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Flagstaff Web Architects (AZ)

Web Design Glossary

Welcome to our web design glossary! This webpage is a comprehensive resource for all the technical terms and jargon you may encounter in the world of web development. From HTML and CSS to JavaScript and PHP, we’ve got you covered with clear, concise definitions and explanations of all the key concepts. The glossary is regularly updated with the latest industry terms and technologies to make sure you always have the information you need.

Whether you’re a beginner just learning the basics or an experienced developer looking for a quick reference, our glossary is an invaluable resource for anyone working in web development.

301 Redirect

A 301 redirect is a type of HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) response status code that indicates that a webpage has been permanently moved to a new URL. When a user or search engine attempts to access a webpage that has been permanently moved, the server returns a 301 redirect status code, along with the new URL, to redirect the user or search engine to the new location.

301 redirects are used to inform users and search engines that a webpage has been permanently moved and to update their bookmarks or search index to reflect the new location. They are typically used when a webpage has been permanently moved or when the content of the webpage has been consolidated with another webpage.

301 redirects are an important tool for maintaining the integrity of a website and for ensuring that users and search engines can find the correct content. They help to prevent broken links and to ensure that users and search engines are directed to the correct location, even if the original URL has changed.

Overall, 301 redirects are a useful tool for managing the content and structure of a website and for ensuring that users and search engines can easily find the content they are looking for.

404 Page Not Found Error

A 404 page not found error is a type of HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) response status code that indicates that the server was unable to find the requested webpage. This error is typically displayed when a user attempts to access a webpage that does not exist or that has been moved or deleted.

When a server returns a 404 error, it typically displays a default error page, which includes a message explaining that the requested webpage could not be found and a suggestion to try again or to check the URL for errors.

404 errors can occur for a variety of reasons, including typing in the wrong URL, following a broken or outdated link, or deleting or moving a webpage without properly redirecting the old URL.

To prevent 404 errors, it is important to ensure that all links on a website are correct and up to date, and to properly redirect any URLs that have been moved or deleted. It is also a good idea to create a custom 404 error page that provides users with useful information and suggestions for finding the content they are looking for.

Overall, 404 errors are a common occurrence on the web and can be frustrating for users, but they can be easily avoided by properly managing the content and structure of a website.

A/B Testing

A/B testing is a method of comparing two versions of something, such as a website or a marketing campaign, to determine which one performs better. In an A/B test, one version of the thing being tested is shown to one group of people, while the other version is shown to a second group. The results of the test are then compared to see which version performed better. This allows businesses to make data-driven decisions about their products and marketing efforts. A/B testing is commonly used in web design and marketing to optimize websites and campaigns for maximum effectiveness.

Above the Fold

Above the fold refers to the portion of a website or other digital content that is visible without the need to scroll. This term comes from the newspaper industry, where the most important headlines and stories were traditionally placed “above the fold” of the newspaper so that they could be seen by readers as soon as they picked up the paper. In the context of web design, above the fold refers to the portion of a website that is immediately visible to the user when they first land on the page. The content that appears above the fold is often considered to be the most important because it is the first thing that users will see, so web designers often prioritize placing important content and calls to action above the fold.

Accessibility

In web terms, accessibility refers to the practice of making websites and web applications that can be used by people with disabilities. This can include things like making sure that text can be resized and that images have appropriate alt text so that people who are blind or have low vision can use the website. It can also include things like making sure that the website is compatible with screen readers and other assistive technologies that people with disabilities may use. Ultimately, the goal of accessibility in web design is to make sure that everyone, regardless of their abilities, can access and use the content on a website.

ADA compliance

ADA compliance, or compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, is the process of ensuring that a website is accessible to people with disabilities. The ADA is a federal law that prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities in areas of public life, including the internet.

ADA compliance for websites includes a set of guidelines and standards, such as the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), that outline specific technical and design requirements that a website must meet in order to be considered accessible. These guidelines cover areas such as providing alternative text for images, providing captions for videos, using semantic structure, providing keyboard navigation and other accessibility features.

Compliance with these guidelines helps ensure that people with disabilities, such as those who are blind or visually impaired, deaf or hard of hearing, or those with mobility impairments, can use and access the website as easily as possible. It is important to note that compliance is an ongoing process and websites need to be regularly updated to maintain compliance with the ADA standards.

Adaptive Design

In web design, adaptive refers to the ability of a website or web application to automatically adjust its layout and content based on the characteristics of the device it is being viewed on. This is similar to responsive design, which also aims to create a seamless and consistent user experience across different devices and screen sizes.

However, unlike responsive design, which uses flexible layouts and proportions to adjust to the available screen space, adaptive design uses a set of predetermined layout sizes and configurations to adjust to the device. This means that the website or application will have a specific layout and set of content for each of the predetermined device sizes and types.

Adaptive design is often used in situations where a website needs to support a large number of different devices and screen sizes, and where it is not practical to use responsive design techniques. It allows the website to provide a tailored user experience for each specific device, while still maintaining a consistent overall design and brand identity.

Address Bar

The address bar is normally a text box at the top of a browser. This box displays the address (url) of the website/page you are currently looking at. You can also copy/paste or type an address to be visited in the address bar. Many modern browsers now use the address bar for search functionality as well.

Ajax

AJAX (Asynchronous JavaScript And XML) is a large set of website development techniques using a group of web technologies on the client side to create web applications. AJAX allows web applications to send and retrieve data from a server asynchronously (in the background) without actually interfering with the behavior of the existing page.

AJAX is not a single technology but a group of technologies working together. AJAX is also not some new technology, or different programming language, just existing technologies working together in new ways.

Alt Text

Alt text, also known as “alternative text” or “alt attributes,” is a piece of HTML code that is used to describe the content of an image on a web page. Alt text is displayed in place of an image if the image is not available or cannot be displayed for some reason, such as if the user has turned off images in their web browser or is using a screen reader.

Alt text is important for several reasons:

  • It helps improve the accessibility of a website by providing a text-based description of images for users who are unable to see them, such as users with visual impairments who rely on screen readers.
  • It can help search engines understand the content of a web page by providing context for the images on the page. This can help improve the page’s ranking in search results.
  • It can provide a useful fallback in case an image does not load properly or is not displayed for any other reason.

To add alt text to an image in HTML, you can use the alt attribute within the img tag, like this:

<img src="/image.jpg" alt="A description of the image">

The value of the alt attribute should be a short, concise description of the image that accurately reflects its content. It should not be a verbose or detailed description, and it should not include any information that is already provided in the surrounding text.

Anchor Text

The anchor text, link text, or link title is a clickable hyperlink. The words surrounded by this anchor can determine the ranking that page will receive by the major search engines. Not all links have anchor text as it may be obvious where the specific link may lead though context. Usually the major search engines analyze anchor text from hyperlinks from web pages.

Back End

The back end of a website is the part that is hidden from regular website visitors. The back end normally includes the applications, information infrastructure, and the Content Management System controlling the front end content of the website.

Backlink

A backlink for a resource is a link from an external source or website (referrer) to the web resource (referent). A web resource may be a website, page, or web directory (among others).

A backlink is like a reference comparable to a citation. The quantity, relevance, and quality of backlinks for a website or page are among many factors that the major search engines evaluate in order to estimate just how important the page is.

Bandwidth

This refers to two separate entities… the amount of data (in total) you are allowed to have transferred through your web host during a given time period (usually within a month) before the site is charged with overage or the speed (rate) at which information can be transferred online through your ISP (Internet Service Provider).

Black Hat Crawling

In the context of search engine optimization, black hat crawling refers to the practice of using unethical or spammy techniques to try to improve a website’s search engine rankings. These techniques are called “black hat” because they go against the guidelines set by search engines, and they can result in penalties or other negative consequences for the website. Some examples of black hat crawling techniques include keyword stuffing, creating fake pages or links, and cloaking, which is the practice of showing different content to search engines than what users see. These techniques are generally considered to be unethical and can damage a website’s reputation, so it is best to avoid them and instead focus on using ethical, white hat SEO techniques to improve a website’s rankings.

Blog

Blogs (originally called weblogs) are usually websites published on the world wide web for informational purposes based on a specific niche or subject. Articles (or posts) are added to help educate the visitor on the subject at hand. Blogs are most often used for marketing purposes and have exploded throughout the world wide web since the mid-2000’s.

Bounce Rate

A bounce rate determines the certain percentage a single session on a page of your website has no interaction once it is viewed.

Bounce rates are used in internet marketing to track visitors actions and find ways to keep the visitor on the site and interacting with your website content.

Breadcrumb

Breadcrumbs are used for navigation throughout many websites (mostly used in blogs) that show the pages/subpages that appeared before the page the visitor is currently viewing.

Browser

Browsers are pieces of software that allow you to view web pages or websites visually, the way the web designer/developer intended. Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Internet Explorer are the most commonly used browsers at this time.

