GyaanVibe is a focused educational platform dedicated to helping SSC CGL aspirants crack Tier 1 & Tier 2 exam with a strategic, day-wise, and well-structured preparation approach.
SSC CGL Preparation – Day 11
Computer Basics: Downloading & Uploading
🔍 What is Downloading?
Definition:
Downloading refers to the process of receiving data or files from the internet (or a remote server) to your local computer or device.
🔹 Common Examples:
- Downloading a PDF from a website
- Installing software by downloading its setup file
- Downloading music or video files from the internet
🔹 Types of Files Commonly Downloaded:
- Documents (PDF, DOCX, XLSX)
- Media files (MP3, MP4, JPG)
- Software & applications (EXE, APK, DMG)
🔹 Common Download Sources:
- Websites
- Email attachments
- Cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox)
- App stores (Google Play, Microsoft Store)
📤 What is Uploading?
Definition:
Uploading is the opposite of downloading. It means sending or transferring files from your local device to the internet, a server, or another device.
🔹 Common Examples:
- Uploading your resume to a job portal
- Adding photos to Google Drive or Instagram
- Sending an attachment via email
- Submitting homework on an educational portal
🔹 Platforms Where Uploading Happens:
- Cloud storage services (Drive, OneDrive, Dropbox)
- Email platforms (Gmail, Outlook)
- Social media (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter)
- Government and job application websites
⬇️ Steps to Download a File:
- Go to the website or source.
- Click the Download button or link.
- Choose a location (if prompted).
- The file is saved to your Downloads folder by default.
⬆️ Steps to Upload a File:
- Go to the upload platform (e.g., Gmail, Drive).
- Click the Upload/Attach button.
- Browse and select the file from your device.
- Wait for the upload to complete.
- Submit or send.
🖥️ Important Terms Related to Downloading & Uploading:
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Download Speed | Speed at which data is transferred from the internet to your device |
| Upload Speed | Speed at which data is transferred from your device to the internet |
| Bandwidth | The maximum amount of data that can be transferred per second |
| Cloud Storage | Online services where files can be uploaded and stored securely |
| File Size | The space a file occupies, usually in KB, MB, or GB |
🔐 Safety Tips While Downloading/Uploading:
- ✅ Download only from trusted websites.
- ✅ Use antivirus software to scan downloads.
- ✅ Do not upload personal/confidential data on public websites.
- ✅ Avoid clicking unknown download links in emails or popups.
- ✅ Use strong internet for larger uploads or downloads.
💡 Difference Between Downloading & Uploading
| Feature | Downloading | Uploading |
|---|---|---|
| Direction | Internet → Your Device | Your Device → Internet |
| Example | Saving a song | Sending a photo to Google Drive |
| Internet Use | More commonly used by users | More commonly used by websites |
| Visibility | File appears in “Downloads” folder | File appears on a cloud/server |
🌐 Popular Websites/Apps for Downloading & Uploading:
- Gmail – Upload attachments / download files
- Google Drive – Upload & download files
- YouTube – Upload videos
- WhatsApp Web – Download shared media
- UPSC/SSC websites – Download admit cards, upload documents
