Understanding the jargon

Factsheet: Security jargon buster

Firewall

A firewall is essentially an electronic barrier that sits on a network server and protects the PCs hidden behind. It serves as a defence against external threats by screening all incoming information against a number of set rules to ensure it comes from a secure source. Firewalls cost anything from about £30 for a boxed product and from £250 for an installed solution. They can also be paid for on a monthly basis with the supplier providing regular upgrades. Firewalls can be purchased online or from IT specialist outlets and systems integrators.

Hackers

A commonly used term for people who gain illegal access to data held on IT systems either on the premises or via telephone connections. Often only applied to outsiders, the biggest threat can actually come from within an organisation. There are a whole raft of procedures that can be put in place to curb this type of threat, ranging from increased password protection and firewalls to network management controls.

JavaScript

This is a programming language which virus writers and hackers may use as the basis for their programs.

Trojan

Like the Trojan horse in the Greek tragedies, this is a program that may look harmless on the outside but in fact can do real damage if you let it into your system. Most anti-virus vendors offer solutions that can protect against this sort of virus.

Spyware

Spyware, as the name suggests, it is software that covertly gathers user information. This can be either used for advertising or malicious purposes. Spyware applications are typically bundled as a hidden component of freeware or shareware programs and downloaded. Once installed, the spyware monitors user activity on the internet and transmits that information in the background to someone else.

Virus

Viruses aren’t necessarily destructive, but they are the most likely kind of attack. The definition of a virus is a program that reproduces itself. However, many do carry destructive payloads too. Viruses can enter a PC or network from disks or via the internet and email systems. There are a number of vendors offering anti-virus solutions that should be used to check every file/disk that comes into your business. In essence, even the most basic security should include an anti-virus solution.

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