Each browser displays the coding for the website a little differently. Hence why it is important for a web designer/developer to test the design in all browsers for user experience.

Call to Action (CTA)

A call to action (CTA) is a message or button that prompts a user to take a specific action, such as making a purchase, signing up for a newsletter, or filling out a form. CTAs are commonly used in marketing and advertising to encourage users to take a desired action, such as visiting a website or making a purchase.

CTAs can be placed anywhere on a website or in an advertisement and can be in the form of a button, a banner, a link, or text. They are typically designed to be attention-grabbing and to stand out from the rest of the content on the page.

Effective CTAs typically include clear and concise language that tells the user exactly what action they should take, such as “Sign up now” or “Buy now.” They should also be prominently placed and easy for the user to find.

Here are a few tips for creating effective CTAs:

  • Make it clear and concise: Use simple and straightforward language that clearly communicates the action you want the user to take.
  • Use strong and actionable verbs: Use verbs that inspire action, such as “sign up,” “download,” or “learn more.”
  • Use a contrasting color: Use a color that stands out from the rest of the design to draw the user’s attention.
  • Make it prominent: Place the CTA in a location where it will be easy for the user to find and click.
  • Test different versions: Experiment with different variations of your CTA to see which one performs the best.

CMS (Content Management System)

Content management systems are a backend tool for managing a websites content that will then be displayed on the client side area once loaded.

The CMS (content management system) stores all the information in a database that is connected to the hosting server.

There are many content management systems to choose from with their own weaknesses and strengths. Joomla!, WordPress, Mambo, and Drupal are some of the main CMS that are available today.

Conversion

In web design, conversion refers to the process of getting a website visitor to take a specific desired action, such as making a purchase, signing up for a newsletter, or filling out a form. The goal of conversion rate optimization (CRO) is to increase the percentage of visitors that convert into customers or leads. This is typically achieved through testing and improving various elements of the website, such as the layout, headlines, calls to action, and forms.

Cookie

In web terms, a cookie is a small text file that is stored on a user’s computer or mobile device by a website. Cookies are used to store information about the user’s activities and preferences on the website, and can be used to personalize the user’s experience on the site. For example, a cookie might be used to store a user’s login information, so that they don’t have to enter it each time they visit the site. Cookies can also be used to track a user’s activities on the website, which can be used for analytics or advertising purposes. Most modern websites use cookies to improve the user experience and provide personalized content, but users can choose to disable or delete cookies if they wish.

CSS (Cascading Style Sheets)

Cascading Style Sheets is a language used for the presentation of a website through programming markup. CSS is most often used to help visually style websites and web pages and user interfaces written in HTML or XHTML. The language can also be applied to XML documents and is applicable to rendering speech or on other media. Along with HTML and Javascript, Cascading Style Sheets is a technology used to help with the visual engagement of websites, user interfaces for applications, and user interfaces for mobile applications.

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DHTML

Dynamic HTML, or HTML is a collection of technologies used freely together to create animated websites. Using a combination of a static markup language, a client-side scripting language (like Javascript), a presentation definition language, and the DOM (Document Object Module). DHTM was introduced by Microsoft with the release of IE (Internet Explorer) in 1997.

Domain

A domain is a name that identifies a website or a group of websites on the internet. It is used to help users find and access a particular website, and it typically consists of two parts: a top-level domain (TLD) and a second-level domain (SLD). The TLD is the part of the domain that comes after the dot (e.g., .com, .org, .net), and it indicates the type of organization or entity that owns the website. The SLD is the part of the domain that comes before the dot and is typically used to identify the specific organization or website. For example, in the domain “assistant.google.com,” “google” is the SLD and “.com” is the TLD.

Domain Name Registration

Domain name registration is the process of registering a domain name, which is the unique identifier for a website or web-based application. A domain name is typically a series of letters and numbers that is easy for users to remember, and that corresponds to the IP address of the website’s server. For example, the domain name “google.com” corresponds to the IP address “172.217.22.78”. When a user types a domain name into their web browser, the browser sends a request to a domain name server, which then translates the domain name into the corresponding IP address and connects the user to the website’s server. Domain name registration is typically done through a domain name registrar, which is a company that specializes in registering and managing domain names. Domain names are an essential part of the web, and allow users to easily find and access websites and web-based applications.

Drag and Drop

Drag and drop is a method of interacting with a computer or mobile device that allows you to move or rearrange items on the screen by dragging them with your finger or a pointing device, such as a mouse. To use drag and drop, you typically select an item by clicking or tapping on it, and then you hold down the mouse button (or your finger on a touch screen) and move the item to a new location. You can drop the item by releasing the mouse button (or lifting your finger off the screen).

Drag and drop is a convenient way to move or copy items within an application or between different applications. It is often used in graphical user interfaces (GUIs) to make it easier for users to rearrange items or transfer data from one place to another. For example, you can use drag and drop to move a file from a folder on your computer to a different location, or to rearrange icons on your desktop. Drag and drop is also commonly used in web applications and mobile apps, where it can be used to rearrange items within a list or to transfer data between different screens or views.

Drop-down Menu

A drop-down menu is a list of options that appears when a user clicks on a button or interacts with a particular element on a website or application. Drop-down menus are typically used to provide a list of options that can be selected by the user, such as a list of products, categories, or pages on a website.

Drop-down menus are commonly implemented using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. In HTML, a drop-down menu is created using a select element and a series of option elements within it. Each option element represents an item in the list, and the select element allows the user to choose one of the options. Here’s an example of how a drop-down menu might be implemented in HTML:

<select>
  <option value="item1">Item 1</option>
  <option value="item2">Item 2</option>
  <option value="item3">Item 3</option>
</select>

In CSS, the appearance of the drop-down menu can be customized using style rules. For example, you can change the font, color, size, and other visual properties of the menu and its options.

In JavaScript, you can use event handlers to add interactivity to the drop-down menu. For example, you can use a JavaScript function to handle the event when the user selects an option from the menu and perform some action based on that selection.

Drop-down menus are a useful and common way to present a list of options to users on the web. They can help organize and present large amounts of information in a clear and concise manner, making it easier for users to find what they are looking for.

E-commerce

E-commerce (Electronic Commerce) is a way of selling online with transactions through banking institutions. It draws on technologies such as electronic funds transfer, mobile commerce, internet marketing, EDI (Electronic Data Interchange), as well as (and not limited to) automated data collection systems. Typical transactions made online include a plethora of items including but not limited to: digital content (like music and online books), clothing, and online services.

Email Client

An email client, also known as a mail client, is a software program that allows users to send and receive email messages. An email client connects to a mail server, which is a computer or network of computers that are specifically configured to send, receive, and store email messages. The email client retrieves messages from the server, and allows the user to read, compose, and manage their email. Email clients typically provide a range of features and capabilities, such as the ability to organize messages into folders, to search for messages, to manage multiple email accounts, and to securely encrypt and sign messages. Some examples of popular email clients include Microsoft Outlook, Apple Mail, and Mozilla Thunderbird. Email clients are an essential tool for many people, and are used to communicate with others, to access information, and to manage their personal and professional lives.

Favicon

A Favicon (short for favorite Icon), is a file containing one or more small icons associated with a website or web page. The designer creates such an icon to upload to a website by several means. The graphical browsers (like Mozilla Firefox) will make display the icon (or image) at the top of the browser tab next to the website it came from. This is a great way to help market your brand.

File Transfer Protocol (FTP)

FTP stands for “File Transfer Protocol,” and it is a standard network protocol that is used to transfer files between computers on a network. FTP is a client-server protocol, which means that it allows a user’s FTP client software to connect to a remote server and transfer files between the client and the server. FTP is commonly used to transfer files to and from web servers, and is an essential tool for web developers and other users who need to upload and download files to a web server. FTP provides a number of features and capabilities, such as the ability to transfer multiple files simultaneously, to resume interrupted transfers, and to securely transfer sensitive data. It is a reliable and efficient way to transfer files over the internet.

Footer

A footer is a section at the bottom of a web page that typically contains information such as copyright information, contact details, and links to important pages or resources. Footers are usually placed at the very bottom of a web page and are usually displayed on all pages of a website.

Footers are a useful way to provide additional information and navigation options to users without cluttering the main content area of the page. They can also help establish credibility and build trust with users by providing information about the website’s ownership and contact details.

Here are a few common elements that are often found in website footers:

  • Copyright information: This is typically a statement indicating that the content on the website is copyrighted and may not be used without permission.
  • Contact information: This may include the website’s physical address, phone number, and email address.
  • Social media links: Many websites include links to their social media profiles in the footer to make it easy for users to follow them.
  • Links to important pages: The footer is often a good place to include links to important pages on the website, such as the terms of service, privacy policy, and frequently asked questions.
  • Site map: Some websites include a site map in the footer to help users find their way around the site.

