For nearly all of us, technology is an integral part of our everyday lives. Many of us, however, still are hazy on a number of common technology terms. Fortunately, for those that are unsure, we have created a mini glossary of common tech terms you should be familiar with.

Cookies

Cookies allow websites to identify you when you revisit them. By allowing cookies, you are letting your browser store your information, such as username, password and preferences, and provide it for the site you are visiting. They are a time-saver that can be very convenient for avid Internet users.

Although cookies are incredibly convenient, some see them as a privacy issue. They store your information and track your activity, which can make it easier for others to access your information. Most experts agree, however, that limiting the amount of cookies you use is sufficient for protecting your online identity.

URL

A URL, or uniform resource locator, is the web address for a certain site. It is what you type into the address bar at the top of your web browser which takes you to the website you wish to visit.

Cloud

The cloud is one of the most talked about tech terms today. It is talked about on television and in blogs and newspaper articles. The cloud is made up of services that are based on the Internet and do not require you to install hardware or software on your machine.

Flash

Flash is an Adobe-owned platform that enables you to view certain things on your computer. Many people install Flash players or plug-ins in order to watch videos or animation or see dynamic displays on websites. Although Flash has been the longtime leader in its field, HTML5 is quickly catching up with it.

Technology-related terms can seem overwhelming but understanding the basics can make it all much easier to grasp.

If you’d like to see a more in-depth description of tech terms, take a look at this glossary.