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As a business owner, you might sometimes feel like IT experts are speaking a different language. We get it. Tech terms seem to keep getting crazier and more complex. The tech world is continuously advancing and these innovations tend to cause confusion and even overwhelming worries.
It’s time to wave goodbye to those worries. At ITinspired, we’re here to translate the geek-speak into plain English and decode some of the most common IT terms that are essential to understanding your tech infrastructure.
Cloud Computing
These days, clouds involve more than the weather. Cloud computing is a generalized term that describes software and services that use the Internet to store, manage and process data. For instance, imagine storing all your files and applications not on your computer’s hard drive but in an omnipresent digital “cloud,” where they’re safe, sound and easily accessible – that’s cloud computing.
Firewall
A firewall acts as an invisible force field that shields your IT infrastructure, keeping it secure from digital dangers. As a security device, a firewall decides who gets in and who stays out of your network, keeping the undesirables (like hackers and viruses) at bay.
Malware
Beware of malware, aka malicious software. Malware refers to any intrusive software designed to harm your systems or steal your data. Developed by cybercriminals, malware is a common weapon used by hackers to cause serious havoc. Examples of malware include viruses, worms, spyware and ransomware.
Phishing
Phishing – another very common digital danger to avoid. Phishing is a deceptive practice where scammers send emails or texts that mimic legitimate sources to steal sensitive information. These phony emails provide cybercriminals with an efficient and effective method of stealing passwords, banking information and other vital data. Always double-check before you bite that bait!
VPN (Virtual Private Network)
Imagine a secret tunnel through the internet from your computer to a server far away. That’s what a VPN is! It’s your private passageway that keeps your online activities safe from prying eyes, perfect for when you’re using public Wi-Fi.
VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol)
Think of VoIP as your phone line but over the internet. It lets you make voice calls not through traditional phone lines but via the Internet.
SSD (Solid State Drive)
An SSD is a type of storage device that’s faster than the old-school hard drives.
IoT (Internet of Things)
IoT refers to everyday objects that are connected to the Internet, from smart thermostats to refrigerators that remind you to pick up more milk. It’s like everything in your office or home got a brain upgrade and started talking to each other!
Big Data
You’ve probably heard this term thrown around before, but simply put it refers to large sets of data that rapidly grows over time. In fact, this type of data is so huge and complex that traditional data-processing applications can’t process it.
SaaS (Software as a Service)
SaaS allows you to use software on a subscription basis (pay as you go) through an app or the web, instead of purchasing upfront. It’s like renting an apartment instead of buying – it’s less commitment and maintenance.
With these terms in your back pocket, you’ll be navigating tech conversations like a pro! Remember, understanding IT isn’t just for the techies – it’s crucial for any business owner looking to thrive in today’s digital world.
At ITinspired, we’re always here to help you translate the tech talk into strategies that benefit your business. Let’s make IT work for you, not against you! See how we can take the IT burden off your business and employees as your managed services partner.