Byte: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'byte' when referring to a unit of digital information typically consisting of 8 bits. It is commonly used in the context of computer memory and storage.

• The file size is 200 megabytes.
• You need at least 512 bytes of memory to run this program.

Use 'octet' when a clear distinction from other byte sizes is needed, particularly in networking. It ensures the meaning of an 8-bit byte in environments where bytes are of different sizes.

• The IPv4 address is typically written in four octets separated by periods.
• Each octet in the MAC address is separated by colons.

Use 'bit' when referring to the basic unit of information in computing and digital communications, representing a binary digit (0 or 1). It is essential in contexts involving data transmission and binary logic.

• The modem transmits data at a rate of 56 kilobits per second.
• Each pixel is represented by a 24-bit color value.

Typically used in computing to refer to a unit of digital information that consists of 8 bits. Commonly used when discussing data storage, memory, and processing.

• A file size of 1024 bytes is equal to 1 kilobyte.
• Each character in a text file is stored as one byte.

Used in computing to refer to a contiguous set of bytes or bytes grouped together for purposes like reading from or writing to storage media. Also used in blockchain technology. In general English, can refer to a solid piece of material or an obstacle.

• A block in a filesystem might be 512 bytes in size.
• Data in the blockchain is stored in blocks.
• He placed a block of wood on the table.

In computing, refers to the standard unit of data that a processor can handle; the size can vary depending on the architecture (e.g., 16-bit, 32-bit). In general English, it refers to a single distinct meaningful element of speech or writing.

• A 32-bit processor can process 4-byte words.
• She typed a word into the search box.

This term is used in computing and digital technology to describe a unit of data consisting of 8 bits. It is often used when talking about memory storage or data size.

• The file size is 1,024 bytes.
• Your computer has 8 gigabytes of RAM.

This word is used in technical contexts where data needs to be converted from one form to another, often to ensure that it can be properly stored or transmitted. It can apply to text, images, video, and other types of data.

• The software can encode video files in various formats.
• Make sure to encode your password before storing it in the database.

This term is used when referring to the process of sending data from one place to another. It is common in networking, telecommunications, and broadcasting.

• The modem can transmit data at high speeds.
• Radio signals are used to transmit information over the airwaves.