Software Terminology
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| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Back End Developer | A Back End Developer is responsible for designing, building, and maintaining the server-side of web applications or software systems. This involves working with databases, server scripting, and APIs to ensure the functionality, performance, and responsiveness of the software. Back End Developers often deal with server-side logic, database interactions, and server configuration to enable the seamless operation of the overall application. They collaborate with Front End Developers and other team members to create integrated and efficient systems that meet the requirements of both users and business objectives. |
| Cascading Style Sheet (CSS) | A Cascading Style Sheet (CSS) is a stylesheet language used in web development to describe the presentation and formatting of a document written in HTML or XML. CSS defines how elements on a web page should be displayed, specifying attributes such as layout, colors, fonts, and spacing. It enables web developers to separate the structure and content of a document from its visual presentation. |
| Client-Server Model | The Client-Server model is a distributed computing architecture that divides the functions of a computer application into two distinct roles: the client and the server. In this model, clients and servers communicate over a network, typically the internet, to accomplish tasks and share resources. Each role has specific responsibilities and functions within the architecture. |
| Code Editor | A Code Editor is a software application that provides a user interface for writing and editing source code of computer programs. It is a crucial tool for developers, offering features such as syntax highlighting, code completion, and error checking to enhance the coding experience. Code Editors are designed to facilitate the creation and maintenance of code by providing a clean and organized environment. Examples of popular Code Editors include Visual Studio Code, Sublime Text, and Atom, each offering a range of features and extensions to support various programming languages and workflows.</a> |
| Computer Network | A Computer Network is a collection of interconnected computers and devices that are capable of sharing resources, information, and services. These networks can be established through various communication channels, such as wired (e.g., Ethernet cables) or wireless (e.g., Wi-Fi) connections. The primary purpose of computer networks is to facilitate communication and data exchange among connected devices. |
| CSS Preprocessor | A CSS Preprocessor is a scripting language that extends the capabilities of Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) by introducing features such as variables, nesting, and functions. It allows developers to write more maintainable and modular stylesheets by incorporating programming-like constructs that are not present in traditional CSS. The preprocessor translates these enhanced styles into standard CSS, which is then interpreted by web browsers. |
| Database | A Database is a structured collection of organized data that is stored electronically in a computer system. Databases are designed to efficiently store, manage, and retrieve information, making them a fundamental component of various software applications and systems. They provide a structured and systematic way to organize data, allowing users and applications to perform operations such as querying, updating, and manipulating the stored information. |
| Database Administrator (DBA) | A Database Administrator (DBA) is a professional responsible for the design, implementation, maintenance, and management of database systems within an organization. The role of a Database Administrator is crucial in ensuring the efficiency, integrity, security, and availability of databases that store and manage an organization's data. |
| Database Management System (DBMS) | A Database Management System (DBMS) is software that facilitates the creation, organization, management, and manipulation of databases. It serves as an interface between users or applications and the underlying database, providing a set of tools and functionalities to efficiently store, retrieve, update, and manage data. The primary role of a DBMS is to ensure the integrity, security, and accessibility of the stored information. Examples of popular Database Management Systems include MySQL, PostgreSQL, Oracle Database, Microsoft SQL Server, and MongoDB. |
| Domain Name System (DNS) | The Domain Name System (DNS) is a hierarchical and distributed naming system that translates user-friendly domain names into numerical IP addresses, facilitating the identification of devices on a computer network. DNS plays a crucial role in enabling users to access websites and other internet services using human-readable domain names, while the underlying network infrastructure relies on IP addresses for communication. |
| End-to-End (E2E) Test | End-to-End Testing (E2E testing) is a software testing methodology that evaluates the functionality and behavior of an entire application from start to finish. The objective of end-to-end testing is to ensure that all components and systems within an application work together as intended, simulating real-world user scenarios. This type of testing validates the flow of data and interactions across the complete software stack, including the user interface, business logic, databases, and external integrations. |
| Ethernet | Ethernet is a widely used standard for wired local area network (LAN) communication. It defines a set of protocols and specifications that enable devices within a local network to communicate with each other using a common networking technology. Ethernet is known for its reliability, scalability, and widespread adoption in both residential and business environments. |
| Extensible Markup Language (XML) | Extensible Markup Language (XML) is a markup language that defines a set of rules for encoding documents in a format that is both human-readable and machine-readable. XML is designed to facilitate the storage and exchange of structured data between different systems and platforms, making it a widely used standard for representing and transmitting information. |
