Download (Noun)

What is a Download?


Definition

A download is a file or piece of data that has been copied from a remote computer, website, or network onto a local device. Once stored, it exists as a regular file within the device’s file system. This means the information can be opened, moved, or used without reconnecting to the original source.

Frayer Model Overview

Characteristics

  • Exists as a file stored on your device

  • Originated from the internet or a network source

  • Can be opened, moved, renamed, or deleted like other files

  • Often saved automatically to a Downloads location

  • May have a file type that indicates its format

Examples

  • A PDF listed in your Downloads folder

  • An image file saved from a website

  • A document downloaded from email

  • An installer file downloaded for an application

  • A spreadsheet saved from a shared link

Non-Examples

  • The act of downloading itself

  • A webpage that has not been saved

  • A streamed video that is not stored on the device

  • A file that exists only on a website or server

  • A folder that contains downloaded files

Related Terms