B2 noun Neutral

Configuration

/kənˌfɪɡ.jəˈreɪ.ʃən/

The specific way in which a computer system or software is set up or arranged. It involves choosing settings that determine how the system operates.

Examples

3 of 5
1

The default configuration is suitable for most users.

The standard setup is good for most people.

2

The IT team is finalizing the network configuration for the new office.

The tech staff is finishing the internet setup for the new building.

3

I messed up the configuration and now my Wi-Fi won't work.

I changed the settings wrong and now the internet is broken.

Word Family

Noun
configuration
Verb
configure
Adjective
configurable
💡

Memory Tip

Con-figure: to 'figure' out how things go 'together' (con).

Quick Quiz

If the software isn't working, check the ______ file to see if the settings are correct.

Correct!

The correct answer is: configuration

Examples

1

The default configuration is suitable for most users.

everyday

The standard setup is good for most people.

2

The IT team is finalizing the network configuration for the new office.

business

The tech staff is finishing the internet setup for the new building.

3

I messed up the configuration and now my Wi-Fi won't work.

informal

I changed the settings wrong and now the internet is broken.

4

Correct configuration of the firewall is essential for security.

academic

Setting up the security wall properly is vital for safety.

5

Please provide the server configuration details.

formal

Please give us the information on how the server is set up.

Word Family

Noun
configuration
Verb
configure
Adjective
configurable

Common Collocations

system configuration computer setup
default configuration original factory settings
network configuration internet structure setup
configuration file file containing settings
manual configuration setting up by hand

Common Phrases

reconfigure the system

set up the system again

standard configuration

normal way of setting things up

user configuration

settings chosen by the user

Often Confused With

Configuration vs Installation

Installation is putting the software on the computer; configuration is adjusting the settings once it's there.

📝

Usage Notes

Used both for physical hardware layouts and software settings.

⚠️

Common Mistakes

Learners sometimes use 'config' in formal writing, which should be avoided as it is a shorthand slang.

💡

Memory Tip

Con-figure: to 'figure' out how things go 'together' (con).

📖

Word Origin

From Latin 'configurare', meaning to fashion or shape after a pattern.

Grammar Patterns

countable noun often used with the verb 'modify' or 'change'

Quick Quiz

If the software isn't working, check the ______ file to see if the settings are correct.

Correct!

The correct answer is: configuration

More technology words

Algorithm

B2

A set of mathematical instructions or rules used by a computer to solve a problem or complete a task. It is the foundation of how software functions and processes data.

Authentication

B2

The process or action of verifying the identity of a user or process. It ensures that a person is who they claim to be before granting access to a system.

Browser

B2

A software application used to locate, retrieve, and display content on the World Wide Web. It translates web code into the visual pages we interact with.

Cloud

B2

The practice of using a network of remote servers hosted on the internet to store, manage, and process data. It replaces the need for local storage on personal computers.

Compatibility

B2

The capacity for two systems, software programs, or hardware devices to work together without any issues. It is a crucial factor when upgrading or integrating technology.

Cybersecurity

B2

The practice of protecting systems, networks, and programs from digital attacks. These attacks usually aim to access, change, or destroy sensitive information.

Database

B2

An organized collection of structured information, or data, typically stored electronically in a computer system. It allows for easy access, management, and updating of information.

Encryption

B2

The method by which information is converted into a secret code that hides the information's true meaning. Only someone with a special key can translate it back.

Interface

B2

The point where two systems, subjects, or organizations meet and interact. In computing, it most commonly refers to the way a user interacts with a software program or device.

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