Glossary
Technology has its own language. Although we’ve tried to minimise the amount of technical jargon used on the site, you may find these definitions useful:
3G/4G/5G
Networks that connect mobile phones to the internet, 5G is the fastest
Android
An operating system for mobiles that’s based on Linux open source software
Apple/Mac
The developer and manufacturer of popular Mac and iPhone devices which use Apple’s own operating system, iOS
Applications (apps)
A form of software designed to help an end user achieve a particular purpose, e.g. FaceTime (seeing relatives), Zoom (virtual meetings) or Google Classroom (online schooling)
Bar
A limit imposed by a telco which prevents users from racking up unexpected bills (e.g. for out-of-allowance use)
Broadband
A fast internet connection at a fixed location, e.g. at an end user’s home
Chrome OS
Google’s operating system, often used by schools to run Google Classroom (for remote learners)
CloudReady
Software produced by Neverware, used to give pre-loved laptops Chromebook functionality
Commercial partner
A partner who delivers services in order to make profits
Community organisation
An organisation already working with a community to improve its residents’ lives, e.g. library, school or charity
Connectivity
The ability to connect to the internet through a SIM data package, broadband, mobile/WiFi network or free public network
Data package
A set amount of data that can be accessed via a device, normally over a month
Data privacy
The protection of data through the control of data collection, storage and sharing
Data wiping
The process of removing personal data from a device so the next user can’t access the previous user’s information
Device accessories
Hardware without which the device isn’t usable, e.g. charger
Device donation, restoration and delivery process
The person or organisation who is willing to transfer ownership of a device to someone else
Device restoration
The first stage of making a device ready for an end user by wiping data, assessing its condition and ensuring its software operates correctly
Donor
The person or organisation who is willing to transfer ownership of a device to someone else
E-waste
Unwanted or unusable electronics which should be disposed of responsibly due to data privacy and environmental concerns
Factory reset
A software restore which returns a device to its original factory settings, removing all information on the device in the process
Free Public Networks
Less secure internet connections which are open to the public, usually over WiFi, e.g. those in cafes or libraries
GDPR
A regulation designed to safeguard personal data
Hardware
A device’s physical parts, e.g. battery or screen
Hardware diagnostics
The process of testing the hardware on a device to establish if it’s in good working order
Hotspot
A location where people can connect to the internet, often for free
Hyperlocal
An organisation looking to make an impact in its local community
iOS
Apple’s operating system, used on iPhones, iPads (tablets) and Macbook (laptops)
Laptops
Small, portable computers which include a screen and keyboard
Licenses
The legal right to use software (e.g. an operating system) within set guidelines
Mobile phone network
A means of connecting to the internet for mobile phones or dongles as provided by telcos, described as either 3G, 4G or 5G
Mobile/Wi-Fi dongle
A small device which plugs into a USB port and allows connectivity via 3G, 4G or 5G
Open source software
Software which can be downloaded, installed and used free of charge
Operating system
Software which controls a device’s hardware and enables other software to run, most commonly Windows, iOS or Chrome OS
Partners
Third parties whose support will help you Reboot more devices, e.g. telcos
PAYG
A means of accessing the internet using pre-paid credit, this can be easily topped up
Readying the device
The second stage of making a device ready for an end user by installing suitable apps
Recipient
The person who receives a restored device
SIM
A card that slots into a mobile phone or a dongle to allow connection to a mobile phone network
Smart Phones
Mobile phones which can access the internet, take photographs and run apps
Software
Programmes which run on a device, e.g. apps
Tablets
Handheld mobile computers characterised by large touch screens, e.g. the Apple iPad
Telco
A telecommunications company which provides connectivity for devices
USB port
A type of connection found on laptops and some tablets, these are not used on mobile phones
User ready
A device that is ready for immediate deployment and use
WiFi
A means of using an internet connection without wires, e.g. a connection provided within a library or other public place
Windows
The most popular operating system, developed by Microsoft
If you’d like to suggest a word or term for inclusion in the glossary, please contact us.