It’s never easy learning about technology, and its rapid development isn’t helping businesses understand it any further. However, it’s important for everyone in your organization to be familiar with tech jargon. Once you learn the language, you can take advantage of technology better to not only keep a competitive edge, but also ensure maximum profits, high employee morale, and happier customers.
Here’s are some of the most common technical jargon all businesses have to be familiar with:
Antivirus software: This is a type of security software used to detect and remove malicious software on PCs, Macs, and mobile devices. Despite its name, antivirus software also targets other forms of malware like worms, ransomware, and Trojan horses, among many others.
Bring your own device (BYOD): BYOD is a work policy permitting employees to use their personal smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other mobile devices in the workplace and use them alongside company-provided gadgets. BYOD policies are becoming increasingly popular these days due to the flexibility they provide employees. A strong BYOD policy is required for every company to mitigate the risk of data and credential leaks and thefts.
Cloud computing: This is the delivery of computing services such as servers, storage, databases, networking, software, and analytics over the internet. Due to its scalability features, the technology allows businesses to lower their operating costs and run their infrastructure more efficiently.
Data breach: This is the deliberate or unintentional exposure of sensitive information of a user or an organization to an unauthorized party. Stolen data may involve financial information such as credit card details, personally identifiable information (PII), protected health information (PHI), and trade secrets.
Distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attack: DDoS attacks are malicious attempts by hackers to disrupt normal traffic of a server or website by flooding it with connection requests. When traffic becomes too much for the system to handle, the system will shut down.
Hacker: This is an individual who uses computer and networking skills to solve a technical problem. While the term may be used for anyone with technical skills, a hacker is now more commonly known as someone gaining unauthorized access to systems in order to steal personal and financial information, take down systems, and hold systems hostage in exchange for ransom.
Internet service provider (ISP): An ISP is a company providing internet connectivity for businesses and individuals. Data may be transmitted using various technologies such as dial-up, DSL, or fiber optic. Some ISPs may offer additional services such as web hosting, landline phones, and email on top of the package being offered.
Keylogger: This is a type of surveillance software that records every keystroke made on a computer. It can capture any information typed using a keyboard, including usernames, passwords, and other PII.
Malware: An umbrella term for any code written with the purpose of causing harm, disclosing information, or violating the security of a computer system. Malware types include viruses, worms, Trojan horses, ransomware, and spyware, among others.
Managed IT services provider (MSP): This is a company specializing in managing a client’s IT infrastructure for a fixed subscription fee, usually lower than an in-house staff’s salary. Acting as an outsourced IT department, MSPs are a cheaper and more reasonable option for small- to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) instead of hiring an in-house team.
Mobile device management (MDM): A type of security software allowing IT administrators to control, secure, and enforce policies on mobile devices like smartphones, tablets, and laptops. MDM is typically used to control access to confidential files and wipe devices if they ever get stolen or lost.
Multifactor authentication (MFA): An authentication method used to verify the identity of a person logging in. This makes use of one-time codes or prompts sent to a smartphone. Even if a hacker acquires a password, their login attempt will still be useless without the code.
Phishing: This is the fraudulent practice of sending emails that claim to be from a legitimate entity (e.g., a trusted individual or known company) in order to acquire login credentials, and steal personal and financial information. To make the email look more authentic, phishing emails typically contain a link that spoof legitimate websites.
Ransomware: This is a type of malware that encrypts the files in a victim’s system and denies access to them unless a ransom is paid. It can be sent through innocuous-looking emails, but can also be found in malicious links and exploit kits.
Software-as-a-Service (SaaS): This is a distribution model that makes computer applications available over the internet than being installed locally. They are paid for as a monthly subscription than a one-time fee. Examples include Google Apps and Office 365.
Virus: A virus is a type of malware that can copy itself and cause data corruption and system failure. It is often attached to legitimate programs or documents in order to execute its code.
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP): A technology that enables voice communications over the internet without the need for a telephone line. VoIP can also include features like video chatting and conferencing.
Are you worried about the implications of technology for your business? F1 Solutions is committed to helping businesses create a strong IT infrastructure and ensuring that their data is protected from any disasters. Call us today to learn more.
