Explore our comprehensive Cybersecurity Glossary to understand key terms and concepts. Stay informed about the latest industry terminology.
An actuator is a device that initiates a response to a detected event. In cybersecurity, this event is typically a potential threat or vulnerability.
Advanced systems format (ASF) is a digital audio/digital video container format, especially designed for streaming media.
Algorithms are everywhere in our digital lives, powering the apps and services we use, the websites we visit, and the devices we rely on.
The term annotation refers to the process of adding notes or comments to a piece of information, code, or data to provide additional context.
The Arduino is a versatile and popular open-source electronics platform that is widely used in the field of cybersecurity.
The term asynchronous refers to operations that do not happen simultaneously or in a pre-defined order allowing for greater flexibility and efficiency.
In the context of digital communication, attenuation refers to the loss of data signal strength during transmission.
The backslash, also known as a reverse solidus or simply as a slash, is a symbol used in computing for various purposes.
Bespoke software, also known as custom software, is a type of software that is specifically designed and developed for a particular user or organization.
The Boltzmann constant, often denoted by the symbol k or kB, is a fundamental physical constant that plays a pivotal role in the field of statistical mechanics.
The Borland Database Engine (BDE) is a database engine that provides a uniform interface to access different databases in a network.
Brute force attacks in cybersecurity
A brute force attack is a password-guessing game by hackers, aiming to break into accounts or systems. It’s simple but remains a serious cybersecurity threat.
The term cache is derived from French, meaning 'to hide' or 'hidden', which is quite fitting considering its role in the digital world.
CAPTCHA Advantages: Understanding the benefits
Discover how CAPTCHA enhances website security and user experience by distinguishing between humans and bots. Learn its key benefits.
The Central Processing Unit (CPU), often referred to as the "brain" of a computer, is a critical component of any computing device.
Characterization, in the context of cybersecurity, is a critical process that involves the identification, classification and description.
A chatbot is a software application designed to interact with humans in their natural languages through internet-based applications.
Chief Technology Officer (CTO)
The Chief Technology Officer (CTO) is a pivotal role in any organization, particularly in terms of cybersecurity.
Chrome extensions are small software programs that enable users to tailor Chrome functionality and behavior to individual needs or preferences.
A circuit, in the context of computing and electronics, refers to a path or a closed loop through which an electric current can flow.
Communication streaming architecture
Communication streaming architecture refers to the design and implementation of systems that facilitate the real-time transmission of data.
The term compile refers to the process of converting source code, written by humans in high-level programming languages, into machine code.
To maintain high standards, it's crucial to ensure that our business practices consistently align with relevant laws and regulations.
CompuServe, a pioneering online service provider, played a significant role in the early development of the internet.
Computer numerical control (CNC)
Computer Numerical Control (CNC) is a technology that uses computers to control and operate machines, which was first introduced in the 1940s and 1950s.
In the context of computer science and cybersecurity, concatenation is a fundamental operation that involves combining two strings end-to-end.
Concurrent use refers to the simultaneous access or operation of a system, application, or data by multiple users.
Confidentiality in cybersecurity
Explore the risks and consequences of unauthorized disclosure of sensitive personal data. Learn how to protect your information effectively.
The term convergence refers to the integration of various systems, technologies, and practices into a unified whole.
Creeper Virus: Origins and Impact
Explore the origins and significance of the Creeper virus, the first computer virus, and its influence on cybersecurity. Read more to understand its impact.
Cricket phones: A comprehensive guide
Cricket phones are part of the Cricket Wireless service, a subsidiary of AT&T Inc., which provides prepaid mobile voice, text, and data services.
Cryptography is a method of protecting information by transforming it (encrypting it) into an unreadable format.
Learn essential steps to prevent data breaches and protect your business's sensitive information. Read our article to strengthen your security today.
Data Manipulation Language, commonly referred to as DML, is a subset of SQL (Structured Query Language) used for managing data in relational databases.
The term decoupled refers to a system design principle where different components of a system are separated or 'decoupled' from each other.
Deep artificial language learning engine (DALL-E)
DALL-E revolutionizes content creation for businesses by transforming text descriptions into unique and relevant images seamlessly
The default gateway is a key player in ensuring that data is transmitted and received accurately and efficiently across networks.
Definition of firewall: It's role in cybersecurity
Explore the vital role of firewalls in today’s cybersecurity landscape, safeguarding networks from threats. Read the blog for insights and evaluations.
