Ctrl+Alt+Delete Pressing and holding down the Ctrl key, then the Alt key, and then the Delete key, simultaneously, to close a program that is locked (not responding). Use Ctrl+Alt+Delete a second time to shut down a computer that is locked. Unsaved data is erased from memory. When the computer restarts, it displays an error message that Windows was not properly shut down, and it scans the hard disk for errors.
cursor The blinking vertical line on the screen that indicates where the next character appears when you type.
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data Information that can be processed by a computer. See digital.
database A collection of similar data that is designed for easy retrieval of information.
dedicated line A telephone line that is always connected to the modem (inside the computer) to provide constant access to the Internet. A separate telephone line is used for phone calls. See modem.
default The option that the software automatically chooses for you when you don’t indicate a choice yourself. For example, when you print a document, the Print dialogue box asks which pages to print (the default is All) and how many
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copies to print (the default is 1). You can change the settings, and you can designate the new settings as the default.
defragmenting The rearrangement of files and unused space on your hard disk so programs can run faster.
desktop See Windows desktop.
dialogue box A small window that requests information from the user before a command can be carried out.
digital A system that uses electronic signals to transfer data in the form of bits. A bit is represented by a single digit. Computers use only two digits – either a
0 or a 1 – in various combinations. See bit and byte.
discussion group A group discussion on a topic of mutual interest held on the Internet. Instead of meeting in a classroom, students may meet for group discussions on the Internet.