Algorithm
The term Algorithm describes a process or set of rules to be followed in calculations or other problem-solving operations, especially by a computer. Algorithms usually take one or more inputs, run them systematically through a series of steps, and provide one or more outputs.
The concept of algorithms has been around for more than 1,000 years and comes from the latin word "algorithmi" which is related to algebra. But the public will only have come across the term since Google started promoting itself as a superior search engine, and refering to its page ranking criteria as an algorithm, as if that is some sort of magical formula bestowed by gods.
But an algorithm in it simplest form can be only an if/else query, for example:
- if the requested word/phrase is found in the text (ie: web page/document) then add 1 brownie point
Once that intital criteria has been passed the algorithm can then filter for further refinement and add more checks.
Algorithm usage
Algorithms have been used extensively for the Internet ever since its inception. Every piece of code used by routers, web servers, web pages and web browsers uses algorithms. Even the web pages that you visit on the web are governed by algorithms because they discern what you see. For example if you change language it will be an algorthm that detects that and provide the best alternative selection. And because all web browsers behave differently, it will be an aalgorthm that tests which browsers you are using and then provides the best layout, etc.
Even this page that you are reading now is governed by algorithms to detect if you have been refered via search results, using a web browser,trying to scrape the web site, or running bots and malicious scripts in the hope of exploiting or corrupting the data in our database.
Legal status
By themselves, algorithms are not usually patentable.
Algorithms and the future
By utilising logic, probability and statistics, algorithms can also estimate the likelihood and impact of different scenarios. Algorithms are thus a critical future component of everything from business to health and welfare.
The new buzzword for investors, and one that has evolved from Algorthims, is Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Please report any errors or typos here.