The term demarcation point refers to the physical point at which a telecommunications provider's network ends and the user's network begins.
The term DMZ or Demilitarized Zone refers to a physical or logical subnetwork that separates an organizations internal networks.
Digital Rights Management: A guide for users
Discover the essentials of digital rights management (DRM) and how it protects your digital content. Learn to navigate DRM effectively. Read more now.
DSL provides high-speed internet over traditional telephone lines for quick connectivity.
Direct Messages, or DMs, are private conversations that occur on social media platforms. Unlike public posts, DMs are only visible to the recipient.
DisplayPort is a digital display interface primarily used to connect a video source to a display device, such as a computer monitor.
Distributed denial of service (DDoS)
A Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attack is a malicious activity in which a network of compromised computers disrupts services.
A dongle is a small piece of hardware that connects to a computer to provide it with additional functionality.
Doxing in Cyber Security: A Full Guide
Explore the risks of doxing in cyber security and discover essential prevention tips to protect your personal information. Read more to stay safe online.
Electronic Data Capture (EDC) is a system designed for the collection of clinical data in electronic format for use mainly in human clinical trials.
Emulation is a technique that replicates the behavior of a system or a component, allowing for the testing and analysis.
Encoding is a process that transforms data into a format that can be easily understood by different systems and devices.
End-user computing (EUC): A complete glossary
Discover how to enhance user efficiency and safety with essential EUC software strategies. Read the guide to learn more about end-user computing experience.
Enterprise data management (EDM)
Enterprise Data Management (EDM) refers to the ability to precisely define and effectively retrieve data for both internal applications and external systems.
The term entity refers to an identifiable and distinct unit within the digital landscape, which can be a user, system or device.
Ephemeral ports, also known as dynamic ports, are temporary, short-lived ports that are assigned automatically by a device's operating system.
Example of Uniform Resource Locator: A Clear Guide
Learn about Uniform Resource Locators (URLs) and how they function as web addresses to access online resources. Read the full guide to understand better.
An exception, in the context of programming, is an event that occurs during the execution of a program that disrupts the normal flow of instructions.
The XOR gate is a fundamental building block in many digital systems and is used in a variety of applications, including arithmetic operations.
The fail whale is a term that refers to the image that was displayed when Twitter's servers were overloaded and unable to handle user requests.
File Transfer Protocol: Benefits and Applications
Explore the benefits and applications of File Transfer Protocol (FTP) for efficient file sharing over the internet. Read more to enhance your understanding.
Firmware is the essential software permanently embedded in your device's hardware, ensuring it functions correctly and efficiently.
The term FPS often refers to frames per second. This is a measure of how many distinct images a computer or console can display in one second.
The term functional specification refers to a comprehensive document that outlines the system's capabilities, appearance, and interactions with users.
GLib is a low-level core library that forms the basis of GTK+ and GNOME. It provides data structure handling for C and portability wrappers.
Discover how granularity enhances cybersecurity by providing detailed control, precise visibility, and effective threat response through finely segmented data.
Guide to Certified Authorization Professional
Master the Certified Authorization Professional (CAP) exam with our practical guide. Enhance your skills in risk management and advance your career today!
Hackers exploit system vulnerabilities for various reasons, ranging from malicious intent to ethical, beneficial purposes.
The term 'haptic' refers to a technology that recreates the sense of touch by applying forces, vibrations, or motions to the user.
At its core, hashing is about transforming data of any size into a fixed size. The output, known as a hash, is a string of characters.
A hotspot refers to a physical location where people can access the internet, typically using Wi-Fi, via a wireless local area network (WLAN) with a router.
Hyperlinks are a fundamental component of the World Wide Web, as they connect different web pages and create a network of information.
The term immutable type refers to an object whose state cannot be modified. In other words, once an object is instantiated, its value remains constant.
Inference is a method used by both cybersecurity professionals and malicious actors to understand and predict patterns.
Information and communication technology (ICT)
Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is a broad term that encompasses all technologies used to handle telecommunications and broadcast media.
Instant messaging (IM) is a type of online chat that offers real-time text transmission over the internet from one device to another.
The term instantiate a term that is often used in the context of creating an instance of a class in object-oriented programming.
Internet Protocol Address: A Comprehensive Guide
Learn what an Internet Protocol (IP) address is, how it identifies devices online, and its role in data transmission. Read the comprehensive guide now.
