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

Frayer model diagram explaining the computer term “Download (noun),” divided into definition, characteristics, examples, and non-examples.

Download Printable “Download (noun)” Frayer Model (PDF)

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