Relational Database Definition
A relational database is a database model that stores data in tables. The vast majority of databases used in modern applications are relational, so the terms "database" and "relational database" are often used synonymously. Likewise, most database management systems (DBMSes) are relational database management systems (RDBMSes). Other database models include flat file and hierarchical databases, though these are rarely used.
Each table in a relational database cont...
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iPad Definition
iPad Definition
The iPad is a tablet computer developed by Apple. It is smaller than a typical laptop, but significantly larger than the average smartphone. The iPad does not include a keyboard or a trackpad, but instead has a touchscreen interface, which is used to control the device.
Like the iPhone, the iPad runs Apple's iOS operating system. This allows the iPad to run third-party apps, which can downloaded from Apple's App Store. While apps designed for the iPhone can also be installed and...
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Array Definition
Array Definition
An array is a data structure that contains a group of elements. Typically these elements are all of the same data type, such as an integer or string. Arrays are commonly used in computer programs to organize data so that a related set of values can be easily sorted or searched.
For example, a search engine may use an array to store Web pages found in a search performed by the user. When displaying the results, the program will output one element of the array at a time. This may...
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OOP Definition
OOP Definition
Stands for "Object-Oriented Programming." OOP (not Oops!) refers to a programming methodology based on objects, instead of just functions and procedures. These objects are organized into classes, which allow individual objects to be grouped together. Most modern programming languages including Java, C/C++, and PHP, are object-oriented languages, and many older programming languages now have object-oriented versions.
An "object" in an OOP language refers to a specific type, or "in...
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Null Definition
Null Definition
When a variable has no value, it considered to be null. Having a null value is different than having a value of 0, since 0 is an actual value. However, when used in a boolean test, both null and zero result in a FALSE value. Programmers often use boolean tests to determine whether a variable has been given a value or not.
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Router Definition
Router Definition
This is a hardware device that routes data (hence the name) from a local area network (LAN) to another network connection. A router acts like a coin sorting machine, allowing only authorized machines to connect to other computer systems. Most routers also keep log files about the local network activity.
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C# Definition
C# Definition
C# (pronounced "C Sharp") is a programming language developed by Microsoft. It was introduced in 2002 with version 1.0 of Microsoft's .NET Framework. Since then, C# has gone through several revisions, corresponding with each .NET update. Today, it is one of the most popular programming languages for creating Windows programs and web applications.
C# is a derivative of the C programming language and is similar to C++. It uses the same basic operators as C++, is object oriented, cas...
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High-Level Language Definition
High-Level Language Definition
A high-level language is a programming language designed to simplify computer programming. It is "high-level" since it is several steps removed from the actual code run on a computer's processor. High-level source code contains easy-to-read syntax that is later converted into a low-level language, which can be recognized and run by a specific CPU.
Most common programming languages are considered high-level languages. Examples include:
C++
C#
Cobol
Fo...
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Swift Definition
Swift Definition
Swift is a high-level programming language developed by Apple and made available in 2014. It is designed for writing apps for Apple platforms, including macOS, iOS, tvOS, and watchOS.
The Swift language is based on Objective-C, which was used for NeXTSTEP development in the 1980s, and later macOS and iOS. Swift has similar syntax and maintains the object-oriented features of Objective-C, but provides a more simplified programming experience. For example, Swift code is easier to...
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Low-Level Language Definition
Low-Level Language Definition
A low-level language is a type of programming language that contains basic instructions recognized by a computer. Unlike high-level languages used by software developers, low-level code is often cryptic and not human-readable. Two common types of low-level programming languages are assembly language and machine language.
Software programs and scripts are written in high-level languages, like C#, Swift, and PHP. A software developer can create and edit source code i...
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