| A | B |
| Administrator | Type of user account that has higher privileges than a normal user |
| Application | Set of instructions that performs tasks and extends the functions of the computer. Also known as a program or software |
| Application Service Provider licensing | Type of software distribution where the software provider licenses out its software over the Internet on an on-demand basis for a fee. Also called SaaS |
| AutoPlay | Feature that automatically launches the appropriate application when a CD or DVD containing certain files is inserted |
| Beta test | Process of reviewing new software before it is released in order to identify problems with the software |
| Bug | Problem or error in a software program |
| Code | Individual lines of instructions that make up a computer program |
| Compressed files | Files that have been processed into a smaller file size |
| Debug | Process of fixing errors in new software program |
| Early adopter | One of the first people to use new software or hardware |
| Emulation software | Software that enables an application to run on an OS that it is not designed to run on |
| End user license agreement | Agreement between the software company and the user that specifies the conditions the user must follow |
| Executable | Program file that runs on a computer without the aid of any other application. Also the main file that launches an application |
| Freeware | Software that can be downloaded and used without any cost to the user |
| Knowledgebase | Database with information about troubleshooting common problems |
| Malware | Unwanted malicious software |
| Native | Term used to describe the OS that an application will run on |
| Open-source software | Model for software development where users collaborate to make additions and improvements; both the software code and final product are available free to anyone |
| Patch | Software update that fixes bugs and adds minor new features to an applicatio |
| Program | Set of instructions that extends the function of a computer. Also known as an application or software |
| Programmers | Individuals who design and create applications |
| Programming | Designing and creating application |
| Programs and Features applet | Control Panel program that shows a list of all programs currently installed on a computer; allows programs to be uninstalled |
| Quality control | Final step in software development where testers check every feature and function to confirm the software works properly |
| Registry | Windows database that contains detailed information about a computer |
| Shareware | Free trial version of paid software; usually has limited functionality or a limited time period of use |
| Software | Coded instructions that extend the functions of a computer. Also known as an application or program |
| Software as a Service | Service where the software provider licenses out its software over the Internet on an on-demand basis for a fee. Also known as ASP licensing |
| Spyware | Malicious program installed without the user’s knowledge while surfing the Internet that tracks the user’s activities and gathers other information |
| Update | New version of an application that fixes problems or adds features. Also called an upgrade |
| Upgrade | New version of an application that fixes problems or adds features. Also called an update |