Understanding Web & Design Terminology

Building a website can feel overwhelming if you’re not familiar with the language. From domains to SSL certificates, there’s a lot of technical jargon—but once you understand the basics, it all starts to make sense.

At CJ Creative Design, we walk alongside you through the entire process. Whether you’re launching your first website or updating an existing one, we’ll explain the terms and tools you’ll encounter—no tech background needed.

  • Backend (of a website) - the framework and software running behind the scenes that makes the website function.

  • Browser – Software like Chrome or Firefox used to view websites on your computer or mobile device.

  • Domain – A unique name for your website (e.g., cjcreativedesign.com).

  • Domain Registration – The process of claiming your domain. May cost $20–$1,000+/year.

  • Domain Extensions – The part after the dot (.com, .org, .info, etc.).

  • URL (Universal Resource Locator) – The full web address (e.g., https://www.example.org).

  • Web Host – The service where your website files are stored and accessed online. (the company who owns the server)

  • Server - The actual computer that holds the website files and necessary accompanying software.

  • SSL Certificate – Adds security to your site (shows “https” in the address).

  • HTTP / HTTPS – Protocol that allows web browsing. HTTPS means secure with SSL.

  • CMS (Content Management System) – Software like WordPress that lets you update content without coding.

  • WordPress – A popular open-source CMS great for blogs and websites.

  • PHP – A programming language used behind many websites, especially WordPress.

  • CSS (Cascading Style Sheets) – Controls fonts, colors, and spacing on your site.

  • Meta Tags – Hidden info (like keywords and page descriptions) that help with SEO.

  • Open Source – Software anyone can use, modify, and share (e.g., WordPress, Inkscape).

  • SEO (Search Engine Optimization) – Optimizing your site to rank better in search results.

  • SERP (Search Engine Results Page) - The page that appears when you conduct a search.

  • Keywords – Words and phrases people type into search engines to find your site.

  • Search Engine – Tools like Google or Bing that help users find websites.

  • Call to Action (CTA) – A prompt encouraging visitors to take an action like “Donate” or “Contact Us.”

  • MailChimp Integration – Connecting your website with MailChimp for email newsletters.

  • Analytics – Tools like Google Analytics that track visitor behavior on your site.

  • .BMP (Bitmap) – A basic raster image type that pixelates when enlarged. Can be converted to another format for using on the web.

  • .GIF (Graphics Interchange Format) – Pixel-based image format, often used for animations.

  • .JPG / .JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group) – Common format for digital photos.

  • .PNG (Portable Network Graphics) – Web-safe image format with transparency support.

  • .SVG (Scalable Vector Graphic) - Image format that uses mathematical formulas, meaning that you can enlarge or shrink the image without losing quality. Great for logos and icons.

  • .WEBP (Web Picture) - Best format for websites because it offers smaller file sizes for comparable quality.

  • Raster Image – Made of pixels; blurs when enlarged (e.g., JPG, GIF, PNG).

  • Vector Image – Made of paths; stays sharp when resized (ideal for logos).

  • Pixel – The smallest unit of a digital image or screen display.

  • PDF (Portable Document Format) – A file format that preserves document layout across devices.

  • Contact Form – A form on your website for visitors to send you a message.

  • Landing Page – A standalone web page focused on one goal (e.g., event signup).

  • Plugin – An add-on that extends your website's functionality (e.g., SEO, calendars, forms).

  • PayPal Button – Lets users donate or make payments through your website.

  • Search Engines – Like Google, Bing, or Yahoo, they help people find your website.

  • Facebook – A social networking platform used for community engagement and ads.

  • Instagram – Ideal for visual storytelling and connecting with younger audiences.

  • YouTube – The world’s second-largest search engine, great for video content.

  • LinkedIn – Best for professional networking and B2B outreach.

  • X (formerly Twitter) – Good for real-time updates and community engagement.

  • Pinterest – Great for visual inspiration, especially in design and events.

  • Nextdoor – A hyper-local platform for neighborhood-level advertising.

  • Alignable – A networking platform for small business owners to share referrals.