AI Words in Plain English

A computer program that can learn from information and answer questions, have conversations, write text, or create images. Think of it like a very knowledgeable assistant.

A set of instructions a computer follows, like a recipe. When you search Google, an algorithm decides which results to show you first.

Short for 'application' — a program you open on your phone or computer to do something specific, like check the weather, send email, or chat with AI.

A file (like a photo or document) that you send along with an email, the way you might clip a note to a paper letter.

The program you use to visit websites. Common browsers include Google Chrome, Safari, Firefox, and Microsoft Edge.

A computer program you can have a conversation with by typing. ChatGPT is a very advanced chatbot.

A popular AI assistant made by a company called OpenAI. It's free to use at chat.openai.com and can help you write, answer questions, and much more.

Storing your photos, documents, or information on the internet instead of only on your device. This means you can access your files from any device, anywhere.

A small piece of data a website saves on your device to remember who you are, like remembering your login or preferences.

A fake photo, video, or audio recording made by AI that looks and sounds real. Scammers use deepfakes to create false videos of celebrities or family members.

Saving something from the internet to your device. When you save a photo or install an app, you are downloading it.

Electronic mail — messages sent over the internet, like digital letters. Gmail, Yahoo Mail, and Outlook are popular email services.

A way of scrambling information so that only the intended person can read it. When a website shows a padlock icon, your connection is encrypted and secure.

When AI creates something new from scratch, like writing a letter, making an image, or composing a song.

The world's most popular search engine. You can also use Google's AI assistant called Gemini at gemini.google.com.

When AI makes up information that isn't true and presents it confidently. Always double-check important facts from AI with a trusted source.

A worldwide network connecting billions of computers, phones, and devices. It's what allows you to browse websites, send emails, and use AI tools.

A clickable piece of text or image on a website that takes you to another page. Usually shown in blue or underlined.

Entering your username and password to access a website or app. Like using a key to open a door.

A secret word or phrase that keeps your online accounts private. A strong password uses letters, numbers, and symbols.

A scam where someone sends a fake email or message pretending to be a trustworthy company to trick you into giving them your personal information.

An add-on that gives a program extra abilities — like adding a spell-checker to your browser.

Keeping your personal information safe and under your control. Good privacy means being careful about what you share online.

The question or instruction you give to an AI. 'Help me write a birthday card for my grandson' is a prompt.

A website like Google or Bing that helps you find information online by typing in keywords.

Unwanted emails or messages you didn't ask for. Often trying to sell something, scam you, or advertise a product. Move them to your trash folder.

Watching or listening to content (movies, music, TV shows) over the internet without downloading it first. Netflix and Spotify are streaming services.

AI technology that reads written text out loud in a human-sounding voice. Useful if reading on screens is difficult.

An extra security step when logging into an account. After entering your password, the website sends a code to your phone to confirm it's really you.

Installing the newest version of an app or your device's software. Updates fix problems and improve security — it's a good idea to do them.

Sending a file (like a photo or document) from your device to the internet. The opposite of download.

The web address of a website — the text that starts with 'https://' that you type in your browser's address bar.

The name you use to log into a website. Often your email address or a name you chose when you signed up.

Confirming that you are who you say you are. Websites may send a code to your email or phone to verify your identity.

An AI helper you can talk to or type to. Siri (Apple), Alexa (Amazon), and Google Assistant are popular virtual assistants.

A harmful program that can damage your computer or steal information. Keep your device's security software updated to protect against viruses.

Short for Virtual Private Network — a tool that makes your internet connection more private. Like browsing with a disguise.

Wireless internet connection that lets your phone, tablet, or computer connect to the internet without a cable. Your home router creates your Wi-Fi network.

A collection of pages on the internet with related information, all under the same web address. Like aiguerrilla.net.

Connecting to the internet or other devices without a physical cable, using Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.

The collection of all websites on the internet. Often just called 'the web.' When you browse websites, you're using the World Wide Web.

A popular video calling program for seeing and talking to family or friends over the internet. Often used for video meetings.

An app or program that securely stores all your passwords so you only need to remember one master password.

Apple's voice-activated AI assistant, built into iPhones, iPads, and Macs. Say 'Hey Siri' followed by a question.

Amazon's voice-activated AI assistant, built into Amazon Echo devices. Say 'Alexa' followed by your question.

A wireless technology that connects devices over short distances — like connecting wireless headphones to your phone.

A flat, portable computer with a touchscreen. The iPad is the most popular tablet.

A screen you control by touching it with your fingers instead of using a mouse.

A square pattern of black and white dots that your phone camera can scan to open a website or get information. Like a barcode for the internet.

A picture of whatever is currently displayed on your screen. Useful for saving information or sharing what you see.

Paying a regular fee (usually monthly or yearly) to use a service, like Netflix or a news website.