IELTS Topical VocabularyComputer & Internet

The expressions printed in bold within the paragraphs below can enrich your vocabulary range when you're writing or speaking about topics related to computers or the Internet.

In the fast-paced world of technology, we often encounter ambitious promises, products hyped as revolutionary but ultimately remaining vaporware. However, when it comes to interactive applications, big data takes center stage. Developers harness vast data sets to optimize user experience, personalize content, and predict trends. Striking a delicate balance, they aim to avoid offensive material while ensuring their content goes viral. The challenge lies in creating engaging, data-driven experiences without compromising ethical boundaries.

vaporware (n):
software (or hardware) which has been advertised but is not available to buy and may never be
interactive (adj):
an interactive computer program lets the user affect what happens on the screen
big data (n):
very large sets of information about people who use the Internet, their habits, interests etc. that can be gathered and analyzed for different purposes
developer (n):
a person or a company whose job is creating computer software and websites
user experience / UX (n):
how easy or enjoyable it is for someone to use a product or a website
content (n):
information, images, video clips etc. on a website
offensive material (n):
online material that can be upsetting or insulting in some way
viral (adj):
describing a message, video clip, image etc. that is spread or shared rapidly on the Internet by a large number of people

As a dedicated computer buff, I’m often glued to my screen or phone, exploring the latest advancements in hardware and peripherals. Whether it is a lightning-fast SSD upload or the immersive experience of virtual reality, I am fascinated by new gizmos and how technology shapes our lives. From sleek laptops to cutting-edge VR headsets, the world of peripherals keeps evolving, and I am here for every upgrade!

computer buff (n):
somebody who is very keen on computers, the Internet and different applications and knows a lot about them
be glued to sth (idiom):
giving your full attention to something
peripheral (n):
a device that is connected to a computer like a printer, a monitor etc.
virtual reality / VR (n):
an environment created by a computer that seems very similar to reality to the user
gizmo (n):
a small new gadget
cutting-edge (adj):
the newest and the most advanced
headset (adj):
a piece of equipment worn on the head that lets the user hear sound and see images produced by a computer in front of their eyes

In the digital age, cybersecurity is paramount. With the rise of cloud storage and the increasing use of cryptocurrencies, protecting sensitive data has become more complex. Hackers constantly seek vulnerabilities to exploit, leading to cybercrime incidents. To safeguard information, organizations employ encryption techniques. Whether it is securing financial transactions or safeguarding personal files, encryption plays a crucial role in maintaining privacy and thwarting cyber threats.

cyber (adj):
involving the use of computers and the Internet
cybersecurity (n):
things that are done to protect against electronic crime like hacking etc.
cloud storage (n):
storing data and information online on the Internet rather than on your own computer
cryptocurrency (n):
digital or electronic money used for buying and selling things online
hacker (n):
someone who secretly breaks into another person's computer system to do something illegal
cybercrime (n):
crime that is committed using the Internet
encryption (n):
protecting sensitive information by putting it in a special code, so that others cannot read it

In today’s tech-savvy world, being computer-literate is essential. Whether you are a seasoned silver surfer or a curious beginner, understanding how to work with different gadgets and gizmos, and bridging the digital divide matters.

tech-savvy (adj):
knowing a lot about technology, especially computers
computer-literate (adj):
able to use computers well
silver surfer (n):
an old person who uses the Internet a lot
digital divide (n):
the differences of opportunity between people who have access to the Internet, and those who don't

In today’s interconnected world, Internet access has become a fundamental necessity. People rely on it for various purposes, including online shopping. The rise of e-commerce platforms has revolutionized the way we buy and sell goods. However, with convenience comes challenges. Users often encounter spam emails promoting dubious products or services. On a brighter note, digital formats have made reading more accessible with the popularity of e-books. As technology evolves, we continually seek ways to upgrade our online experiences.

e-commerce (n):
buying and selling things online
platform (n):
a type of computer software
spam (n):
unwanted email sent to advertise something
upgrade (v):
to improve a computer system by using newer software or hardware

When you go online, you can browse the web using a search engine to find relevant information. Whether you are downloading files, syncing data, streaming content, enjoying video playback, participating in video conferencing, or simply exploring websites, it is essential to navigate websites efficiently. Don’t forget to bookmark your favorite pages for easy access. Also, while using a search engine, it is essential to review your privacy settings to avoid encountering any offensive material online.

search engine (n):
a website that helps users to search for something on the Internet
sync (v):
to link two or more devices like a cell phone and a laptop so that the information on all of them is the same
stream (v):
to play video, music etc. online without downloading and saving them on your computer first
playback (n):
the act of playing video, music etc. on your electronic device
navigate (v):
to find your way around on a website or on the Internet
bookmark (v):
to save the address of a website so that you can easily find it later

Word processing is a fundamental task in today’s digital age. Whether you are drafting an email, creating a report, or composing a blog post on social media, having reliable software for word processing is essential. However, unexpected events can occur—like a sudden crash of your application. To prevent data loss, it is crucial to perform regular backups. When you install new software or update your operating system, ensure compatibility with your existing tools. So, whether you are a professional writer or a casual user, understanding these aspects enhances your digital experience. Additionally, leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) tools and exploring available freeware options can further enhance your productivity.

word processing (n):
using a computer to type, edit and save a document
draft an email (v):
to write the first rough version of an email before deciding to send it
blog (n):
a web page where somebody regularly writes about a topic
crash (n):
an occasion when an application or the operating system on your computer suddenly stops working
freeware (n):
computer software that is available on the Internet for everyone free of charge