Glossary

This glossary explains key terms used across TaskNote. Each definition links to pages where the concept is explained in context.

Encryption and Security

End to End Encryption#
End to End Encryption means that notes are encrypted on the user device before being sent to the server and can only be decrypted by the user. The server never has access to readable content.
AES-GCM (256-bit)#
AES-GCM (256-bit) is an authenticated encryption algorithm that combines strong data confidentiality with integrity verification. It encrypts data using a 256-bit key and ensures that encrypted content cannot be modified without detection. TaskNote uses AES-GCM on the client side to encrypt notes before they are stored or synced, providing high security with minimal performance overhead.
Encryption Key#
An Encryption Key is a secret value used to encrypt and decrypt note content. In TaskNote, the key is derived from the user password and never stored on the server in plain form.
Client Side Encryption#
Client Side Encryption means that all encryption and decryption operations happen directly in the browser or app before data is synced to the server.
Zero Knowledge#
Zero Knowledge means TaskNote cannot read user notes, passwords, or encryption keys. Only the user has access to decrypted content.
Local Encryption#
Local Encryption refers to encrypting data directly on the device before storage or synchronization.
Decryption#
Decryption is the process of converting encrypted data back into readable form using the correct encryption key.
Encrypted Data#
Encrypted Data is information that has been transformed into an unreadable format to protect it from unauthorized access.
Used in
Plain Text#
Plain Text is readable, unencrypted data before encryption or after successful decryption.
Cipher#
A Cipher is an algorithm used to perform encryption and decryption of data.
Key Derivation#
Key Derivation is the process of generating a secure encryption key from a password using cryptographic algorithms.
Password Based Encryption#
Password Based Encryption uses a user password to derive an encryption key instead of storing a key directly.
Hashing#
Hashing is a one way process that converts data into a fixed length value. It is commonly used for password verification.
Salt#
A Salt is random data added to a password before hashing to improve security and prevent precomputed attacks.
Encryption at Rest vs. In Transit#
Encryption at Rest protects data stored on disk, while Encryption in Transit protects data moving over the network. TaskNote uses both, plus Client-Side Encryption for total privacy.
Secure Storage#
Secure Storage refers to storing encrypted data in a way that prevents unauthorized access even if the storage is compromised.

Authentication and Access

Account Password#
Account Password is the secret used by the user to authenticate and unlock encrypted notes.
Master Password#
Master Password is the primary password used to derive encryption keys and protect all note content.
Session#
A Session is a temporary authenticated state that allows the user to access the app without logging in repeatedly.
Authentication#
Authentication is the process of verifying a user identity using credentials such as a password.
Authorization#
Authorization determines what actions an authenticated user is allowed to perform.
Login Session#
Login Session is the active period during which a user remains logged in.
Logout#
Logout ends the current session and removes access until reauthentication.
Password Reset#
Password Reset allows a user to set a new password. Depending on encryption setup, this may affect access to existing encrypted data.
Two Factor Authentication#
Two Factor Authentication adds an extra verification step during login to improve account security.
Two Factor Authentication#
Two Factor Authentication adds an extra verification step during login to improve account security.
Recovery Key#
A Recovery Key is an optional backup key that can help restore access if the main password is lost.

Notes and Data

Note#
A Note is a single piece of written content stored inside TaskNote.
Task#
A Task is an action item created inside TaskNote to track work, personal to dos, or next steps. Tasks live alongside notes and can be checked off when completed, keeping planning and execution in one workspace.
Reminder#
A Reminder is a scheduled notification. Reminders alert you at a specific date and time so important actions are not forgotten.
Encrypted Note#
An Encrypted Note is a note stored in encrypted form and only readable after decryption.
Folder#
A Folder is a container used to organize notes.
Notebook#
A Notebook is a collection of folders or notes grouped for organization.
Rich Text#
Rich Text allows formatting such as bold text, headings, and lists without using special syntax.
Markdown#
Markdown is a lightweight formatting syntax that allows structured text using plain characters.
Plain Text Editor#
Plain Text Editor allows writing without formatting while still supporting encryption.
Formatting#
Formatting refers to visual styles applied to text such as headings or lists.
Attachments#
Attachments are files added to notes and stored securely.
Metadata#
Metadata is additional information about notes such as creation date or last edit time.
Search Index#
Search Index is a structure used to make searching notes faster.

Sync and Storage

Cloud Storage#
Cloud Storage stores encrypted notes on remote servers for access across devices.
Sync#
Sync ensures that notes are updated and consistent across devices.
Server#
Server is the remote system used to store encrypted data and manage synchronization.
Client#
Client is the user device or browser where encryption and decryption occur.
Local Cache#
Local Cache stores temporary encrypted data on the device to improve performance.
Offline Mode#
Offline Mode allows users to view and edit notes without an internet connection.
Data Backup#
Data Backup is a copy of encrypted data stored to prevent data loss.
Data Loss#
Data Loss refers to permanent loss of access to notes due to missing keys or deleted data.
Version History#
Version History stores previous versions of notes for recovery.

Privacy and Policies

Privacy#
Privacy refers to protecting user data from unauthorized access.
Data Ownership#
Data Ownership means the user fully owns their notes and content.
User Data#
User Data includes notes, account settings, and related metadata.
Third Party Access#
Third Party Access refers to any external service accessing user data.
Data Breach#
A Data Breach is unauthorized access to stored data.
Security Policy#
Security Policy explains how security measures are implemented and maintained.
Privacy Policy#
Privacy Policy describes how user data is handled and protected.

Subscription and Account

Free Plan#
Free Plan provides basic access to TaskNote features at no cost.
Pro Plan#
Pro Plan unlocks advanced features and higher limits.
Used in
Subscription#
Subscription is a recurring payment that enables Pro features.
Billing#
Billing refers to payment processing and subscription management.
Upgrade#
Upgrade moves an account from Free to Pro.
Downgrade#
Downgrade switches an account from Pro back to Free.
Cancel Subscription#
Cancel Subscription stops future billing and returns the account to the Free plan.