We’ve compiled a full list of commonly encountered IT terminology that will help you better understand the industry and how it works. By familiarizing yourself with basic computer terms and definitions, you’ll allow yourself to understand manuals, descriptions, and everyday jargon necessary to fully grasp IT products and services.
You’ll find our tech glossary is conveniently laid out below in alphabetical order with an easy navigation interface so you can quickly reference words related to technology.
In addition to our tech terms, you can also find other resources to help you learn more about the role of technology in modern industry, including blogs, whitepapers, and case studies. Though our list of IT terms to know is expansive, if you have any further questions regarding things to know about technology, please contact us.
A Solid State Drive (SSD) is a data storage device that uses flash memory to store data persistently, with no moving mechanical components. Unlike traditional Hard Disk Drives (HDDs), SSDs offer faster read and write speeds, lower latency, and improved durability due to the absence of physical spinning disks. SSDs enhance system performance, leading to quicker boot times, faster file access, and overall more responsive computing experiences, making them a preferred choice in modern computing environments.
Software Defined Networking (SDN) is an innovative network architecture approach that decouples the control plane from the data plane in networking equipment. By abstracting the network control, SDN allows administrators to manage network services through software, enabling dynamic, programmatically efficient network configuration. This results in increased flexibility, scalability, and automation, facilitating rapid deployment of applications and services while reducing operational costs.
A subnet or subnetwork is a segmented piece of a larger network, created by dividing an IP network into smaller, more manageable sections. Subnetting allows organizations to improve network performance and security by isolating groups of hosts, reducing broadcast traffic, and simplifying routing. Each subnet operates within a specified range of IP addresses, enabling efficient IP address allocation and enhancing network administration.
A switch is a networking device that connects devices within a network, using packet switching to forward data to its destination based on MAC addresses. Operating at the data link layer (Layer 2) of the OSI model, switches reduce network congestion by creating separate collision domains for each connected device. They enhance network performance, security, and manageability, making them fundamental components in both small and large-scale network infrastructures.
Spyware is a category of malicious software designed to infiltrate computers without the user’s informed consent. Once installed, it collects personal information, browsing habits, and other data, transmitting it to third parties. Spyware can lead to privacy breaches, identity theft, and system degradation. Protecting against spyware involves using reputable antivirus and anti-spyware programs, keeping software updated, and practicing safe browsing habits.
Spam refers to unsolicited and often bulk messages sent over electronic messaging systems, primarily via email but also through instant messaging, social media, and text messages. These messages are typically promotional in nature but can also be malicious, aiming to phish for personal information or spread malware. Spam consumes network resources, clutters inboxes, and poses security risks. Effective spam filters and user vigilance are essential in mitigating the impact of spam.
A Service Level Agreement (SLA) is a formal contract between a service provider and a client that defines the level of service, performance metrics, and responsibilities expected during the service period. SLAs outline specific benchmarks such as uptime percentages, response times, and support availability, ensuring clarity and accountability. They serve as a critical component in service delivery, helping manage client expectations and providing a framework for measuring service effectiveness.
Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) is a holistic security management approach that combines security information management (SIM) and security event management (SEM) functions into one system. SIEM solutions collect, analyze, and correlate security events from multiple sources in real-time, providing organizations with comprehensive visibility into their IT environment. This enables proactive threat detection, incident response, and compliance reporting, strengthening the organization’s overall security posture.
A Software Development Kit (SDK) is a comprehensive set of software development tools, libraries, documentation, code samples, and APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) that developers use to create applications for specific platforms or frameworks. SDKs simplify the development process by providing pre-built components and standardized processes, enabling developers to build, test, and deploy applications more efficiently. They are essential for developing applications across various operating systems, devices, and programming environments.
A System Administrator (SysAdmin) is an IT professional responsible for managing, overseeing, and maintaining an organization’s computer systems and networks. Duties include installing and configuring hardware and software, monitoring system performance, ensuring security protocols are in place, and troubleshooting technical issues. SysAdmins play a pivotal role in ensuring system reliability, security, and efficiency, directly impacting business continuity and productivity.