Information Technology Vocabulary

This is a list of essential information technology vocabulary, a common topic in IELTS. There's also a podcast so you can hear the definitions and examples of the words discussed. 

There is a an example of the word in context, but remember there are many different word forms so do your own research on the words and check how they are used in different situations.

Some words are specific to information technology while others are more general but are useful for this topic.

At the bottom of the page you will find links to essays connected to Information Technology topics. 

Essential IELTS Information
Technology Vocabulary

Access

The right to use or look at something.

• Everybody should have access to the internet.
• Many countries are working to ensure that all citizens have access to digital resources.

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Advanced

Modern and well-developed.

• Technological advances have brought many benefits to the world.
• Japan has very advanced technology.

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Automation

To make a process in a factory or office operate by machines or computers, in order to reduce the amount of work done by humans and the time taken to do the work.

• The automation of production processes has led to increased unemployment.
• Many production processes these days are automated.

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Artificial Intelligence (AI)

The ability of a machine or computer to imitate intelligent human behavior.

• AI is transforming industries by automating complex tasks.
• Chatbots are a common example of artificial intelligence in customer service.

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Big Data

Extremely large data sets that may be analysed computationally to reveal patterns and trends.

• Companies use big data to predict customer behavior.
• Big data analytics is crucial for decision-making in modern businesses.

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Cloud Computing

The practice of using a network of remote servers hosted on the internet to store, manage, and process data.

• Cloud computing allows users to access files from anywhere with an internet connection.
• Businesses are increasingly adopting cloud solutions to reduce IT infrastructure costs.

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Communication

The act of communicating with people.

• Email has made communication, especially abroad, much simpler and faster.
• Communicating with people by email is very easy.

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Connection

When something joins or is joined to something else, or the part or process that makes this possible.

• Most people are connected to the internet these days.
• The internet can connect people around the world.

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Cyber

A prefix for things related to computers, especially the internet.

• Cyberbullying via social media such as Facebook has become a major problem.
• A cybercafe is a place where you can buy drinks and use computers at the same time.

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Cybersecurity

The practice of protecting computers, networks, and data from unauthorised access or attacks.

• Cybersecurity measures are essential to protect sensitive information.
• Many companies invest heavily in cybersecurity to prevent data breaches.

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Device

An object or machine which has been invented for a particular purpose.

• It is important to have some kind of communication device such as a mobile telephone or the internet.
• Tablets are versatile devices used for work, learning, and entertainment.

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Digital Divide

The gap between individuals who have access to modern technology and those who do not.

• Efforts are being made to bridge the digital divide in rural areas.
• The digital divide can limit opportunities for education and employment.

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Innovation

A new idea or method.

• Smart phones are the latest innovation in computer technology.
• Steve Jobs was a great innovator.

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Invention

Something which has never been made before, or the process of creating something which has never been made before.

• The world changed rapidly after the invention of the telephone.
• Many useful devices have been invented over the last few decades.

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Internet of Things (IoT)

The interconnection of everyday devices to the internet, enabling them to send and receive data.

• IoT devices such as smart thermostats can make homes more energy-efficient.
• The Internet of Things is transforming how we interact with technology in daily life.

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Machine

A piece of equipment with several moving parts which uses power to do a particular type of work.

• Factories now make use of machines to do a lot of the work humans used to do.
• Machinery does most of the work in factories.

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Machine Learning

A branch of artificial intelligence that involves training algorithms to learn from and make predictions based on data.

• Machine learning is used in applications like speech recognition and fraud detection.
• Self-driving cars rely on machine learning to navigate roads.

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Software

The programs and operating information used by a computer.

• Installing the latest software updates is crucial for system security.
• Businesses use specialised software to manage their operations efficiently.

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Up-to-date

Modern, recent, or containing the latest information.

• Teenagers think it is important to have the most up-to-date technology.
• My laptop is running the most up-to-date version of its operating system.

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User-friendly

If something, especially something related to a computer, is user-friendly, it is simple for people to use.

• Modern mobile phones such as the iPhone are very user-friendly.
• This app is extremely user-friendly and easy to navigate.

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Virtual Reality (VR)

A simulated experience that can be similar to or completely different from the real world.

• Virtual reality is used in gaming and training simulations.
• VR technology is becoming more accessible to consumers.

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Wi-Fi

A technology that allows electronic devices to connect to the internet wirelessly.

• The coffee shop provides free Wi-Fi for customers.
• A strong Wi-Fi connection is essential for remote work.

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