Tech Jargon Made Simple: A Beginner’s Guide

If you’re thinking about making the leap from teaching to the tech world, you might have come across a little challenge – the baffling world of tech jargon. This is especially so if you don’t have any background in tech.

Believe me, I’ve been right where you are. In my previous job, I was a language and communications teacher, while my background was in Life Sciences. I didn’t have much exposure to techy terms at all. So when I first started my journey into tech, terms like “SaaS,” “API keys,” and “SSO” felt like a code I couldn’t crack. I realized I didn’t even know what “WiFi” stood for (FYI it stands for ‘Wireless Fidelity’!).

But don’t worry, I’m here to help make this transition smoother for you. Let’s roll up our sleeves, break down 15 common tech terms, and simplify them so you can be more empowered to explore the world of tech!

1. SaaS (Software as a Service)

Simplified: SaaS is like renting software online instead of buying it. Think of Google Docs or Microsoft 365.

Example: Google Workspace lets you create, edit, and store documents in the cloud without installing software on your computer.

2. API Keys (Application Programming Interface Keys)

Simplified: API keys are like secret passwords that allow different apps and programs to talk to each other. They ensure that data is securely shared between them.

Example: When you use Google Maps on a website to find directions, the website uses an API key to communicate with Google’s servers.

3. SSO (Single Sign-On)

Simplified: SSO is like having one master key that unlocks all your accounts. You sign in once, and it grants access to multiple applications without re-entering your password.

Example: Logging into your company’s portal gives you access to your email, project management tools, and more, all with a single login.

4. HTML (Hypertext Markup Language)

Simplified: HTML is the language websites use to structure content. It’s like the framework of a building that defines where everything goes.

Example: In HTML, “< h1 >” (no spaces) tags create headlines, and “< p >” (no spaces) tags make paragraphs.

5. RAM (Random Access Memory)

Simplified: RAM is your computer’s short-term memory. It stores data your computer is currently using, like open applications and files.

Example: If you have multiple browser tabs open, they’re stored in RAM for quick access.

6. URL (Uniform Resource Locator)

Simplified: A URL is a web address. It’s like the address of a house, telling your browser where to find a webpage.

Example: http://www.teachertechtransform.com is a URL.

7. Cloud Computing

Simplified: Cloud computing is like using someone else’s computer over the internet. It allows you to access and store data and run software without needing your hardware.

Example: Storing photos on Google Drive or using Microsoft 365 online is a form of cloud computing.

8. VPN (Virtual Private Network)

Simplified: A VPN is like an invisibility cloak for your internet activity. It encrypts your data and masks your location, enhancing online privacy and security.

Example: When you use a VPN, it hides your real IP address, making it appear as though you’re browsing from a different location.

9. Server

Simplified: A server is like a powerful computer that stores and manages data, providing services or resources to other computers (clients) over a network, like the internet.

Example: When you visit a website, your browser sends a request to a server, which then sends back the webpage for you to view.

10. Browser

Simplified: A browser is like the window to the internet. It’s the software you use to view websites.

Example: Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Microsoft Edge are browsers.

11. Firewall

Simplified: A firewall is like a security guard for your computer. It monitors incoming and outgoing data to block harmful or unauthorized access.

Example: Your computer’s firewall may prevent malicious software from infecting your system.

12. Bug

Simplified: A bug is like a mistake or glitch in software that causes it to work incorrectly.

Example: If a website button doesn’t respond when clicked, it might have a bug.

13. Algorithm

Simplified: An algorithm is like a recipe for solving a problem. It’s a step-by-step set of instructions for a computer to follow.

Example: Search engines use algorithms to rank websites in search results.

14. Encryption

Simplified: Encryption is like turning your message into a secret code so that only the intended recipient can read it.

Example: When you use secure messaging apps, your messages are encrypted for privacy.

15. Open Source

Simplified: Open source is like a recipe that’s freely available for anyone to use, modify, and share. It encourages collaboration and transparency.

Example: The Linux operating system is open source, allowing developers worldwide to contribute to its improvement.

Now that we’ve demystified these terms, I hope you’re feeling more confident about your tech journey. If you have questions, want to share your experiences, or simply want to chat about your transition from teaching to tech, please leave a comment below. Your insights and stories can be invaluable to others considering the same path. Together, we’re making tech accessible and exciting!