This is a glossary of key vocabulary from networking and cybersecurity, my field of study on the Computer Science program at Montmorency College. There are technical terms, definitions in sentence case, pronunciation audio, French translations and images to help illustrate each concept. This glossary was created to build vocabulary I'll use throughout my studies and future career in IT security.
authentication
noun
Authentication is the process of verifying the identity of a user, device, or the genuineness of a document to prove that it is real.
Example: The app requires two-factor AUTHENTICATION before granting access.
en: authentification
backdoor
noun
A network backdoor is a secret, unauthorized entry point embedded within a computer network or its connected devices that bypasses normal security controls and authentication.
Example: Investigators discovered a hidden BACKDOOR left by the attacker.
en: porte dérobée
bandwidth
noun
The maximum amount of data that can be transferred over an internet or network connection in a specific amount of time.
Example: Streaming video in high quality requires a lot of BANDWIDTH.
en: bande passante
botnet
noun
A botnet is a network of internet-connected devices infected with malware and controlled remotely by a single attacker, known as a bot-herder or botmaster.
Example: The BOTNET was used to launch a massive attack on the website.
en: botnet
breach
noun/verb
A network breach occurs when an unauthorized person or program bypasses security controls to gain entry into a computer network.
Example: The data BREACH exposed thousands of customers' personal information.
en: violation/enfreindre
cybersecurity
noun
Cyber security is the practice of protecting computers, servers, mobile devices, networks, programs, and data from digital attacks, damage, or unauthorized access.
Example: She is studying CYBERSECURITY to learn how to protect computer systems.
en: cybersécurité
encryption
noun
Encryption is the process of converting readable information into a secret code to prevent unauthorized people from reading it.
Example: The message was protected with strong ENCRYPTION so no one could read it.
en: chiffrement
firewall
noun
A network security device or program that monitors, filters, and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined safety rules.
Example: The company's FIREWALL blocked several suspicious connection attempts overnight.
en: pare-feu
firmware
noun
Firmware is a specific type of software permanently or semi-permanently embedded into a hardware device to provide low-level control and basic operating instructions.
Example: The manufacturer released a FIRMWARE update to fix a security flaw.
en: micrologiciel
ip address
noun
An IP Address is a unique string of numbers assigned to every device that connects to the internet or a local network.
Example: Every device connected to the internet has a unique IP ADDRESS.
en: adresse ip
malware
noun
Malware is short for malicious software designed to damage, disrupt, or steal data from computers and networks.
Example: The technician found MALWARE hidden inside a downloaded file.
en: logiciel malveillant
patch
noun/verb
A patch is a small piece of code or material used to fix a flaw, cover a hole, or improve an existing item.
Example: The company released a PATCH to fix the software bug.
en: mise à jour/corriger
phishing
noun
Phishing is a type of cyberattack where scammers trick people into sharing private information or downloading harmful software.
Example: She almost fell for a PHISHING email pretending to be her bank.
en: hameçonnage
protocol
noun
A protocol is an official set of rules or a plan that guides correct behavior, procedures, or communication in a specific setting.
Example: Devices on the network communicate using a shared PROTOCOL.
en: protocole
ransomware
noun
Ransomware is a type of malicious software (malware) that blocks access to a computer system or encrypts a victim's files until a sum of money is paid.
Example: The hospital's systems were locked down by a RANSOMWARE attack.
en: rançongiciel
router
noun
A router is a networking hardware device that connects two or more computer networks and directs data packets between them.
Example: I had to restart the ROUTER because the Wi-Fi kept disconnecting.
en: routeur
server
noun
A server a computer system (hardware or software) that provides data and services to other devices.
Example: The website went down because the SERVER crashed unexpectedly.
en: serveur
switch
noun
A switch is a device or component used to control, direct, or connect circuits, data, or physical elements.
Example: The network SWITCH connects multiple computers within the same office.
en: commutateur
vpn
noun
A VPN stands for a virtual private network, which is a service that creates a secure, encrypted digital connection between your device and the internet.
Example: He used a VPN to access the office network securely from home.
en: vpn
vulnerability
noun
Vulnerability means the state of being open to physical or emotional harm, attack, or damage.
Example: The team patched the VULNERABILITY before hackers could exploit it.
