You've probably heard the terms "upload" and "download" many times, but what do these terms actually mean? What does it mean to upload a file to another site, or download something from the web? What is the difference between a download and an upload? These are basic terms that everyone who is learning how to use a computer and navigate online should learn about and understand.

In this article, we'll go over what uploading and downloading means, as well as common peripheral terms and information that will help you have a firmer grasp of these common online processes.

What Does It Mean to Upload Something?

In the context of the web, to upload something means to send data from an individual user's computer to another computer, network, website, mobile device, or some other remotely connected networked location.

What Does It Mean to Download Something?

To download something on the web means to transfer data from a website or network, saving that information on your computer, tablet, or mobile device.

All sorts of information can be downloaded on the web: books, movies, software, etc. For example, you can download movies to your smartphone or mobile device to watch while you're on the go. If you can download software or applications to increase your computing capabilities (like finance applications to track your money or social media apps to connect with friends).

What Does It Mean to Ping Something?

A ping is a term used to refer to a tool that checks to see if a website is down or not. In the context of Web search, pinging a website basically means that you're endeavoring to determine whether a specific Web site is having issues; it could also help narrow down connectivity problems when you're attempting to upload or download something.

There are many sites that offer free ping utilities. One of the best ping sites is Down for Everyone, or Just Me? It's a simple, yet ingenious site that invites users to type in the name of the site they're having troubles with in order to ping it and see if there is actually a problem.

Examples: "I couldn't get to Google, so I sent out a ping to see if it was down."

How Fast Can I Upload or Download Something on the Web?

If you've ever wondered how good your connection to the Internet was, whether if that was out of pure curiosity or to see if there was a problem, then now's your chance — give your computer a simple and quick Internet speed test. This is a great way to get an accurate representation of how fast your Internet connection is at any one time, as well as solve possible connectivity issues.