IT Glossary

Your comprehensive dictionary of IT terms, cybersecurity concepts, and business technology definitions.

API
Application Programming Interface - A set of protocols and tools for building software applications that allows different software components to communicate with each other.
Backup
A copy of data stored in a separate location to protect against data loss due to hardware failure, cyber attacks, or human error.
Cloud Computing
The delivery of computing services including servers, storage, databases, networking, software, and analytics over the internet (the cloud).
Cybersecurity
The practice of protecting systems, networks, and programs from digital attacks aimed at accessing, changing, or destroying sensitive information.
Disaster Recovery
A set of policies and procedures to enable the recovery or continuation of vital technology infrastructure and systems following a natural or human-induced disaster.
Endpoint
Any device that connects to a network, such as computers, mobile devices, IoT devices, and servers.
Firewall
A network security device that monitors and filters incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules.
Hybrid Cloud
A computing environment that combines on-premises infrastructure with public cloud services, allowing data and applications to be shared between them.
IoT (Internet of Things)
A network of physical devices, vehicles, appliances, and other items embedded with electronics, software, sensors, and connectivity.
Malware
Malicious software designed to damage, disrupt, or gain unauthorized access to computer systems, including viruses, worms, trojans, and ransomware.
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
A security method that requires users to provide two or more verification factors to gain access to a resource, application, or online account.
Network Monitoring
The practice of overseeing a computer network's operation to identify slow or failing components and notify network administrators.
Patch Management
The process of managing updates for software applications and technologies, typically to fix security vulnerabilities and improve functionality.
Ransomware
A type of malware that encrypts files on a device and demands payment for the decryption key to restore access to the data.
SaaS (Software as a Service)
A software licensing and delivery model where software is accessed via subscription and hosted centrally, typically accessed through web browsers.
VPN (Virtual Private Network)
A secure connection between a device and a network over the internet, encrypting data and masking the user's IP address for privacy and security.
Zero Trust
A security framework that requires all users and devices to be authenticated and verified before being granted access to applications and data.