Information Technology Glossary
Cloud Storage: files stored on the internet with a cloud storage provider or a dedicated private cloud.
Cloud Computing: on-demand delivery of computer system resources and computing power, often offered through a cloud provider. Services can include servers, storage, databases, networking, software, analytics, intelligence, and more.
Bandwidth: a measurement of the volume of data that can be transmitted over a network at any given time.
IP Address: an Internet Protocol (IP) address is a unique string of numbers assigned to each device connected to a network, including the Internet.
Cyber Attack: an unauthorized attempt to access data or resources from a computer(s) or network(s).
Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS): a type of cloud computing where a cloud provider manages the infrastructure and a business manages the operating system, middleware, software, and applications.
Platform and a Service (PaaS): a type of cloud computing where an organization is provided with a platform over the Internet, often for developing and running apps.
Software as a Service (SaaS): a cloud-based service that delivers software to users over the internet.
Virtual Private Network (VPN): a service that allows you to create a private network while using a public internet connection, providing greater security and privacy.
Application: a program designed for a specific purpose, such as a word processor.
Big Data: Large, complex data sets that are often difficult to manage with traditional data processing software.
Database: An organized collection of structured data typically stored electronically.
Cloud Backup: a service that allows organizations to store data using the internet on an offsite server, often maintained by a cloud provider.
Cloud Migration: the process of moving databases, applications, and other systems from on-premises hardware to the cloud, or from one cloud to another.
Cloud Service Provider: third-party companies that offer businesses cloud services and platforms, such as IaaS, PaaS, SaaS, cloud backup, and more.
Data Center: a facility that centralizes and maintains equipment for businesses to store data and applications.
Colocation: housing privately-owned equipment, such as servers, in a third-party facility.
Private Cloud: cloud computing resources dedicated exclusively to one business or organization. This could be through privately-owned equipment, or through a third-party cloud provider.
Public Cloud: cloud computing resources accessed over the internet that are shared between users.
Hybrid Cloud: a cloud environment that is comprised of different models, such as a private cloud, public cloud, and/or on-premises infrastructure.
Infrastructure: components of IT enterprises. These can include hardware, software, operating systems, and more.
Server: a computer that is responsible for responding to requests made by a client program.
Virtual Machine: a software that emulates and provides the same functionality as physical computers.
Managed Service Provider (MSP): a third-party company that manages and provides enterprise-level IT services.
Middleware: software that bridges the gap between an operating system and software application.
Software: a set of instructions that tell a computer how to work.
Hardware: the physical components and equipment of a computer.
Multi-Cloud: the use of more than one cloud provider to provide various services.
On-Premises: a term used to describe software that is installed and runs on computers housed within an organization’s physical location as opposed to an offsite location.
Firewall: a security device that monitors incoming and outgoing traffic to block and filter traffic to prevent unauthorized agents from gaining access to a network.
Antivirus Software: a type of software program designed to protect computers against malware by detecting and removing viruses.
BYOD: Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) is an organizational technology model that allows employees to bring and use personal devices for work-related activities.