uninstall
To remove software completely from a system, including the elimination of files and components residing in system locations such as the Registry in Windows 95/98 or Windows NT. Some applications have built-in uninstall utilities, and in other cases a separate uninstall program can be used.
UNIX
A multi-user, multitasking operating system originally developed at AT&T Bell Laboratories in 1969 for use on minicomputers. UNIX is available in several related forms, including AIX« (a version of UNIX adapted by IBM to run on RISC-based workstations), A/UX« (a graphical version of UNIX for the Apple Macintosh), and HU-UX« (a version of UNIX adapted by HP).
unzip
To uncompress a file that has been compressed by a program such as PKZIP.
update
A new release of an existing software product that is generally free. A software update usually adds relatively minor new features to a product or addresses issues found after the program was released. Updates can be indicated by small changes in the software version numbers, such as the change from version 4.0 to version 4.0b.
upgrade
The new or enhanced version of a software product that is considered to have major enhancements or improvement to its features or functionality, and which is generally available at a fee. Software upgrades are typically indicated by a significant (integer) change in the version number, such as from version 4.0 to version 5.0.
UPS
Acronym for Uninterruptible Power Supply. A device, connected between a computer (or other electronic equipment) and a power source (usually an outlet receptacle), that ensures that electrical flow to the computer is not interrupted because of a blackout and, in most cases, protects the computer against potentially damaging events, such as power surges and brownouts. All UPS units are equipped with a battery and a loss-of-power sensor; if the sensor detects a loss of power, it switches over to the battery so that the user has time to save his or her work and shut off the computer.
username
The name by which a user is identified to a computer system or network. During the logon process, the user must enter the username and the correct password. If the system or network is connected to the Internet, the username generally corresponds to the leftmost part of the user's e-mail address.