| Front End Developer | A Front End Developer is a specialist who focuses on the design, development, and implementation of the user interface and user experience of a website or web application. This includes coding and structuring the visual elements of a website, such as layouts, navigation, and interactive features, using languages such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Front End Developers are responsible for ensuring that the user interface is visually appealing, responsive, and functional across various devices and browsers. They collaborate with Back End Developers and designers to integrate the front end with the back end, creating a seamless and engaging user experience.</a> |
| Full Stack Developer | A Full Stack Developer is a versatile professional with expertise in both the front end and back end development of web applications or software systems. Full Stack Developers are proficient in a wide range of technologies and programming languages, allowing them to work on all aspects of a project, from user interface design to server-side scripting and database management. They possess the skills to develop and maintain both the client-side and server-side components of an application, enabling them to contribute to every stage of the software development lifecycle. Full Stack Developers often have a comprehensive understanding of various frameworks, databases, and deployment environments, making them capable of creating end-to-end solutions that meet the requirements of a given project. |
| HyperText Markup Language (HTML) | HyperText Markup Language (HTML) is a standard markup language used to structure content on the web. It consists of a set of elements or tags that define the structure and semantics of a document, such as a webpage. HTML allows web browsers to interpret and display content, incorporating text, images, links, forms, and other multimedia elements. |
| HyperText Transfer Protocol | HyperText Transfer Protocol (HTTP) is an application layer protocol used for the communication and transfer of data over the World Wide Web. It forms the foundation for data communication on the internet and enables the exchange of hypertext, multimedia, and other files between clients (typically web browsers) and servers. HTTP follows a client-server model, where clients make requests for resources, and servers respond with the requested data. |
| Integration Test | Integration Testing is a software testing technique that focuses on evaluating the interactions and interfaces between different components or modules of a software system. The primary goal of integration testing is to ensure that these components work seamlessly together as an integrated unit, uncovering any issues that may arise due to the interactions between them. |
| Internet | The Internet is a global network of interconnected computer networks that use standardized communication protocols to link devices worldwide. It is a vast, decentralized infrastructure that facilitates the exchange of data, information, and resources. The Internet enables communication, collaboration, and the dissemination of content across various platforms, including websites, email, file sharing, and real-time communication. |
| Internet Service Provider (ISP) | An Internet Service Provider (ISP) is a company or organization that provides access to the Internet for individuals, businesses, and other entities. ISPs offer various connectivity services, allowing users to connect to the Internet and access its resources, such as websites, email, and online applications. ISPs play a crucial role in facilitating the transmission of data between users and the global network. |
| Internet Protocol (IP) | Internet Protocol (IP) is a set of rules and conventions that govern the format and addressing of data packets transmitted over a computer network. It is a fundamental protocol in the suite of protocols that form the basis of the Internet, known as the Internet Protocol Suite or the TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol) protocol stack. |
| Intranet | An Intranet is a private and internal network within an organization that utilizes Internet protocols and technologies for the purpose of communication, collaboration, and information sharing among its members. Unlike the Internet, which is a global network accessible to the public, an intranet is restricted to the organization's internal users, typically employees. |
| IP Address | An IP address, or Internet Protocol address, is a numerical label assigned to each device connected to a computer network that uses the Internet Protocol for communication. IP addresses serve two primary purposes: identifying the host or network interface and providing the location of the host in the network. |
| JavaScript | JavaScript is a versatile, high-level, and interpreted programming language primarily used for developing dynamic and interactive content on the World Wide Web. It is one of the core technologies for building web applications, providing the ability to create client-side scripts that run within web browsers. JavaScript enables developers to enhance the user experience by creating responsive and interactive elements on web pages. |
| JavaSript Object Notation (JSON) | JavaScript Object Notation (JSON) is a lightweight data interchange format that is easy for humans to read and write and easy for machines to parse and generate. JSON is a text-based, language-independent data format derived from JavaScript object literal notation, but it is used with various programming languages for data transmission and configuration. |
| Local Area Network (LAN) | A Local Area Network (LAN) is a network of interconnected computers and devices within a limited geographic area, such as a home, office, or campus. LANs are designed to facilitate communication, resource sharing, and data exchange among devices within the defined geographical scope. These networks typically use high data transfer rates and are characterized by low latency. |
| Metropolitan Area Network (MAN) | A Metropolitan Area Network (MAN) is a network infrastructure that covers a larger geographic area than a Local Area Network (LAN) but is more limited in scope compared to a Wide Area Network (WAN). A MAN typically spans a city or a large campus, connecting multiple LANs and providing high-speed data transfer and communication services within the defined metropolitan region. |
| Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) Model | The Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model is a conceptual framework that standardizes the functions of a telecommunication or computing system into seven abstract layers. It was developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) to facilitate communication between different systems and ensure interoperability. The OSI model serves as a reference model for understanding and designing network architectures. |
| Personal Area Network (PAN) | A Personal Area Network (PAN) is a network for personal devices within the immediate proximity of an individual. It typically involves the interconnection of personal computing devices such as laptops, smartphones, tablets, and wearable devices. PANs are designed for short-range communication and are often used for personal convenience and data exchange between devices owned or operated by a single individual. |
| Polyfill | A Polyfill is a piece of code, often written in JavaScript, that provides modern functionalities to web browsers or environments that lack native support for those features. The term "polyfill" is a combination of "poly" (meaning many) and "fill," indicating its purpose of filling the gaps in browser support. |
| Quality Assurance Testing (QAT) | Quality Assurance Testing (QAT) is a systematic process within the software development lifecycle that focuses on ensuring the quality and reliability of a software product. QA testing involves various activities and methodologies aimed at identifying and addressing defects, verifying that the software meets specified requirements, and ensuring overall product excellence. The goal of QA testing is to deliver a high-quality, error-free product that satisfies customer expectations. |
| Quality Assurance (QA) Tester | A Quality Assurance (QA) Tester is a professional responsible for evaluating and ensuring the quality of software applications by conducting systematic testing activities throughout the software development lifecycle. QA Testers play a crucial role in identifying defects, verifying that software meets specified requirements, and contributing to the overall improvement of product quality. |
| Raster Image | A Raster Image, also known as a bitmap image, is a two-dimensional digital graphic composed of a grid or matrix of individual pixels. Each pixel represents a discrete point of color within the image, and the collective arrangement of these pixels forms the visual content. Raster images are characterized by their resolution, which is determined by the total number of pixels in width and height. Common raster image formats include JPEG, PNG, GIF, and BMP. |
| Regression Test | A Regression Test is a type of software testing that focuses on verifying whether changes to a software application have introduced new defects or affected existing functionalities. The purpose of regression testing is to ensure that modifications, updates, or new features do not negatively impact the established behavior of the software and that previously working functionalities remain intact. |
| Responsive Web Design (RWD) | Responsive Web Design (RWD) is an approach to web design and development that aims to create websites and web applications that provide an optimal viewing and interaction experience across a wide range of devices and screen sizes. The primary goal of responsive web design is to ensure that the content and layout of a website automatically adapt and respond to the characteristics of the device on which it is being viewed, whether it is a desktop computer, laptop, tablet, or smartphone. |
| Scalable Vector Graphic (SVG) | Scalable Vector Graphics (SVG) is an XML-based vector image format designed for describing two-dimensional vector graphics. Unlike raster images, which are composed of pixels and can lose quality when scaled, SVG images are resolution-independent and can be scaled to any size without loss of clarity or detail. SVG is widely used on the web for creating graphics that adapt seamlessly to different display sizes and resolutions. |
| Secure Socket Layer (SSL) | Secure Socket Layer (SSL) is a deprecated cryptographic protocol designed to provide secure communication over a computer network, most commonly the internet. SSL has been succeeded by Transport Layer Security (TLS), but the term "SSL" is often used colloquially to refer to both SSL and TLS protocols. |
| Smoke Test | A Smoke Test is a preliminary and minimal set of tests conducted on a software build or system to quickly assess its basic functionality and determine whether it is stable enough for more in-depth testing. The primary objective of a smoke test is to identify critical issues or major failures that might impede further testing or usage of the software. |
| Software Engineer | A Software Engineer is a professional who applies engineering principles to the entire software development process. This includes designing, building, testing, deploying, and maintaining software systems. Software Engineers analyze user requirements, design software solutions, and write efficient, maintainable code using programming languages and development tools. Software Engineers are proficient in programming languages, software development methodologies, and often specialize in specific domains, such as web development, mobile app development, or systems programming. Their role also involves debugging and troubleshooting code, optimizing software performance, and staying updated on emerging technologies and industry best practices. |
| Structured Query Language (SQL) | Structured Query Language (SQL) is a standard programming language designed for managing and manipulating relational databases. SQL provides a set of commands and syntax for defining, querying, updating, and managing relational database systems, allowing users to interact with and retrieve information from databases. |
| Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) | Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) is one of the core protocols in the Internet Protocol Suite (TCP/IP). It operates at the transport layer of the OSI model and provides reliable, connection-oriented communication between two devices over a network. TCP ensures the efficient, error-checked, and ordered delivery of data between applications running on different hosts. |