Overall, the purpose of a footer is to provide additional information and navigation options to users while maintaining a clean and uncluttered look for the main content area of the page.

Front End

The front end of a website refers to the part of the website that users interact with directly. It is the visual and functional part of the website that users see and interact with in their web browser, and it is built using a combination of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. The front end of a website is responsible for rendering the website’s content and design, and for handling user interactions such as clicking on buttons and links. The front end of a website is often contrasted with the back end, which refers to the behind-the-scenes part of the website that handles server-side tasks such as managing user data and processing requests from the front end.

FTP Client

An FTP client is a software program that allows users to connect to a remote server and transfer files using the File Transfer Protocol (FTP). FTP is a commonly used protocol for transferring files over the internet, and is often used to upload and download files from web servers. FTP clients provide a user-friendly interface that makes it easy to connect to a server, navigate its directories and files, and transfer files between the server and a local computer or device. FTP clients typically support a range of features, such as the ability to resume interrupted transfers, to transfer multiple files simultaneously, and to manage and organize files on the server. They are an essential tool for web developers and other users who need to transfer files to and from a web server.

Google Analytics

Google Analytics is a free web analytics service offered by Google that tracks and reports website traffic. It is used by millions of websites around the world to understand their audience, measure the effectiveness of marketing campaigns, and improve the overall user experience.

With Google Analytics, you can track a wide range of metrics, including:

  • Pageviews: The number of times a page on your website has been viewed.
  • Unique visitors: The number of individual users who have visited your website.
  • Traffic sources: The origin of your website’s traffic, such as search engines, social media, referral sites, or direct visits.
  • Location: The geographical location of your website’s visitors.
  • Device: The type of device used to access your website, such as desktop, mobile, or tablet.
  • Behavior: How users interact with your website, including the pages they visit, the length of their visit, and the actions they take.

Google Analytics also provides a range of advanced features, such as conversion tracking, goal setting, and custom reporting, that can help you understand and optimize your website’s performance.

To use Google Analytics, you need to sign up for a free account and add a tracking code to your website. This code allows Google Analytics to collect data from your website and display it in your account dashboard. You can then use this data to analyze your website’s traffic and performance, and make informed decisions about how to improve it.

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Google Link Scheme

Google link schemes are practices that violate Google’s guidelines for building backlinks to a website. A backlink is a link from an external website that points to a page on your website. These links are important for search engine optimization (SEO) because they help to improve a website’s ranking on search engine results pages (SERPs) and can also drive traffic to the site.

Google link schemes are tactics that are specifically designed to manipulate a website’s search engine rankings by building unnatural or spammy backlinks. This can include tactics such as buying links, participating in link schemes, or using automated link-building tools.

Google’s guidelines explicitly state that link schemes are not allowed, and using them can result in penalties or even a complete ban from Google’s search results. As a result, it is important to avoid link schemes and to focus on building high-quality, natural backlinks through legitimate and ethical means.

GUI (Graphical User Interface)

The graphical user interface is a type of interface that allows users to interact with devices through graphical icons and visual indicators. GUI’s were introduced because of the steep learning curve of command line interfaces (like DOS) which would require commands typed on a computer keyboard.

Graphical User Interfaces are used on many devices and programs including websites, media players, gaming devices, smartphones, and touchscreen displays.

Hamburger Menu

A hamburger menu is a graphical user interface (GUI) element that consists of three horizontal lines (displayed as a “hamburger”) that are typically used to signify a menu. It is called a “hamburger” menu because the three lines resemble the layers of a hamburger bun.

Hamburger menus are commonly used in responsive web design as a way to consolidate menu items into a drop-down menu that can be displayed when the screen width is too narrow to display all of the menu items horizontally. This helps to save space and reduce clutter on smaller screens, such as on mobile devices.

Hamburger menus are typically placed in a prominent location, such as the top left or top right corner of the screen, and are often triggered by clicking on the hamburger icon. When clicked, the hamburger menu expands to display a list of links or menu items that can be clicked to navigate to other pages or sections of the website.

Hamburger menus are a common and convenient way to provide navigation options to users on smaller screens, but they can also have some drawbacks. Some users may not be familiar with the hamburger icon and may not realize that it is a menu, which can lead to a poor user experience. In addition, hamburger menus can hide important navigation links and make it more difficult for users to find what they are looking for. As a result, it is important to consider the specific needs of your users and to choose an appropriate navigation design that meets their needs.

Header

A header is a section at the top of a web page that typically contains information such as the website’s logo, main navigation menu, and search bar. Headers are usually placed at the very top of a web page and are usually displayed on all pages of a website.

Headers serve several important purposes:

  • They provide a consistent branding and navigation experience for users across the website.
  • They help users understand the purpose and content of the website by providing a clear and concise message.
  • They make it easy for users to find what they are looking for by providing a clear and organized navigation structure.

Headers are usually designed to be attention-grabbing and to stand out from the rest of the content on the page. They often use colors, fonts, and other design elements that are consistent with the website’s overall branding and style.

Here are a few common elements that are often found in website headers:

  • Logo: The website’s logo is typically placed in the top left or top center of the header to help users identify the website and to establish a consistent brand identity.
  • Navigation menu: The main navigation menu is typically placed in the top center or top right of the header and provides links to the main sections and pages of the website.
  • Search bar: A search bar is often included in the header to allow users to search for specific content on the website.
  • Social media links: Some headers include links to the website’s social media profiles to make it easy for users to follow them.

The purpose of a header is to provide a consistent branding and navigation experience for users and to make it easy for them to find what they are looking for on the website.

Heading

In web design, a heading is a text element used to indicate the main topic or title of a section of content on a webpage. Headings are typically formatted in a larger and bolder font than the rest of the text on the page, and are often used to create a hierarchical structure for the content.

There are six levels of headings, called H1 to H6, with H1 being the highest level and most important heading, and H6 being the lowest level. H1 is usually used as the main title or heading of a webpage, while H2 and H3 are used for subheadings and H4-H6 are used to indicate sections or sub-sections within the content.

Proper use of headings helps to improve the accessibility and search engine optimization of a website, as well as the overall organization and readability of the content.

Hero Image

A hero image is a large, attention-grabbing image that is typically used as a banner or header image on a website. Hero images are typically placed at the top of a web page and are designed to grab the user’s attention and set the tone for the rest of the content on the page.

Hero images are often used to showcase products, services, or key messages and are typically chosen for their visual appeal and ability to convey a strong emotion or message. They are often accompanied by a tagline or headline that provides additional context or a call to action.

Here are a few tips for using hero images effectively:

  • Use high-quality images: Hero images should be visually appealing and of high quality to make a strong first impression.
  • Choose images that convey a strong emotion or message: Hero images should be chosen for their ability to convey a particular emotion or message that aligns with the overall purpose of the website.
  • Use a clear and concise tagline or headline: A clear and concise tagline or headline can help to provide context and a call to action for the hero image.
  • Optimize the image for mobile devices: With more and more users accessing websites on mobile devices, it’s important to ensure that hero images look great on all screen sizes.

Overall, hero images are a powerful tool for grabbing the user’s attention and setting the tone for the rest of the content on a website. When used effectively, they can help to create a strong first impression and engage the user’s interest.

Home Page

A home page is the main page of a website. It is typically the first page that a user sees when they visit a website, and it is often used to provide an overview of the website’s content and purpose.

Home pages are typically designed to be eye-catching and engaging, and they often include elements such as a hero image, a tagline or headline, and a navigation menu. The purpose of the home page is to provide a clear and concise overview of the website’s content and to encourage the user to explore further.

Here are a few common elements that are often found on home pages:

  • Hero image: A large, attention-grabbing image that is designed to grab the user’s attention and set the tone for the rest of the content on the page.
  • Tagline or headline: A short phrase or sentence that provides context or a call to action for the hero image.
  • Navigation menu: A menu that provides links to the main sections and pages of the website.
  • Featured content: A selection of the website’s most popular or important content, such as articles, products, or services.
  • Footer: A section at the bottom of the page that typically contains information such as copyright information, contact details, and links to important pages or resources.

Overall, the purpose of a home page is to provide a clear and concise overview of the website’s content and to encourage the user to explore further. When designed effectively, it can help to create a strong first impression and engage the user’s interest.

Hosting (Web Hosting)

Web hosting is a service that allows organizations and individuals to post a website or web page on the internet. A web host, or hosting provider, is a business that provides the technologies and services needed for the website or web page to be viewed on the internet. This includes the servers, infrastructure, and technical support that are needed to run and maintain a website. When a user wants to view a website, they type the website’s domain name (e.g., “example.com”) into their web browser, which sends a request to the web host’s server. The server then retrieves the website’s files and resources, and sends them back to the user’s browser, allowing them to view and interact with the website. Web hosting is an essential part of the World Wide Web, and allows individuals and organizations to share their content and resources with the world.

