Specific Digital Threats: Technology Management Flashcards

Comprehensive vocabulary terms and definitions covering IT infrastructure, hardware, software, networking, security, and professional roles based on Foundation of IT Management lecture notes.

IT Infrastructure

The basic framework of computer systems a business needs to work, consisting of hardware, software, networks, and data.

Information Systems

The full set of tools and practices a company uses to run tasks, formed by adding people and processes to the IT infrastructure.

CPU (Central Processing Unit)

The brain of the computer that decides what to do.

RAM (Random Access Memory)

Short-term memory that the CPU uses while performing tasks; data is lost when the computer is turned off.

Motherboard

The big central board into which all computer parts plug.

Network Interface Card (NIC)

A hardware component that lets a computer talk to other computers over a network; it contains a unique 48-bit MAC address.

Application Software

Tools chosen for specific jobs by a user, such as Microsoft Word or Excel.

System Software

The backbone software, like Windows or MacOS, that schedules tasks and ensures applications run smoothly.

Utility Software

Behind-the-scenes helpers like antivirus programs and printer drivers that handle specialized background chores.

Nodes

The devices on a network that send and receive information, such as laptops, smartphones, and servers.

CRM (Customer Relationship Management)

A system used to store and manage notes and data about customers.

End Users

The people who use hardware, software, networks, and databases daily to perform business tasks.

Best Practice

The smarter, most effective method a company uses to reach a desired result compared to any other approach.

Moore's Law

An observation by Gordon Moore in 1965 stating that computing power tends to double about every 18 months.

Early Adopters

Organizations that buy new technology as soon as it is released to gain a competitive edge.

Mainframe Computers

Extremely powerful, room-sized machines designed for large-scale transaction processing and mission-critical applications.

Midrange Computers

Smaller systems designed to handle business applications and transaction processing for small to medium-sized organizations.

Microcomputers

The smallest category of computers, including desktops, laptops, tablets, and handheld devices, used for everyday tasks.

Cache

A type of high-speed memory that places the most-used data close at hand for the CPU.

Virtual Memory

Backup space on the disk drive used when RAM becomes too full.

Multitasking

The ability of an operating system to manage multiple processes simultaneously.

Database Table

An organized structure where data is stored in records (rows) and fields (columns).

Query

A question asked of a database to turn raw data into useful information.

GUI (Graphical User Interface)

Visual elements like ribbons, menus, and icons that allow users to interact with software easily.

Object Linking

A method of sharing data where a linked object updates automatically in the destination file when the source file changes.

Cybersecurity

The convergence of people, processes, and technology to protect networks, devices, and data from unauthorized access.

LAN (Local Area Network)

A small network serving a single building, office floor, or room.

WAN (Wide Area Network)

A network that expands over long distances, often using a telecom provider's backbone.

Network Protocol

A set of agreed-upon rules, such as TCP/IP, that devices follow to communicate and share data safely.

Network Operating System (NOS)

Software that acts as air traffic control to route data, handle backups, and manage network security.

Bus Topology

A network layout where all nodes are connected to a single main road or cable.

Star Topology

A network layout where every computer talks through a single central hub or switch.

Firewall

A combination of hardware and software that acts as a bouncer to keep unauthorized users out of a network.

KMS (Knowledge Management System)

An organized system used to create, organize, and share a company's collective knowledge and best practices.

Worm

A type of malware that wiggles through a network on its own to spread chaos.

Ransomware

A digital hijacker that locks up data and demands payment to release it.

Trojan Horse

A program that looks harmless but contains hidden malicious surprises.

Denial of Service (DoS)

An attack where a flood of fake customers or data crashes a system, blocking real users from getting through.

Gantt Chart

A real-time visual scoreboard used in project management to show who is doing what and when.

CIO (Chief Information Officer)

A managerial IT professional who focuses on big-picture internal strategy and aligning tech with business goals.

CTO (Chief Technology Officer)

An IT leader who focuses on external customers and using technology to improve products and boost revenue.

CISO (Chief Information Security Officer)

The cyber bodyguard focused on protecting data and fighting off hackers.

Database Administrator

A technical IT professional responsible for organizing, securing, and backing up important data.

Full-Stack Developer

A developer who handles both the front-end (user interface) and the back-end (machinery) of a website or application.

IT Architect

The master planner who designs blueprints for how IT systems and applications fit together for future growth.