Your computer’s long-term storage for files, programs, and the operating system itself.

A block of metal fins that draws heat away from the CPU or GPU. Usually topped with a fan.

Saves your system state to disk and shuts down. Uses zero power but, is slower to resume.

Files configured not to show up in regular file browsers. Usually system files.

The Hypertext Transfer Protocol that powers the web. More secure HTTPS is becoming the standard.

Paying a company to store your website’s files and data on a server so it’s accessible 24/7.

A digital fingerprint of some data. Used to verify that files haven’t been tampered with.

High Dynamic Range. Heightens a picture’s dynamic range (contrast) for richer, more detailed images.