HTML (Hyper Text Markup Language)

HTML (Hyper Text Markup Language) is a standard language for website design and applications. With CSS (Cascading Style Sheets) and other programming languages like Javascript, it forms a cornerstone for the World Wide Web. Modern web browsers receive HTML documents from a web server or local storage and render them into web pages for the visitor to view.

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IE (Internet Explorer)

Internet Explorer (IE) is a web browser developed by Microsoft. It was first released in 1995, and was one of the first major web browsers to be introduced. Over the years, it has undergone many changes and updates, and is currently in its 11th version. Internet Explorer is available for Windows operating systems, and is bundled with Windows by default. It is a popular web browser, and is known for its compatibility with many web standards and technologies. However, it has also been criticized for its lack of support for newer web technologies, and for its security vulnerabilities. In recent years, other web browsers, such as Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox, have become more popular, and Internet Explorer has lost market share.

Image Optimization

Image optimization is the practice of reducing the file size of an image without significantly decreasing its quality. This is important because large image files can take longer to load, which can slow down a website and negatively impact the user experience. By optimizing images, a website can load faster and provide a better experience for users.

There are several ways to optimize images, including using a tool to compress the image files, using the appropriate image file format (such as JPEG or PNG), and properly sizing images so that they are not scaled up or down by the browser. Additionally, using descriptive, keyword-rich file names for images and using alt text to describe the image can also help with image optimization and improve the website’s search engine optimization.

Information Architecture (IA)

Information architecture (IA) is the process of organizing, structuring, and labeling the content on a website or application in a way that makes it easy for users to find and understand. It involves creating a logical and clear hierarchy for the content, using descriptive and clear labels for each piece of content, and organizing the content in a way that is intuitive and easy to navigate.

The goal of IA is to create a user-friendly experience for users by making it easy for them to find the information they need and to understand the relationships between different pieces of content. IA is an important aspect of user experience (UX) design, as it helps to ensure that users can find the content they are looking for and understand how it fits into the overall context of the website or application.

There are several key elements that make up a good IA:

  • Clear hierarchy: The content should be organized into a clear hierarchy, with the most important content at the top and more specific or detailed content lower down.
  • Descriptive labels: Each piece of content should be labeled with a clear and descriptive title that accurately reflects its content.
  • Intuitive navigation: The navigation structure should be intuitive and easy to use, with links to the main sections and pages of the website clearly labeled and easy to find.
  • Search functionality: A search bar should be provided to allow users to search for specific content on the website.

Overall, IA is an important aspect of creating a user-friendly experience for users and is essential for helping users find and understand the content on a website or application.

Inline Style

Inline Styles are a snippet of CSS code added to the actual HTML document. The styles only affect the page (or tag) it is associated with and does not affect other styles site wide from an actual style sheet.

Interaction Design (IXD)

Interaction design (IXD) is the process of designing the interactions between users and products or systems. It involves creating a seamless and intuitive user experience by designing the flow of interactions between the user and the product or system, as well as the visual and functional elements that enable those interactions.

IXD is an important aspect of user experience (UX) design, as it helps to ensure that users can effectively and efficiently accomplish their goals using a product or system. IXD involves designing the entire process of user interaction with a product or system, from the initial encounter with the product to the final outcome.

Here are a few key elements of IXD:

  • User flows: IXD involves designing the flow of interactions between the user and the product or system, including the steps the user takes and the actions they perform.
  • Visual and functional elements: IXD involves designing the visual and functional elements that enable user interactions, such as buttons, menus, and forms.
  • Usability: IXD involves designing interactions that are intuitive and easy for users to understand and use.
  • Feedback: IXD involves designing mechanisms that provide feedback to the user, such as error messages or confirmation messages, to help guide their interactions with the product or system.

Overall, IXD is an important aspect of creating a seamless and intuitive user experience for users and is essential for helping users effectively and efficiently accomplish their goals using a product or system.

Internal Linking

Internal linking is the practice of linking to other pages on the same website from within the website’s content. This is typically done to help users navigate the website and find related content, and it can also be used to help search engines discover and index the website’s pages. Internal linking can be done by adding hyperlinks to text or images within the website’s content, or by using a navigation menu or other type of linking structure.

Internet

The internet is a global network of interconnected computers, servers, and other devices that share data and resources. It is a vast and complex system that allows people from all over the world to access and share information, ideas, and resources. The internet is made up of millions of interconnected networks, and uses a variety of technologies and protocols to transmit data between devices. It allows users to access a wide range of services and resources, such as email, social media, online shopping, and streaming media. The internet has become an essential part of modern life, and has revolutionized the way people communicate, work, and access information.

IP Address

An IP address is a numerical label assigned to each device connected to a computer network that uses the Internet Protocol for communication. An IP address serves two main functions: it identifies the host or network interface, and it provides the location of the host in the network. In other words, it is a unique identifier for a device on a network, and it allows data to be routed from one device to another. An IP address is typically written as a series of four numbers separated by dots, such as “192.168.1.1”. Each device on a network, including computers, routers, and servers, has its own unique IP address. IP addresses are an essential part of the internet, as they enable devices to communicate with each other and access resources on the network.

Javascript

JavaScript is a programming language that is commonly used to add interactivity and dynamic features to websites. It is a client-side scripting language, which means that it is executed by the user’s web browser, rather than on the server. This allows JavaScript to provide a rich and responsive user experience, as it can manipulate and update the content of a web page in real-time, without the need to refresh the page. JavaScript is used to create a wide range of effects and functionality on websites, such as animations, form validation, and interactive maps. It is an essential part of many modern websites, and is often used in conjunction with other technologies, such as HTML and CSS.

Javascript SEO

JavaScript SEO is the practice of optimizing a website that uses JavaScript for search engines to be able to crawl and index the content on the website. Since search engines have traditionally had difficulty with crawling and indexing content that is generated by JavaScript, implementing JavaScript SEO involves taking steps to ensure that the content on the website is accessible and can be easily discovered by search engines. This can involve implementing server-side rendering, using HTML snapshots, and providing search engines with detailed instructions on how to crawl and index the website’s content. By implementing JavaScript SEO, a website can improve its visibility and ranking in search engine results pages.

JSON (JavaScript Object Notation)

JSON is a text-based interchange format. It was designed for transmitting data between web servers and web applications.

It is often as an alternative to XML. In most cases the JSON representation of an object is more compact than the XML representation.

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Keyword Cannibalization

Keyword cannibalization is when multiple pages on a website are competing for the same keyword or search query. This can cause confusion for search engines, as they are not sure which page to rank for the keyword in question. As a result, the visibility of the website as a whole can be reduced, as search engines may not rank any of the pages for the targeted keyword. This can lead to a decrease in organic traffic and can even harm the overall credibility of the website in the eyes of search engines.

Keyword Mapping

Keyword mapping is the process of organizing and categorizing keywords and phrases based on their relevance to a particular business, product, or service. This is done by creating a keyword map, which is a visual representation of how different keywords and phrases are related to each other. A keyword map can help businesses to see how different keywords and phrases relate to each other, and can provide valuable insights into how people search for information online. By creating a keyword map, businesses can better understand the needs and interests of their target audience, and can create content that is more likely to be found and shared by the people who are most likely to be interested in it.

Keyword Research

Keyword research is the process of identifying and selecting words and phrases that are relevant to a particular business, product, or service, with the goal of optimizing a website’s content in order to rank well in search engine results. This is important because the words and phrases that people use when searching for information online can provide valuable insights into what they are looking for, and can help businesses to create content that is more likely to be found and used by potential customers. By doing keyword research, businesses can better understand the needs and interests of their target audience, and can create content that is more likely to be found and shared by the people who are most likely to be interested in it.

Keyword Stuffing

Keyword stuffing is the practice of using an excessive number of keywords or phrases in the content of a website, in an attempt to manipulate the site’s ranking in search engine results. This is considered to be a spammy practice, and can actually have the opposite effect of what is intended, causing a website to be penalized or even banned from search engine results. Keyword stuffing can be easily detected by search engines, and can have a negative impact on a website’s reputation and credibility. It is important to use keywords and phrases naturally and in moderation in order to avoid keyword stuffing and to ensure that a website’s content is valuable and relevant to its target audience.

Keywords

Keywords are phrases that describe content. They can be used through metadata to describe data records, images, text documents, and Web pages. A user can tag pictures or text files with keywords that are relevant to the content on the page. By tagging content on your website you can help with search engine placement for those particular keywords.

KPI

KPI is an acronym that stands for Key Performance Indicator. A key performance indicator is a measurable value that indicates how well an organization is achieving its key objectives and goals. KPIs are used to track and monitor the performance of a business, and to identify areas where improvements can be made.

KPIs are specific to each business and can vary depending on the industry and the goals of the organization. Some common examples of KPIs include revenue, profit, customer satisfaction, website traffic, and conversion rate. KPIs are typically tracked over time in order to identify trends and patterns in a business’s performance.

