Introduction

As a non-technical founder, you don’t need to be a coding expert—but understanding key tech terms can help you make better business decisions, communicate with developers, and avoid costly mistakes. Whether you're building an app, launching a SaaS product, or starting an e-commerce business, knowing the right terminology can set you up for success.

In this guide, we’ll break down essential software, cloud, AI, cybersecurity, and startup tech terms in a way that’s easy to understand.

Why Understanding Tech Terminology is Important

Bridging the Communication Gap

Founders often struggle to communicate with developers. Learning key tech terms helps you:
✅ Explain your vision clearly
✅ Avoid misunderstandings in product development
✅ Work effectively with tech teams and investors

Avoiding Costly Mistakes

Many startups fail due to poor technical decisions. Knowing the basics of databases, APIs, and hosting can prevent expensive errors in development.

Improving Decision-Making

Understanding tech enables better decisions when:

• Choosing between custom development vs. no-code tools

• Selecting the right tech stack

• Planning for scalability and security

Basic Software Development Terms

Frontend vs. Backend

• Frontend: The user interface (what users see)

• Backend: The logic and database (what powers the app)

API (Application Programming Interface)

APIs allow different apps to talk to each other (e.g., Stripe API for payments).

Database

A system that stores app or website data (e.g., MySQL, Firebase, MongoDB).

Open Source vs. Proprietary Software

• Open Source: Free, community-driven (e.g., WordPress)

• Proprietary: Paid, closed-source (e.g., Shopify)

Tech Stack

The combination of programming languages, databases, and tools used to build an app.

Web and Mobile Development Terminology

Responsive Design

Websites that automatically adjust to different screen sizes.

Progressive Web Apps (PWA)

Websites that behave like mobile apps (e.g., Twitter PWA).

Native vs. Hybrid Apps

• Native: Built for a specific platform (iOS, Android)

• Hybrid: Works across platforms using one codebase (e.g., React Native).

Cloud Computing and Hosting Terms

Cloud Computing

Storing data and running apps on remote servers (e.g., AWS, Google Cloud).

SaaS, PaaS, IaaS

• SaaS (Software as a Service): Web apps like Gmail, Dropbox

• PaaS (Platform as a Service): Tools to build apps (e.g., Firebase)

• IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service): Full cloud infrastructure (e.g., AWS, Azure)

AI and Machine Learning Basics

Artificial Intelligence (AI) vs. Machine Learning (ML)

• AI: Simulates human intelligence

• ML: A subset of AI that learns from data

Natural Language Processing (NLP)

AI’s ability to understand human language (e.g., chatbots).

Cybersecurity Terminology

Encryption

A method of securing data from hackers.

Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

An extra security layer for logins.

Data Breach

A cyberattack where hackers steal sensitive data.

Startup and Business Tech Terms

MVP (Minimum Viable Product)

A basic version of a product to test the market.

No-Code & Low-Code

Platforms that let you build apps without coding.

Scalability

The ability of a system to handle growth.

Conclusion

Mastering these tech terms empowers non-technical founders to lead their startups confidently. By understanding development, AI, security, and startup metrics, you can build a better product and make smarter business decisions.