| TCP/IP | Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) is a comprehensive suite of networking protocols that forms the foundation of communication on the internet and many other computer networks. TCP/IP defines a set of rules and conventions for transmitting data between devices, facilitating reliable and standardized communication across diverse networks. |
| Transport Layer Security (TLS) | Transport Layer Security (TLS) is a cryptographic protocol designed to provide secure communication over a computer network, typically the internet. TLS operates at the transport layer of the OSI model and ensures the privacy and integrity of data exchanged between two systems by encrypting the communication channel. |
| Uniform Resource Locator (URL) | A Uniform Resource Locator (URL) is a standardized address used to identify and locate resources on the internet. It serves as a reference or link to a specific resource, such as a web page, file, or service, making it accessible and retrievable through web browsers or other applications. URLs are composed of several components that define the protocol, domain, path, and additional parameters necessary for accessing the resource. |
| Unit Test | A Unit Test is a type of software testing where individual components or units of a software application are isolated and tested in isolation to ensure their correctness and functionality. The purpose of unit testing is to validate that each unit of the software performs as designed and to identify and fix any defects in the early stages of development. |
| Version Control System | A Version Control System (VCS) is a software tool that enables developers to track and manage changes to the source code or other files in a collaborative software development environment. It provides a systematic and organized way to record modifications, additions, and deletions made to files over time. Version Control Systems allow multiple developers to work on a project simultaneously, maintaining a complete history of revisions. Common Version Control Systems include Git, Mercurial, and Subversion, each offering unique features and workflows for managing the evolution of software projects efficiently. |
| Virtual Private Network | A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a technology that establishes a secure and encrypted connection, often over the internet, to enable secure communication and data exchange between two or more devices or networks. VPNs are commonly used to enhance privacy, security, and anonymity, particularly when accessing the internet from public or untrusted networks. |
| Web Accessibility | Web Accessibility refers to the inclusive practice of designing and developing websites and web applications to ensure that people with disabilities can perceive, understand, navigate, and interact with the content effectively. The goal of web accessibility is to provide equal access and usability for all individuals, regardless of their abilities or disabilities. |
| Web Browser | A web browser is a software application that enables users to access, navigate, and interact with content on the World Wide Web. It acts as a client, retrieving and displaying web pages and other resources from the internet. Web browsers play a central role in the user's online experience by interpreting and rendering HTML, CSS, and other web technologies to present content in a visually readable format. Popular web browsers include Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge, Apple Safari, and Opera. |
| Web Designer | A Web Designer is a professional who specializes in the visual and aesthetic aspects of website creation. They are responsible for designing the overall look and feel of a website, focusing on elements such as layout, color schemes, typography, and graphic elements. Web Designers use tools like graphic design software and prototyping tools to create visually appealing and user-friendly interfaces. Their role involves collaborating with clients, stakeholders, and other team members to understand project requirements and translate them into compelling and intuitive designs. While Web Designers primarily focus on the visual aspects, some may also have knowledge of front-end development technologies to implement their designs effectively on the web. |
| Web Developer | A Web Developer is a professional who specializes in the development of websites or web applications. This role encompasses both front end and back end development, involving the creation of the user interface, server-side logic, and database interactions. Web Developers use a variety of programming languages, frameworks, and tools to build responsive, scalable, and functional web solutions. They work closely with design teams to implement visual elements and ensure a seamless user experience. Web Developers may specialize further into Front End Developers, Back End Developers, or Full Stack Developers, depending on their expertise and focus within the web development process. Their responsibilities also include troubleshooting, debugging, and optimizing web applications to enhance performance and meet project requirements. |
| Wide Area Network (WAN) | A Wide Area Network (WAN) is a type of computer network that spans a large geographic area, connecting multiple local area networks (LANs) and other network devices. WANs are designed to facilitate long-distance communication and data exchange between widely distributed locations, such as different offices, branches, or cities. |
| Wireless Network | A Wireless Network is a type of computer network that enables communication and data transfer between devices without the need for physical cables or wires. Instead, wireless networks utilize radio waves, microwaves, or infrared signals to transmit and receive data between devices, providing a flexible and convenient means of connectivity. |
| World Wide Web (www) | The World Wide Web (WWW), commonly known as the Web, is an information system on the internet that allows users to access and interact with multimedia content through web pages. It is a vast and interconnected collection of websites, documents, images, videos, and other resources linked together using hyperlinks and URLs (Uniform Resource Locators). |