By using KPIs to track and monitor the performance of a business, organizations can gain valuable insights into their operations and can make data-driven decisions to improve their performance and achieve their goals.

LAMP

LAMP is a model of web service stacks, named as an acronym of the names of the four open source components it connects: Linux (the operating system), Apache (HTTP Server), MYSQL (a relational database management system), and PHP (the programming language). The LAMP components are interchangeable and not limited to the original selection. LAMP is suitable for creating and programming dynamic websites and web applications.

Landing Page

A landing page is a standalone web page, created specifically for the purpose of a marketing or advertising campaign. It is designed to direct the visitor to take a specific action, such as making a purchase or filling out a form for more information.

Landing pages are typically linked to from a social media post, email campaign, or online advertisement, and are designed to provide a clear and focused call to action for the visitor. They often have a specific goal, such as selling a product or collecting email addresses for a newsletter, and are optimized to convert visitors into leads or customers.

Effective landing pages are often focused on a single, specific objective and include compelling headlines, clear calls to action, and strong, relevant content that supports the goal of the page. They may also include forms for capturing contact information or other data, and may have social media or email sharing buttons to encourage visitors to share the page with their friends and colleagues.

Lazy Loading

In web design, lazy loading is a technique used to improve the performance of a website by loading resources, such as images and videos, only when they are needed by the user.

Normally, when a website loads, all of the images, videos, and other resources are loaded at the same time, which can cause the website to be slow to load and use more bandwidth. With lazy loading, these resources are only loaded as the user scrolls down the page and they come into view. This helps to reduce the initial load time of the website, and also reduces the amount of data that needs to be loaded, which can be particularly beneficial for users with slow internet connections.

Lazy loading can be implemented in different ways, such as by using JavaScript to detect when images come into view and then loading them, or by using browser-native features such as the Intersection Observer API.

It’s important to note that lazy loading can have some limitations, such as when the images are used as a part of a design of the site or when they are used as a critical part of the user experience, in those cases the images should be loaded immediately.

Lead Magnet

A lead magnet is a free and valuable resource that is offered to potential customers in exchange for their contact information, such as their name and email address. Lead magnets are often used in digital marketing and sales to attract potential customers and to build a list of leads that can be contacted and nurtured in the future.

Lead magnets can take many different forms, depending on the needs and goals of the business. Some common examples of lead magnets include ebooks, whitepapers, case studies, webinars, discount codes, and free trials. The goal of a lead magnet is to provide value to the potential customer and to entice them to share their contact information with the business.

Lead magnets can be an effective way to generate leads and to build relationships with potential customers. By offering a valuable and useful resource in exchange for their contact information, businesses can attract potential customers and begin the process of nurturing those leads into paying customers.

Link (Hyperlink)

A link, also known as a hyperlink, is an element on a web page that allows users to click or tap on it to navigate to another page or resource. Links are typically highlighted in some way, such as by being underlined or colored differently from the surrounding text. When a user clicks on a link, they are taken to the page or resource that the link is pointing to. This can be another page on the same website, a page on a different website, an image, a video, or any other type of web-based content. Links are an essential part of the World Wide Web, and allow users to easily navigate between different pages and resources on the internet.

Mail Server

A mail server is a computer or network of computers that are specifically configured to send, receive, and store electronic mail (email) messages. Mail servers are an essential part of the internet, and are responsible for routing and delivering email messages between different devices and systems. When an email is sent, it is first sent to the mail server for the sender’s domain (e.g., “gmail.com” or “example.com”), which then sends it to the recipient’s mail server. The recipient’s mail server then delivers the email to the recipient’s mailbox, where it can be accessed and read. Mail servers can also provide additional services, such as spam and virus filtering, and can be accessed using email clients, such as Microsoft Outlook or Apple Mail.

Meta Tag

In the context of the web, a meta tag is an HTML tag that is used to provide metadata (i.e., information about the content) for a web page. Meta tags are placed in the head section of the HTML code for a web page, and are typically not visible to users when they view the page. However, they can provide valuable information to search engines and other software that access the page. Meta tags can include information such as the page’s title, description, keywords, and other metadata. This information can be used by search engines to understand the content of the page and to improve its visibility in search results. Meta tags can also be used by web browsers and other software to provide additional context and information about the page.

Metadata

Metadata is information that provides more detailed information about other data throughout the website. Three distinct types of metadata exist: descriptive metadata, structural metadata, and administrative metadata.

Mobile Optimization

Mobile optimization refers to the process of making a website or web application easy to use and navigate on mobile devices. This can include a variety of different tactics and techniques, such as optimizing the website’s design and layout for small screens, improving the website’s loading speed on mobile networks, and ensuring that the website’s content is easy to read and navigate on a mobile device.

Mobile optimization is important because more and more people are using their smartphones and other mobile devices to access the internet. In order to provide a good user experience to these mobile users, it is essential for websites to be optimized for mobile devices. This means that they should be easy to use and navigate on a small screen, and should load quickly on mobile networks.

By optimizing a website for mobile devices, businesses can improve their user experience, drive more traffic to their website, and potentially improve their search engine rankings. This can help to increase the overall success and visibility of the website.

Mobile SEO

Mobile SEO is the process of optimizing a website for mobile devices in order to improve its ranking on search engine results pages (SERPs) and make it more user-friendly for mobile users. This involves a number of different tactics and techniques, including optimizing the website’s content and design for mobile devices, improving the website’s loading speed on mobile devices, and ensuring that the website is easy to navigate on mobile devices.

Mobile SEO is important because more and more people are using their smartphones and other mobile devices to access the internet. In order to rank well on search engines and provide a good user experience to mobile users, it is essential for websites to be mobile-friendly. This means that they should be easy to read and navigate on a small screen, and should load quickly on mobile networks.

By optimizing a website for mobile devices, businesses can improve their search engine rankings, drive more traffic to their website, and provide a better experience for mobile users. This can help to increase the overall visibility and success of the website.

Mobile-First Indexing

Mobile-first indexing is a search engine optimization (SEO) strategy that involves prioritizing the mobile version of a website for indexing and ranking on search engine results pages (SERPs). This means that when a search engine crawls and indexes a website, it will primarily use the mobile version of the site to determine its ranking and relevance to search queries.

Mobile-first indexing is important because it reflects the increasing use of mobile devices to access the internet. As more and more people use their smartphones and other mobile devices to search for information online, it has become increasingly important for websites to be mobile-friendly in order to rank well on search engines.

By prioritizing the mobile version of a website for indexing and ranking, search engines can provide a better user experience to mobile users and ensure that they are able to find the most relevant and useful information when they search on a mobile device. This can help to improve the overall visibility and ranking of a website on search engine results pages.

Mockup

In web design, a mockup is a visual representation of a website or application that is used to communicate the design and layout of the user interface (UI). Mockups are typically created using tools such as Photoshop or Sketch and are used to present the overall look and feel of a website or application, as well as to test different design concepts and layouts.

Mockups are typically created at an early stage in the design process and are used to get feedback and approval from stakeholders before proceeding with the development of the final product. They are a useful tool for communicating design ideas and for gathering feedback from users and other stakeholders.

Mockups are typically high-level and do not include functional elements such as buttons or forms. They are used to focus on the overall layout and design of the user interface, rather than on the functional details of the website or application.

Mockups can be used in a variety of contexts, including website design, mobile app design, and software interface design. They are an important tool for designers and developers as they allow them to quickly and easily test different design concepts and layouts and to gather feedback from users and stakeholders.

Navigation

Web navigation refers to the navigating of a network of resources throughout the World Wide Web. The navigation is organized as hypertext or hypermedia. This is then displayed on what’s known as a web browser.

Negative SEO

Negative SEO is a type of online attack that involves attempting to sabotage a competitor’s website by using unethical and potentially illegal tactics. This can include tactics such as building spammy links to the competitor’s website, hacking the website to inject malicious content, or even copying the entire website and publishing it on another domain in an attempt to duplicate the competitor’s content and steal their search engine rankings.

Negative SEO is generally considered to be a highly unethical practice, as it can cause significant harm to a competitor’s website and business. It is also against the terms of service of most search engines, and can result in penalties or even a complete ban from the search engine’s index.

As a result, it is generally not recommended to engage in negative SEO tactics, and businesses are advised to focus on building their own websites and improving their own search engine rankings through legitimate and ethical means.

Online Directory

An online directory is a website or web-based application that provides a searchable list of businesses, organizations, or individuals. Online directories often provide detailed information about the listed entities, such as their contact information, location, services offered, and other details. Online directories can be specialized, focusing on a particular industry or type of business, or they can be more general, covering a wide range of businesses and categories. Online directories can be an important resource for users who are looking for information about a specific business or type of service. They can provide valuable information and exposure for businesses, and can help to increase their visibility and reach on the internet.

