the tasks required to match up the data. When data is synchronized, the data in both places matches.

An area in the computer memory where Windows stores information it might need to access quickly for the duration of the current computing session.

The hard disk on which the operating system is installed.

A folder created on the system hard disk that contains files required by the Windows operating system.

If turned on, this features creates and stores restore points on your computer or device’s hard disk. If something goes wrong, you can run System Restore and revert to a pre-problem date by selecting the desired point in time. System Restore deals with system data only, so none of your personal data will be changed when you run it.

In a dialog box, tabs indicate separate pages of settings within the dialog box window; the tab title indicates the nature of the group. You can display the settings by clicking the tab. In Internet Explorer, when tabbed browsing is turned on, tabs indicate separate webpages displayed within one browser window. You can display a page by clicking its tab or display a shortcut menu of options for working with a page by right-clicking its tab.

An Internet Explorer feature with which you can open and view multiple webpages or files by displaying them on different tabs. You can easily switch among pages or files by clicking the tabs.

Metadata included with a file, such as the date a photo was taken or the artist who sang a particular song. You can create your own tags in compatible apps and then sort data by using those tags.

A gesture you perform with your finger or a pen or stylus. A tap or touch is often the equivalent of a single click with a mouse.

The bar that runs horizontally across the bottom of the Windows 8.1 desktop. It contains icons for running apps, File Explorer, and Internet Explorer, and offers the Notification area, among other things. You can access open files, folders, and apps from the taskbar, too.

A button on the taskbar representing an open window, file, or app. See also pinned taskbar button.

A way to access, manage, stop, or start running apps, processes, and services. You often use Task Manager to close something that has stopped working and is unresponsive, such as an app or process.

A set of visual elements and sounds that applies a unified look to the computer user interface. A theme can include a desktop background, screen saver, window colors, and sounds. Some themes might also include icons and mouse pointers.

An entry in the Navigation pane of File Explorer that offers access to installed hard disks, CD and DVD drives, connected external drives, network locations (drives), network media servers, and similar connected media and locations.

Graphical user interface elements on the Windows 8.1 Start screen. Some can offer live information, such as the news headlines or the number of unread emails. Tiles are said to be pinned to the Start screen.

The horizontal area at the top of a window that displays the title of the app or file displayed in the window as well as buttons for controlling the display of the window.

A horizontal or vertical bar that displays buttons representing commands that you can use with the content of the current window. When more commands are available than can fit on the toolbar, a chevron (>>) appears at the right end of the toolbar; clicking the chevron displays the additional commands.

A segue you can configure to appear when moving from one picture to another in a slide show, such as fading in or out. Transitions can be applied in other places, too, such as in Microsoft PowerPoint presentations.

An address that uniquely identifies the location of a website or webpage. A URL is usually preceded by http://, as in http://www.microsoft.com. URLs are used by web browsers to locate Internet resources.

A system for identifying the location on a network of shared resources such as computers, drives, and folders. A UNC address is in the form of \ComputerNameSharedFolder.

A connection that provides data transfer capabilities and power to a peripheral device. See also USB hub and USB port.

To replace older hardware with newer hardware or an earlier version of an app with the current version.

A portable flash memory device that plugs into a computer’s USB port. You can store data on a USB flash drive or, if the USB flash drive supports ReadyBoost, use all or part of the available drive space to increase the operating system speed. See also ReadyBoost.

A device used to connect multiple USB devices to a single USB port or to connect one or more USB devices to USB ports on multiple computers. The latter type of USB hub, called a sharing hub, operates as a switch box to give control of the hub-connected devices to one computer at a time.

A connection that provides both power and data transfer capabilities to a hardware device.

On a Windows computer, a uniquely named account that allows an individual to gain access to the system and to specific resources and settings. Each user account includes a collection of information that describes the way the computer environment looks and operates for that particular user as well as a private folder not accessible by other people using the computer, in which you can store personal documents, pictures, media, and other files. See also administrator account and standard user account.

A Windows security feature that allows or restricts actions by the user and the system to prevent malicious apps from damaging the computer.

A unique name identifying a user account to Windows.

An image representing a user account. You’ll see this picture on the log in screen and at the top of the Start screen, among other places.

The portion of an app with which a user interacts. Types of user interfaces include command-line interfaces, menu-driven interfaces, and graphical user interfaces.

A software system that acts as if it were a hardware system. Examples are virtual folders (called libraries) and virtual printers.

An app that “prints” content to a file rather than on paper. When viewed in the file, the content looks as it would if it were printed.

A self-replicating app that infects computers with intent to do harm. Viruses can come as an attachment in an email, from a USB stick, from a macro in an Office app, through a network connection, and even in instant messages, among other places.

The picture that appears on the desktop. Windows 8.1 comes with several options, but you can use your own picture(s) or graphics if desired.

An abbreviated way to say World Wide Web. A worldwide network consisting of millions of smaller networks that exchange data.

An app that displays webpage content and makes it possible for you to interact with webpage content and navigate the Internet. Internet Explorer is a web browser.

A camera that can send live images over the Internet. Windows 8.1 comes with a camera app that should be able to find and use your camera without any setup.

A webpage or a group of webpages that contain related information. The Microsoft website contains information about Microsoft products, for instance.

A technology by which an electronic device can exchange data or connect to the Internet wirelessly using radio waves. Public hotspots often offer free Wi-Fi connections to the Internet.

Desktop apps open a window of their own. Window, as it is used here, has nothing to do with the name of the operating system Windows 8.1; it is a generic term. Windows have minimize, restore, and maximize buttons so that you can resize them.

A built-in tool that provides antivirus and antimalware functionality.

An older term for an email address, registered with the Windows Live ID authentication service, that identifies you to sites and services that use Windows Live ID authentication. This has been replaced with the Microsoft account.

If turned on, the firewall should lessen the ability of unauthorized users to access your computer or device and its data. The firewall blocks the apps that can be a threat. You can allow apps through the firewall or create exceptions if the need arises.

A full-fledged media and media management desktop app. You can view and manage photos, music, videos, and even television here. This is not included with Windows 8.1 by default; it is an add-on.

The Microsoft online store for Windows 8.1 apps. There is also an XBox Music store and an XBox Video store.

A way to run Windows 8.1 from a USB key rather than from a traditional hard disk. This makes it possible for you to take Windows anywhere.

When set to use the recommended settings, Windows 8.1 checks for security updates automatically and installs them. You can choose which optional updates to install.

A tool that walks you through the steps necessary to accomplish a particular task.

A peer-to-peer computer network through which computers can share resources, such as files, printers, and Internet connections.

A digital file format for saving documents. XPS is based on XML, preserves document formatting, and enables file sharing. XPS was developed by Microsoft but is platform-independent and royalty-free.