A capability developed my Microsoft for Windows 95 and later operating systems that enables a user to plug a device into a computer and have the computer detect and install the device without the assistance of the user.

A printer that is directly connected to a computer by a cable. The printer is only accessible through the computer to which it is attached.

A printer that is part of a workgroup or network of computers that can be accessed by all users of the network at the same time. The printer can be connected through cables or wirelessly.

A list of hardware, typically including many types of peripherals, proven to be compatible with a particular operating system.

An information profile that uniquely identifies a user on a computer. Every user account on a computer needs to have a unique user name and password.

A unique name identifying a user on a computer.

A case-sensitive string of alphanumeric characters that must be typed before a user can access a computer. A strong password is a combination of both upper- and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.

A set of rules that determines what things a user is allowed to do on a computer and what resources the user can access; by limiting a user's permissions and rights, you can keep the person from opening files, installing unwanted software, or changing certain computer settings.

A control panel option in Windows that allows you to view and control hardware attached to your computer.

Software programs or code intended to address security flaws and performance issues in an existing version of software.

Provides information about the iteration of the software you are using. Software versions are changed every time the software is upgraded or newer features have been added to it.

Small units of supplemental code meant to address either a security problem or a functionality flaw in a software package or operating system.

A patch that is often issued on an emergency basis to address a specific security flaw.

A larger compilation of system updates that can include functionality enhancements, new features, and typically all patches, updates, and hotfixes issued up to the point of the service pack release.

A collection of previously issued patches and hotfixes, usually meant to be applied to one component of a system, such as the web browser or a particular service.

A feature of an operating system or a software application that enables updates to be downloaded and installed automatically on a system at a scheduled time. After a manufacturer releases an update, it gets downloaded to your system the next time you connect to the Internet.

Software programs that are sold together as a set or suite or that are sold with an operating system or with a new computer. Examples of software suites include Microsoft Office and Google Apps.

A listing of the applications that are available on a computer. You can perform a manual inventory by identifying the various applications that are installed, or you can use an inventory utility to create the inventory list.

A slang term that describes software that has lots of features and requires considerable disk space and RAM to install and run.

The use of assistive technology to make computers available and easier to use.

Includes tools that are designed to ensure that people with disabilities are able to use the software.