Internet protocol television (IPTV)
Internet Protocol Television, commonly referred to as IPTV, is a system through which television services are delivered using the Internet protocol suite.
The term interweb is a portmanteau of "internet" and "web", often used humorously or sarcastically to refer to the World Wide Web.
The term intranet refers to a private network that is confined within an organization. This network is used to share information among employees.
Iteration, in the most basic sense, refers to the process of repeating a set of operations or procedures until a specific condition is met.
Jailbreak your device to unleash its full potential, breaking free from manufacturer restrictions and gaining control.
Java Foundation Classes (JFC) is a graphical user interface (GUI) framework for Java, developed by Sun Microsystems.
The joule is a unit of energy in the International System of Units. It's named after James Prescott Joule, a British physicist.
Kali Linux: Insights and Recent Developments
Discover how Kali Linux, an open-source, Debian-based Linux distribution, can help tackle critical information security tasks. Explore the glossary now.
Kerning refers to the process of adjusting the spacing between characters in a proportional font. It is a crucial aspect of creating readable text.
A key fob, in the context of cybersecurity, is a small hardware device with built-in authentication mechanisms.
Keylogger: What It Means in Cybersecurity
A keylogger, in its simplest form, is a type of surveillance technology used to monitor and record each keystroke made on a computer keyboard.
A killswitch is a mechanism designed to shut down or disable a system or software in the event of an emergency or security breach.
Knowledge management system (KMS)
A knowledge management system (KMS) is a crucial tool that aids in the collection, organization, and retrieval of knowledge to protect digital assets.
In the simplest terms, latency refers to a delay (network congestion) that occurs in data communication over a network.
A legacy system is any software, hardware, or technology that is outdated but still in use. These systems were often cutting-edge when they were implemented.
Malicious: Prevention and Mitigation Strategies
Explore effective prevention and mitigation strategies against malicious actions. Learn how to safeguard your systems today. Read the article for insights.
The Markov Decision Process (MDP) is a mathematical model used in decision making where the outcomes are partly random and partly under control.
Microsoft Access is a database management system (DBMS) from Microsoft that combines the relational Microsoft Jet Database Engine with a user interface.
A modem is a hardware device that converts data into a format suitable for a transmission medium so it can be transmitted from one computer to another.
Monikers play a crucial role in cybercrime. Cybercriminals often use monikers to maintain anonymity and avoid being traced.
A network, in its simplest form, is a group of interconnected computers or devices that can exchange data and communicate with each other.
Network throttling, a term frequently used in the realm of cybersecurity, refers to the intentional slowing down of internet speed or data transfers.
Non-volatile memory is a type of computer memory that retains its information even when the system is powered off.
The term 'Not Safe For Work', often abbreviated as NSFW, is a common term used in the realm of internet culture and digital communication.
Nslookup: A Full Guide for DNS Troubleshooting
Discover how to effectively use nslookup for DNS troubleshooting. Learn commands, techniques, and tips to resolve network issues. Read the article now!
The term obsolete refers to technologies, systems, or practices that are no longer in use or have been replaced by newer, more efficient alternatives.
On-premises software, often referred to as on-prem, is a type of software delivery model that is installed and operated from a customer's in-house server.
One Time Password OTP: Benefits and Uses Explained
Discover the benefits and uses of one-time passwords (OTPs) for secure authentication. Learn how they enhance online security. Read the article now!
OpenDNS: A Comprehensive Guide
Enhance your network security with OpenDNS. Discover how to protect against threats and filter content effectively in this comprehensive guide. Read more.
The term pages per minute is typically used in the context of printers. It refers to the number of pages that these devices can print or scan in one minute.
A Passive Optical Network (PON) is a telecommunications technology that uses point-to-multipoint fiber to the premises that use unpowered optical splitters.
Protect your digital assets with a strong passkey, which can be your first line of defense against hackers - if you follow best practices.
Persistence in Cybersecurity: A Full Guide
The term persistence refers to the ability of a threat actor, such as a hacker, to maintain access to a compromised system even after initial infiltration.
Personal digital assistant (PDA)
A personal digital assistant (PDA), also known as a handheld PC, is a mobile device that functions as a personal information manager.
The term Petabyte represents a colossal amount of information, a volume so vast that it can be difficult to fully comprehend.
Piracy refers to the unauthorized use or reproduction of another's work, often in the form of software, digital media, or intellectual property.