Open Source

Open source refers to source code made available to the general public. Open source programs are generally free or very low cost and are developed by teams of people, sometimes comprised mostly of volunteers.

The philosophy of open source is to promote universal access via a free license. Open source gave hold with the rise of the internet.

One of the founding fathers of this amazing system was Richard Stallman, one of the most influential people to teach the philosophy behind the open source society.

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Operating System

An operating system (OS) is a collection of software that manages the hardware and software resources of a computer. It is the underlying software that allows a computer to run applications and programs, and provides a platform for running other software. The operating system provides a consistent interface and set of features for users and developers, and is responsible for managing and coordinating the various components of the computer, such as the processor, memory, storage, and input/output devices. Some examples of popular operating systems include Microsoft Windows, Apple macOS, and Linux. Operating systems are an essential part of modern computing, and are typically installed on a computer when it is manufactured or purchased.

Outreach for Link Building

Outreach for link building is the process of reaching out to other websites and bloggers in order to obtain backlinks to your own website. Backlinks, also known as inbound links, are links from external websites that point to pages on your website. These links are important because they help to improve your website’s search engine rankings and can also drive traffic to your site.

The process of outreach for link building typically involves identifying websites and bloggers in your industry or niche who are likely to be interested in linking to your website, and then contacting them directly to request a link. This can be done through a variety of methods, including email, social media, or even through a direct message on the website itself.

Outreach for link building is an important part of search engine optimization (SEO) and can help to improve the visibility and ranking of your website in search engine results pages (SERPs). It is typically seen as a long-term strategy, as it can take time to build relationships with other websites and bloggers and to earn high-quality backlinks.

Page Speed

In web design, page speed refers to the amount of time it takes for a webpage to load and be fully displayed in a web browser. Page speed is an important factor in the user experience and search engine optimization (SEO) of a website, as users tend to have a low tolerance for slow-loading pages and search engines also consider page speed as a ranking factor.

There are various tools available to measure page speed, such as Google PageSpeed Insights and WebPageTest, which provide a detailed analysis of the performance of a webpage, including load time, the size of the resources, and the number of requests made by the page. These tools also provide suggestions for improving the page speed, such as optimizing images, minifying code, and reducing the number of requests made by the page.

Improving page speed can be achieved by various techniques such as Compressing images and videos, Minifying and concatenating CSS, JS and HTML files, Using Content Delivery Networks (CDNs), and Properly structuring the code, among others.

It is important to note that page speed is not just about the initial load time of the page, but also about the perceived performance, which is how fast the page appears to the user, and how quickly it can respond to user interactions.

Page Title

A page title is a text element that appears in the browser’s title bar or tab, and is used to identify the contents of a web page. Page titles are typically displayed at the top of the browser window and are also used by search engines to understand the content of a web page and to determine its relevance to a particular search query.

In HTML, the page title is specified using the title element, which is placed in the head of the document. Here’s an example of how to specify a page title in HTML:

<head>
  <title>My Website | Home</title>
</head>

The page title is an important element of web design and SEO (search engine optimization) as it helps to identify the contents of a web page to both users and search engines. It is important to choose a clear and descriptive page title that accurately reflects the content of the page and that is easy for users and search engines to understand.

Page titles should be concise and should ideally be no more than 70 characters in length, as longer titles may be truncated by search engines. They should also be unique to each page on the website to avoid confusion and to help search engines understand the contents of each page.

Pay Per Click (PPC)

Pay-per-click (PPC) is a type of online advertising model in which advertisers pay a fee each time one of their ads is clicked. This is a popular way for advertisers to reach potential customers and drive traffic to their websites, as it allows them to only pay for actual clicks on their ads, rather than for the number of times their ads are shown. PPC advertising is typically managed through advertising platforms, such as Google Ads, which allow advertisers to create and manage their ads, set a budget, and track their performance. Advertisers can use PPC to target specific audiences and keywords, and to control the visibility and placement of their ads. PPC can be an effective way to drive targeted traffic to a website, and can be a useful tool for online marketers.

Payment Gateway

A payment gateway is an e-commerce service that enables merchants to accept credit card and other forms of electronic payment for their products and services. A payment gateway acts as an intermediary between a payment provider (such as a credit card company) and a merchant’s website, securely handling the transaction and passing the payment information from the customer to the merchant and vice versa. Payment gateways are an essential part of the online payment process, as they provide the security and functionality necessary to accept and process electronic payments.

PHP

PHP stands for “PHP: Hypertext Preprocessor.” It is a popular server-side scripting language that is used to develop web applications and websites. PHP code is executed on the server, and the resulting HTML is sent to the client’s web browser. This allows PHP to generate dynamic content, which can be customized based on user input or other factors. PHP is widely used for creating web-based applications and content management systems, such as WordPress and Drupal. It is open-source software, which means that it is free to use and distribute, and has a large and active community of users and developers. PHP is a powerful and versatile language that is well-suited for web development.

Pixel Tag

A pixel tag (also called a clear GIF or web beacon) is a small, transparent image that is placed on a web page or in an email. Pixel tags are often used to track the online activities of users, such as the pages they visit or the emails they open.

When a user visits a website that contains a pixel tag, their web browser sends a request to the server hosting the image. This request can include information about the user, such as their IP address, the date and time of the request, and the website that the user came from. The server can then record this information and use it to track the user’s activities on the website.

Pixel tags can also be used in emails to track whether an email has been opened or forwarded. When an email containing a pixel tag is opened, the image request is sent to the server, which can then record the action and use it to track the effectiveness of the email campaign.

Pixel tags are often used for website analytics and advertising purposes, and are a common feature of modern websites and email campaigns. However, users can choose to disable or block the loading of pixel tags in their web browsers or email clients if they wish.

Plug-in

A Plug-In is a third party code that extends the capabilities of the CMS (Content Management System) a website is running on. Plug-ins are a way to extend the functionality of a websites use without having to edit the core coding of the website.Plug-ins may also refer to third-party software installed on computers as well that offer the same type of extended functionality.

Prototype

In web design, a prototype is a simplified version of a website or application that is used to test and demonstrate the design and functionality of the user interface (UI). Prototypes are typically created using tools such as InVision, Adobe XD, or Figma, and are used to present the overall look and feel of a website or application, as well as to test and refine the user experience (UX).

Prototypes can range from low-fidelity wireframes, which are simple sketches or layouts that show the basic structure and layout of the UI, to high-fidelity mockups, which are more detailed and interactive representations of the UI.

Prototypes are an important tool for designers and developers as they allow them to quickly and easily test and refine the design and functionality of a website or application. They can be used to gather feedback from users and stakeholders, to identify any issues or problems with the UI, and to make refinements and improvements to the design.

Overall, prototypes are a useful and important tool in the web design process, as they allow designers and developers to test and refine the design and functionality of a website or application before it is built.

QR Code (Quick Response Code)

A QR code is a type of barcode that contains a series of dots. It is usually scanned using a scanner or a smartphone scanner used with the built in camera. Once the code is scanned certain software on the device will convert the dots into a number string or a string of characters. In retrospect scanning the code on your phone might open up a web address through the phones browser.

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Reciprocal Link

In the context of the web, a reciprocal link is a link that is exchanged between two websites, with each site linking to the other. This is often done as a way to improve the visibility and search engine rankings of both sites. Reciprocal linking can be beneficial because search engines often use the number and quality of a website’s inbound links (i.e., links from other sites) as a signal of the site’s relevance and authority. Therefore, having reciprocal links can help both websites appear more relevant and trustworthy to search engines, which can improve their search rankings. However, it’s important to be careful when engaging in reciprocal linking, as some search engines may penalize websites that engage in excessive or unnatural linking practices.

Remote Server

A remote server is a server that is hosted and managed at a different location from the user who is accessing it. In other words, it is a server that is not located on the user’s local network or device. Remote servers are commonly used to host websites and web-based applications, and are accessed over the internet using a web browser or other client software. They are an essential part of the World Wide Web, as they provide the infrastructure and resources that are needed to host and deliver the files and content of websites. Remote servers are typically owned and managed by hosting companies or other service providers, and are accessed by users on an as-needed basis. They provide users with the ability to access and use remote computing resources and data, without the need to have their own physical servers or infrastructure.

Robots.txt

A Robots.txt file is a text file that is used to instruct web robots (also known as web crawlers or spiders) which pages on a website should not be crawled or indexed. This file is placed in the root directory of a website and is used to help search engines understand which parts of a website should be indexed and which should not. The Robots.txt file uses a specific syntax to specify which pages should be ignored, and it can also be used to specify the location of a website’s sitemap.

RSS (Rich Site Summary)

RSS (Rich Site Summary), commonly called ‘Really Simple Syndication’, is a web feed which allows your users to access updates to content throughout your website. The feed itself can allow users to keep track of many updates and changes to websites in a single news aggregator. The aggregator will automatically check with the websites RSS feed for new content.

