You need to understand many terms and definitions to be a cybersecurity pro. This article will give you a comprehensive overview of some of the most important ones!
Cyber attacks are a common and dangerous threat to both individuals and businesses. They can steal information, destroy data, and sometimes even shut down networks.
Authentication
Authentication is a security process that confirms the identity of a user before allowing access to systems and resources. It protects sensitive information from cybercriminals and ensures that users can only access what they are authorized to see.
Depending on the type of authentication, users may be required to provide a password, security token, or biometric data. A knowledge factor, like a username or password, is the most common authentication method.
A possession factor, such as a key card or access fob, is another standard authentication method. This removes the risk of forgetting passwords and enables users to verify their identities by showing a unique object. However, it requires the user to always keep this object on them. In addition, you need to understand cyber security terms and definitions to protect your data.
Botnet
A botnet is a collection of computers infected with malware controlled remotely by a cybercriminal or malicious group. This network of devices is used to launch Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks, spam targets, and steal critical data.
There are many different types of botnets. They vary in size from a few thousand to millions of connected devices.
Some botnets have a command and control server, while others use peer-to-peer architecture to transfer commands from one infected device to another. Once the central control center can be identified, law enforcement agencies and security vendors work to shut it down.
Malware
Malware, or malicious software, is any program designed to harm computers. It includes viruses, worms, trojan horses, spyware, and other code-based entities.
Computer viruses, worms, and trojans can crash a computer or cause data loss by deleting files and stealing confidential information. They also spread from one system to the next and can use complex anti-detection strategies to evade detection by antivirus programs.
Malware is a versatile threat with many different types, each with a specific purpose. Whether it’s sending spam, making money (e.g., ransomware), demonstrating vulnerabilities, sabotaging services, or exploring cybersecurity issues, malware is a tool of choice for most threat actors.
Malicious Software
Malicious software is a term that refers to a variety of computer programs that are designed to infect or damage a device. They include viruses, worms, Trojan horses, ransomware, and spyware.
Cybercriminals use malicious software to compromise the security and privacy of computers and networks. They can access sensitive data, extort money or steal identity information.
A virus is a malware that replicates itself and spreads from one file to another on a device. It can also slow down a system or cause data loss.
Worms are another type of malware that replicates itself and spreads across a network. They don’t need a host program to disperse; they can infect a device through a download or network connection. This malware permits cybercriminals to control a device remotely and stay on the system for an extended period.
Penetration Testing
A penetration test, or pen test, is a form of cyber security testing that simulates a real-world attack. The goal is to identify and mitigate weaknesses that could lead to a breach of sensitive information or unauthorized access to systems and networks.
Penetration tests are essential to maintaining compliance with regulatory standards, such as PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard) and GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation). They also help organizations stay up-to-date with new cyber threats.
The first phase of a penetration test is a survey, which involves enumerating the target network to find vulnerable systems and accounts. This can include scanning each system for open ports and checking network traffic.
Patch Management
Patch management updates software, drivers, and firmware to protect against vulnerabilities. This can help your organization avoid data breaches and improve system performance, boosting employee productivity.
Patches are small installation packages that fix bugs in software, making it more secure and reliable. They can also prevent systems from crashing or hanging.
When new vulnerabilities are discovered, applying patches as soon as possible is essential. These patches can help your organization avoid data breaches and protect your network from malware.
A good patch management policy must be in place to ensure that security teams know what to do when they find a vulnerability that needs to be fixed. It should include a timeline and priority levels to help them make the right decisions.
Vulnerability Assessment
Vulnerability assessment is a critical security process that helps organizations identify vulnerabilities in their systems, networks, and hardware. It lets them detect potential breaches and prevent hacking attacks on their data and network infrastructure.
This process can also be part of an organization’s risk assessment process. It involves scanning system and network vulnerabilities using various tools, scanners, and methodologies.
The first step in a vulnerability assessment is to identify and classify vulnerabilities. This can be done manually or with automated scans.
Next, security analysts conduct a detailed analysis of the identified vulnerabilities. This analysis identifies the system components responsible for each exposure and their root cause. It’s then up to close any security gaps. This includes introducing new cybersecurity measures, procedures, or tools; updating configuration and operational changes; developing and implementing patches for vulnerable systems; and more.