Bypass geo-restrictions and access restricted content with a pirate proxy server, unlocking a world of possibilities.
PirateBay: The Pirate Bay (TPB)
The Pirate Bay, often abbreviated as TPB, is a well-known online index of digital content that allows users to search, download, and contribute torrent files.
POC: Proof of Concept in Cyber Security
The term Proof of Concept is often used in various fields such as software development, business development, and Cybersecurity.
At its most basic, a POS system is where a business transaction takes place. It's where the exchange of goods or services for money occurs.
Postscript is a programming language that has been used for decades to describe the appearance of a printed page.
Precedence refers to the order in which operations are performed, particularly in the context of computer programming and network protocols.
Project management office (PMO)
The Project Management Office (PMO) is a crucial component of any organization that undertakes multiple, complex projects.
Proprietary software, a term that is often thrown around in discussions about software development, licensing, and usage.
Protocol TCP: A Guide to Its Functionality
Explore how Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) ensures reliable data transmission over networks. Learn about its functionality and importance. Read more!
Provisioning refers to the process of setting up IT infrastructure. It involves the allocation of resources, preparing and equipping a network.
A proxy, in its most basic form, is a server that acts as an intermediary for requests from clients seeking resources from other servers.
Safeguard your online identity by opting for a pseudonym rather than using your real name, ensuring your privacy and security.
At its core, a query is a request for information. In the context of a database, a query is a command that is used to retrieve data from the database.
The term queue refers to a type of data structure where elements are kept in order and the operations of addition and removal are performed at different ends.
A QR code, or Quick Response code, is a type of two-dimensional barcode that can be read using smartphones and other devices.
QuillBot is a paraphrasing tool, a product of artificial intelligence and natural language processing, designed to rewrite or rephrase sentences.
The term range is a concept that permeates various aspects of the field, from network security to data encryption.
Ransomware Glossary: Key terms and definition
Explore key terms and definitions related to ransomware, from attacks to payments, to better understand this growing threat. Read the full glossary now.
Redaction is a process that involves the careful editing or censoring of sensitive information from documents or digital files.
Redundancy is a strategy that involves the duplication of critical components or functions of a system with the intention of increasing reliability.
A request for proposal (RFP) is a document that an organization posts to elicit bids from potential vendors for a product or service.
Resource reservation protocol (RSVP)
The Resource Reservation Protocol (RSVP) is a transport layer protocol designed to reserve resources across a network for an integrated services Internet.
Rooting: Pros, Cons, and Security Risks
Explore the differences between rooting and jailbreaking, including their pros, cons, and potential security risks. Read more to make an informed choice.
The role of a Scrum Master is a multifaceted and dynamic role, serving as a guardian of the agile principles in the SCRUM framework.
Secure Server: Everything you need to know
Securely store and share data with servers using robust encryption and security protocols. Explore how these servers keep your information safe!
Semantics refers to the study of meaning in language, but in the context of cybersecurity, it is often used to describe the meaning and interpretation of data.
Service set identifier is the name assigned to a wireless network, which allows devices to distinguish one network from another.
The acronym SMH stands for 'shaking my head'. It originated in the early days of internet chat rooms and online forums.
The term spam in the context of digital communications originated from a 1970s Monty Python sketch called Flying Circus about a canned meat product.
The term 'spectrum crunch' refers to the potential lack of sufficient wireless frequency spectrum or bandwidth to handle the increasing number of devices.
Speech synthesis, also known as text-to-speech (TTS), is a technology that converts written text into audible speech.
Spooling, an acronym for Simultaneous Peripheral Operations Online, is a computing process that manages data by placing it into a buffer.
The term tautology originates from the field of logic, where it is used to describe a statement that is always true.
Static random access memory (SRAM)
Static Random Access Memory, often abbreviated as SRAM, is a type of semiconductor memory that uses bistable latching circuitry to store each bit.
Surface-mount devices (SMDs) are a type of electronic component that is mounted directly onto the surface of printed circuit boards (PCBs).
A surge protector, also known as a surge suppressor or surge diverter, is a device that protects electronic equipment from sudden increases in electric power.
Syllogism, a term rooted in classical logic, is a form of reasoning in which a conclusion is drawn from two given or assumed propositions (premises).
TLDR, an acronym for "Too Long; Didn't Read", is a common internet slang used to summarize lengthy content on the internet.
Transient in cybersecurity: a key concept in system flexibility and security vulnerability. Essential for professionals.