RSS Feed

An RSS feed (Really Simple Syndication or Rich Site Summary) is a way to publish frequently updated content, such as blog posts or news articles, in a standardized format. An RSS feed allows users to subscribe to the feed using a feed reader or news aggregator, which can then display the updated content in one place, making it easier for the user to stay informed about new content from multiple sources.

RSS feeds typically contain a list of recent articles or posts, along with a brief summary of each one and a link to the full article. The feed is updated each time a new article is published, so users who have subscribed to the feed will see the new content automatically. Many websites and blogs offer an RSS feed as a way for users to keep track of new content, and many feed readers and news aggregators also allow users to search for and subscribe to feeds from a variety of sources.

Script

In the context of a website, a “script” typically refers to a piece of code that is executed by a web browser or other software in order to perform a specific function or task. Scripts are often written in programming languages such as JavaScript, PHP, or Python, and are used to add interactivity and dynamic features to a website. For example, a script could be used to validate a form input, to create an animated effect, or to display data from a database. Scripts can also be used to automate tasks or processes on a website, such as sending emails or updating content. They are an essential part of many modern websites, and are used to enhance the user experience and improve the functionality of the site.

Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

Search engine optimization (SEO) is the process of improving a website’s visibility and ranking in search engine results pages. SEO is important because it helps to ensure that a website appears at the top of the search engine results for relevant keywords and phrases, which can help to drive more traffic to the site. SEO involves a variety of different techniques, such as optimizing the website’s content and structure, building high-quality backlinks, and improving the website’s loading speed and mobile-friendliness. By implementing effective SEO strategies, businesses and organizations can improve their search engine rankings and increase the amount of organic, or unpaid, traffic to their website.

Search Intent

Search intent, also known as user intent, refers to the reason behind a user’s search query. When someone enters a search query into a search engine, they have a specific goal or intent in mind, such as finding information, answering a question, or making a purchase. Understanding the search intent behind a particular query can help businesses and organizations create content that is more relevant and useful to the user, and that is more likely to rank well in search engine results. For example, if someone searches for “best laptops for gaming,” the search intent is likely to be to find information about laptops that are suitable for gaming. By creating content that addresses this specific search intent, a business or organization can improve the chances that their content will be shown to the user and that they will be able to provide the information that the user is looking for.v

Search Results

Search results are the list of web pages, images, videos, or other content that are displayed in response to a search query. Search results are typically displayed by a search engine, such as Google, in a list format, with each result containing a title, a brief summary of the content, and a link to the full content.

Search results are ranked based on a variety of factors, including the relevance of the content to the search query, the quality of the content, and the credibility of the website. The goal of search results is to provide users with the most relevant and useful content for their search query.

Search results can be further refined using filters or sorting options, such as date, relevance, or type of content. This can help users to find the specific content they are looking for and to narrow down their search results.

Overall, search results are an important part of the search process, as they help users to find the content they are looking for and to understand the relevance of the content to their search query.

Semantic Markup

Semantic markup is the use of HTML markup to reinforce the semantics of the information in web pages and web applications.

Semantic HTML is processed by traditional web browsers as well as by many other user agents. CSS is used to suggest its presentation to human users.

Recent HTML standards discourage the use of the element (i) in preference to a more accurate element like (em). This being said the stylesheet used should specify whether emphasis is denoted by an italic, bold, or underlying font.

Server

A server is a computer or program that provides a service to another computer or program, known as a client. In the context of web design, a server is typically used to host a website and provide it to users who access it over the internet. When a user types a web address into their browser, their computer sends a request to the server hosting the website, which then responds by sending the requested website back to the user’s computer. This allows users to access and interact with the website from anywhere with an internet connection.

Sidebar

A sidebar is a column that is typically displayed on the side of a web page and is used to display additional content or navigation options. Sidebars are often used to provide access to secondary content or navigation options that are not critical to the main content of the page.

Sidebars are typically narrower than the main content area and are often used to display content such as links to other pages or sections of the website, advertisements, or related content. They are often used in combination with a main content area to provide a balanced layout and to make it easy for users to access additional content or navigation options.

Sidebars are commonly found on blog and news websites, where they are used to display links to other articles or categories, as well as on e-commerce websites, where they are used to display links to related products or categories.

Overall, sidebars are a useful tool for providing access to additional content or navigation options on a website and can help to improve the user experience by making it easy for users to access the content they are looking for.

Sitemap

A sitemap is a list or outline of the pages and other content on a website. It typically provides a hierarchical structure of the website’s content, showing the relationship between the different pages and sections of the site. Sitemaps are often used to help users navigate a website, and to provide a summary of the content that is available on the site. They can also be used by search engines to better understand the structure and content of a website, which can improve the site’s search engine optimization (SEO) and visibility in search results. Sitemaps are typically created and maintained by the website owner, and can be in the form of a hierarchical list or a visual map of the site’s content.

Slider

A slider is a graphical user interface (GUI) element that is used to display a series of related content items in a visually appealing way. Sliders are commonly used on websites to display a series of images, videos, or other multimedia content in a slide show format, with each slide transitioning to the next automatically or on demand.

Sliders are typically placed at the top of a web page and are designed to grab the user’s attention and to encourage them to interact with the content. They are often used to showcase products, services, or key messages and are typically accompanied by a tagline or headline that provides additional context or a call to action.

Sliders are usually created using JavaScript and are highly customizable, with a range of options available for controlling the transitions, speed, and other aspects of the slide show.

Overall, sliders are a useful tool for displaying a series of related content items in a visually appealing way and can help to improve the user experience by grabbing the user’s attention and encouraging them to interact with the content.

SQL Injection

SQL injection is a type of cyber attack that involves inserting malicious code into a website’s database through an SQL query. SQL, or Structured Query Language, is a programming language that is used to manage and manipulate databases. An SQL injection attack occurs when an attacker inserts malicious code into an SQL query in order to gain access to sensitive information, such as user names and passwords, or to damage or destroy the database. SQL injection attacks can have serious consequences, such as data breaches, loss of sensitive information, and financial loss. To prevent SQL injection attacks, website owners and developers should use best practices for writing and executing SQL queries and should always validate user input to ensure that it is safe and not potentially malicious.

Subdomain

A subdomain is a part of a larger domain name that can be used to create a separate and distinct website within the same main domain. Subdomains are typically created to organize and structure the content of a larger website, or to create a separate space for a specific purpose or audience. For example, if the main domain for a website is “example.com,” a subdomain could be “blog.example.com” or “support.example.com.” Subdomains are often used to differentiate between different areas or sections of a website, or to create separate sites for specific purposes or groups of users. They are typically created and managed by the owner of the main domain.

Template

Website templates are used in web development and design to allow designers and developers to allow automatic generation of custom websites and pages. This allows for the reuse of a site, while allowing dynamic elements to be defined based upon the parameters of the database request.

Templates can be present in CMS (Content Management Systems), web application frameworks, and HTML editors.

Timeout

In the context of web surfing, a “timeout” typically refers to a situation where a website or web page is unable to be loaded or accessed due to a network or connectivity issue. This can happen for a variety of reasons, such as a slow internet connection, a server outage, or a problem with the website itself. When a timeout occurs, the user may see an error message or a blank page, and may be unable to access the content they were trying to view. Timeouts can be frustrating for users, and can affect their experience of using the web. To prevent timeouts, users can try using a different browser, clearing their cache and cookies, or troubleshooting their internet connection.

Traffic

In the context of a website, “traffic” refers to the number of visitors or users who access the site. This is often measured in terms of the number of visits or pageviews a website receives over a given period of time, such as a day, week, or month. Website traffic is an important metric for website owners, as it can provide insights into the popularity and reach of the site, as well as help identify trends and patterns in user behavior. Website traffic is typically measured using web analytics tools, which can track the number of visits, pageviews, and other metrics for a given website.

Upload

In web terms, “upload” refers to the process of transferring a file from a local computer or device to a remote server or website. This is typically done using a web browser or other software, and allows users to share their files with others or to access them from different devices. When you upload a file, it is sent over the internet and stored on the server, where it can then be accessed by others or downloaded to a local device. The opposite of upload is download, which refers to the process of transferring a file from a remote server or website to a local computer or device.

URL (Uniform Resource Locator)

A URL (Uniform Resource Locator) is a reference to a resource on the World Wide Web that specifies the location of the resource on a computer network allowing a mechanism to retrieve it. URLs occur most commonly to reference web pages, but are also used for FTP (File Transfer Protocol), Email, Database access, and a large list of other applications.

Usability

In web design, usability refers to the ease of use and user-friendliness of a website. It encompasses a wide range of factors that affect how easily and efficiently users can interact with and navigate a website, such as the layout, organization, and labeling of content, the responsiveness of the site to user input, and the accessibility of the site for people with disabilities.

A website that is considered to have good usability is one that is easy to use, intuitive, and efficient. It is designed to help users accomplish their goals quickly and easily, whether that be finding information, making a purchase, or completing a form. It should also be consistent and predictable in its navigation, layout, and behavior.

Usability testing is a method used to evaluate a website’s usability by observing real users as they perform specific tasks on the site. This can provide valuable insights into how users interact with the site, and help identify areas for improvement.

Voice Search

Voice search is a type of technology that allows users to search for information or perform other actions by speaking into a device, rather than typing a query into a search box or clicking on links. Many smartphones and other devices now have voice search capabilities built-in, and users can activate the voice search function by saying a specific trigger word or phrase, such as “OK Google” or “Hey Siri.” Voice search is becoming increasingly popular, and it is especially useful for people who are on the go or who have difficulty typing. By optimizing their websites for voice search, businesses and organizations can improve their visibility and make it easier for users to find their content.

VPN (Virtual Private Network)

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) extends a private network through a public network. It enables for the client to send and receive the data across a shared or public network. All applications running across the VPN can then benefit from the functionality, security, and management of the VPN.

W3C (World Wide Web Consortium)

The World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) is an international organization that develops and maintains standards for the World Wide Web. Its mission is to lead the Web to its full potential by developing protocols and guidelines that ensure the long-term growth of the Web.

The W3C was founded in 1994 by Tim Berners-Lee, the inventor of the World Wide Web, and is led by a team of Web experts from around the world. It is made up of member organizations and individual members who work together to develop and promote standards for the Web.

One of the main roles of the W3C is to develop and maintain technical standards for the Web, such as the Hypertext Markup Language (HTML), Cascading Style Sheets (CSS), and the Extensible Markup Language (XML). The W3C also provides guidelines and best practices for web design and development, such as the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) and the Mobile Web Best Practices.

These standards are intended to ensure that the Web is accessible, usable, and easily understandable for all users, regardless of their device or abilities. Adherence to these standards helps ensure that web pages are compatible across different browsers and platforms and it helps to improve web accessibility and user experience.

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Web Browser

A web browser is a software application that is used to access, view, and interact with the resources and content on the World Wide Web. A web browser connects to web servers, retrieves web pages and other resources, and displays them to the user. It also provides a range of features and tools that allow the user to navigate between different pages, to search for information, and to interact with web-based applications and content. Some examples of popular web browsers include Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Microsoft Edge. Web browsers are an essential part of the web, and are typically the primary interface through which users access and interact with the internet.

Web Page

A web page is a single document that is part of a larger website. It typically contains a specific set of information or resources, and is accessed via a web browser. A web page is typically written in HTML, which stands for Hypertext Markup Language. This is a special coding language that is used to structure and format the content on a web page, including text, images, videos, and other multimedia elements. A web page can also include other technologies, such as CSS and JavaScript, which are used to add styling and interactivity to the page. When you visit a website, you are typically accessing multiple web pages, which are linked together to form the overall website.

Web Server

A web server is a computer or network of computers that are specifically configured to host and serve the files and resources of one or more websites. When a user accesses a website using a web browser, the request is sent to the web server, which then retrieves the appropriate files and resources and sends them back to the user’s browser. This allows the user to view and interact with the website’s content. Web servers are typically connected to the internet and are accessible from anywhere in the world. They are an essential part of the World Wide Web, and are responsible for hosting and delivering the files and resources that make up the websites on the internet.

Web Speed Optimization

Web speed optimization refers to the practice of making a website load as quickly as possible in order to improve the user experience and increase the likelihood of conversions. This can involve a variety of different techniques, such as optimizing images, minifying code, reducing the number of redirects, and leveraging browser caching. By making a website load faster, businesses and organizations can improve their search engine rankings, reduce bounce rates, and increase the amount of time that users spend on their site. Web speed optimization is an important aspect of search engine optimization (SEO) and can have a significant impact on a website’s performance and success.

Web Standards

Web standards are pretty much the non-proprietary standards and technical specifications that define aspects of the World Wide Web. The term has been associated with the trend of endorsing good code and a set of standardized practices for building websites. It is also a philosophy of web design and development that includes the above methods.

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Webinar

A webinar is a type of online event that involves live, interactive audio or video communication between the host and the attendees. Webinars are often used for educational or informational purposes, and they can be a useful way for businesses, organizations, and individuals to share information and engage with their audience in real time. Webinars can be hosted using a variety of different tools and platforms, and they often include features such as slides, video, and audio, as well as the ability for attendees to ask questions and participate in live polls or surveys. Many webinars are recorded and made available for viewing after the event, so that people who were unable to attend live can still access the information.

Webmail

Webmail is a type of email service that allows users to access and manage their email accounts through a web browser, instead of using a dedicated email client. With webmail, users can send and receive emails, create and organize their email folders, and manage their contacts, all without having to install any software on their computer. Webmail services are typically provided by email providers, such as Google, Microsoft, and Yahoo, and are accessed using a web browser, such as Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, or Microsoft Edge. Some popular examples of webmail services include Gmail, Outlook.com, and Yahoo Mail.

Website

A website is a collection of interconnected web pages that typically have a common domain name and are accessible via the internet. Websites are hosted on web servers and are typically accessed using a web browser. They can contain a wide range of information and resources, including text, images, videos, audio files, and other multimedia content. Websites are often used to share information and resources with a wide audience, and can serve a variety of purposes, such as providing news, entertainment, education, or e-commerce services.

Wireframe

A wireframe is a low-fidelity representation of a website or application’s user interface (UI) that is used to communicate the layout and structure of the UI. Wireframes are typically created using simple shapes and lines to represent the various UI elements, such as buttons, menus, and forms, and are used to demonstrate the overall structure and layout of the UI without focusing on the visual design or functional details.

Wireframes are typically created at an early stage in the design process and are used to get feedback and approval from stakeholders before proceeding with the development of the final product. They are a useful tool for communicating design ideas and for gathering feedback from users and other stakeholders.

Wireframes are typically black and white and do not include any color, imagery, or other design elements. They are used to focus on the overall layout and structure of the UI, rather than on the visual design or functional details.

Wireframes can be used in a variety of contexts, including website design, mobile app design, and software interface design. They are an important tool for designers and developers as they allow them to quickly and easily test different design concepts and layouts and to gather feedback from users and stakeholders.

World Wide Web (WWW)

The World Wide Web, or “www” for short, is a vast network of interconnected documents and other resources, linked by hyperlinks and URLs. It’s a decentralized system that allows people from all over the world to access a wide range of information and resources. The web is constantly growing and evolving, with new pages and websites being added all the time. It’s an essential part of the internet, and allows people to easily access and share information, ideas, and resources.

WYSIWYG

WYSIWYG stands for “What You See Is What You Get.” It is a type of interface in which the content being created or edited on the screen appears very similar to the final product. For example, if you are using a word processor with a WYSIWYG interface, the text that you type will appear on the screen in the same font, size, and style as it will when it is printed or saved as a document.

The idea behind WYSIWYG is to make it easier for users to create and edit documents, because they can see exactly how the final product will look as they are working on it. This is in contrast to older systems that required users to enter special codes or formatting commands in order to control the appearance of their documents. WYSIWYG interfaces are commonly used in software such as word processors, web page editors, and desktop publishing programs.

XHTML (Extensible Hypertext Markup Language)

XHTML (Extensible Hypertext Markup Language) is part of the XML family of programming languages. It extends the HTML language that Web pages and Web sites are formed from. XHTML documents are formed well and therefore may be parsed using standard XML.

XML Sitemaps Optimization

XML sitemaps are a way for website owners to tell search engines about the pages on their website that they want to be indexed. By creating and submitting an XML sitemap, website owners can ensure that search engines are aware of all of the important pages on their site and can crawl them more efficiently. XML sitemap optimization refers to the practice of making sure that an XML sitemap is accurate, well-structured, and up-to-date, so that search engines can use it effectively. This can include things like making sure that the sitemap includes all of the important pages on the website, organizing the pages in the sitemap in a logical way, and regularly updating the sitemap to reflect any changes to the website. By optimizing an XML sitemap, website owners can help improve their search engine rankings and make it easier for users to find their content.

YouTube

YouTube is the largest video sharing service on the World Wide Web. Users are able to watch videos posted by others as well as upload their own.

YouTube started as an independent service in 2005 and was acquired by Google (the search engine giant) the year following. Videos posted to YouTube can be used to help promote products and services for online businesses.

Zone File

Zone Files are stored on a name server through a hosting account providing information about one or more of the domains files. The files contain a list of DNS (Domain Name Server) records that map between domain names and IP addresses. The records in turn define the IP address of the domain name, allow for a reverse lookup through services like ICANN, and contain DNS as well as mail server information.

Everything ‘By Design’

“But I say that even as the holy and the righteous cannot rise beyond the highest which is in each one of you, So the wicked and the weak cannot fall lower than the lowest which is in you also.
– Kahil Gibran

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