Trojan horse: Risks, Types, and Protection
Explore the risks and types of Trojan horses, how they operate, and effective protection strategies to safeguard your devices. Read more to stay secure.
The term truncate refers to the process of reducing the size of data to save space, improve efficiency or protect sensitive information.
Tweaking, in the context of cybersecurity, is a term that refers to the process of making fine adjustments to systems or software.
Ubiquitous computing is a concept in software engineering and computer science where computing is made to appear anytime and everywhere.
Understanding Disjunctive Normal Form (DNF)
The Disjunctive Normal Form (DNF) is a standard way of representing logical formulas in a simplified and standardized form.
Understanding Telemetry Data Definition
Explore the definition and key applications of telemetry data, learning how it measures remote metrics for better insights. Read the article to learn more.
Understanding the Cryptographic Nonce
Explore the vital role of the cryptographic nonce in securing communications against attacks. Learn its applications and significance in technology today.
Explore the dark web's hidden corners, its risks, and essential information on safe access. Discover what lies beneath the surface—read the article now.
Understanding the Network Block Device
A Network Block Device (NBD) is a client-server protocol that lets you access a hard disk or partition over a network. Read our guide to learn more.
Understanding the Role of the Non Player Character
Explore the significance of non-player characters (NPCs) in gaming and life, and understand their impact on interaction and narrative.
The term Value-Added Service (VAS) refers to an additional service provided by a cybersecurity firm that enhances the value of their core offerings.
At its core, a vanity domain is a unique, personalized web address that serves as an online identifier for a person, business, or organization.
The VGA cable was first introduced in 1987 by IBM. It was designed to transmit analog video data from a computer to a monitor.
Virtual channel identifier (VCI)
The Virtual Channel Identifier (VCI) is a unique identifier that facilitates the movement of data across virtual channels in a network.
Virtual Private Network: A guide for users
Learn what a virtual private network (VPN) is, how it enhances online security, and why it matters for your internet privacy. Read more to stay informed.
Visitor location register (VLR)
A Visitor Location Register (VLR) is a database used within mobile communication systems, such as the Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM).
VMware is a subsidiary of Dell Technologies, that provides cloud computing and virtualization software and services.
The term volatile is a term that is often used to describe a type of data storage that loses its content when the power is turned off.
Web crawler: Everything you need to know
A web crawler is an internet bot that systematically browses the World Wide Web, typically for the purpose of web indexing.
Explore the types of botnets and their effects on cybersecurity. Learn how they operate and the risks they pose. Read the article for essential insights.
Credentials refers to the proof of identity that a user presents when attempting to access a system or network.
What Is a Hackathon? Key Insights
Discover what a hackathon is, its key insights, and essential benefits for participants and organizations. Read on to learn how to maximize your experience!
Learn what a security breach is, the risks it poses, and effective prevention strategies to protect your data. Read the article for essential insights.
With the rise of social media and dating on the internet over the last decade, catfishing has become more common than ever.
What is Domain Name System: A Comprehensive Guide
Discover the essential role of the Domain Name System (DNS) in translating domain names to IP addresses. Learn how it powers the internet—read more.
What is honeypot in cybersecurity?
Discover how honeypots serve as vital tools in cybersecurity, luring attackers to protect valuable assets. Learn their purpose and benefits in our blog.
Explore Single Sign-On (SSO), including its benefits, implementation strategies, and potential challenges. Read the article to understand the full impact.
Spoofing, in the context of cybersecurity, is a malicious practice where an attacker disguises communication or data so it appears to be from a trusted source.
What is Stuxnet? Explore how Stuxnet spread
Explore how Stuxnet spread through infected USB drives, bypassing security measures. Understand its infection methods and the risks involved. Read more.
What is swatting: A comprehensive guide
Swatting is a dangerous and illegal practice that has emerged in the digital age, primarily within the online gaming community.
Windows Live Mail (now Outlook.com) is an email client developed by Microsoft as part of its Windows Essentials 2012 suite.
A wireless access point (WAP) is a networking device that allows Wi-Fi devices to connect to a wired network as a standalone device.
Wireless fidelity, commonly known as Wi-Fi, is a technology that allows devices such as computers and other digital devices to connect to the internet.
Zerg Rush: Definition, origins, and impact
Learn effective strategies to counter the Zerg Rush in real-time games. Boost your gameplay and survive overwhelming attacks.