The Cybersecurity Terminology Cheat Sheet for Beginners
As cyber threats continue to grow in both frequency and complexity, understanding basic cybersecurity terms has become essential for everyone—from students and working professionals to business owners. Whether you're a complete beginner or someone interested in a Cyber Security Part time Course in Kolkata, this cheat sheet will help you build a solid foundation in the language of digital defense.
Cybersecurity may seem intimidating at first, but once you break down the jargon, it becomes much easier to understand. This guide simplifies the most commonly used cybersecurity terms so that anyone, regardless of technical background, can follow along.
1. Malware
Malware stands for malicious software. It is a general term for any software designed to harm, exploit, or otherwise compromise a computer system. Common types of malware include:
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Viruses: Attach themselves to files and replicate.
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Worms: Spread independently across networks.
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Trojans: Disguised as legitimate software but contain harmful code.
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Ransomware: Locks your files and demands payment for access.
2. Phishing
Phishing is a form of cyber-attack where attackers impersonate trustworthy sources—often through email—to trick people into revealing sensitive information like passwords or credit card numbers. If you've ever received a fake email that looks like it’s from your bank asking you to “verify your account,” that’s phishing.
3. Firewall
A firewall acts as a security guard between your computer and the internet. It monitors incoming and outgoing traffic and decides whether to allow or block specific traffic based on predefined security rules.
There are two types:
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Hardware Firewalls: Physical devices used in networks.
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Software Firewalls: Programs installed on computers.
4. Encryption
Encryption is the process of converting readable data into a coded format, making it unreadable to unauthorized users. Only those with the decryption key can access the original information.
Think of it like locking your data in a safe—only people with the key (or password) can unlock it.
5. Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
2FA adds an extra layer of protection beyond just a username and password. After entering your password, you might receive a code on your phone or be asked to scan your fingerprint. Even if a hacker gets your password, they still can’t access your account without this second verification step.
6. VPN (Virtual Private Network)
A VPN creates a secure tunnel between your device and the internet. It masks your IP address and encrypts your internet activity, making it difficult for hackers, ISPs, or even governments to track your online behavior.
7. Social Engineering
This is a method used by attackers to manipulate people into giving away confidential information. Rather than breaking into systems, they exploit human psychology—like pretending to be tech support or a company executive.
8. Zero-Day Vulnerability
A zero-day is a newly discovered security flaw in software or hardware that developers haven’t patched yet. Since there's no fix, hackers rush to exploit it before the software vendor issues a security update.
9. Penetration Testing
Also known as pen testing, this is a simulated cyberattack used to identify vulnerabilities in a system. Security experts use the same tools and techniques as hackers to find weak spots before malicious actors do.
This is one of the core topics covered in any ethical hacking course in Kolkata, where learners are trained to think like hackers—so they can protect systems from real ones.
10. Antivirus Software
Antivirus programs are designed to detect, prevent, and remove malware. Modern antivirus tools also protect against spyware, phishing attempts, and ransomware.
11. Brute Force Attack
In a brute force attack, a hacker uses automated tools to guess a password by trying every possible combination. This is why using strong, complex passwords is essential.
12. Botnet
A botnet is a group of infected computers controlled by a single attacker. These "zombie" computers are often used to launch large-scale attacks, such as Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS) attacks.
13. DDoS Attack
A Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS) attack overwhelms a system, server, or network with traffic to make it unavailable to users. It's like hundreds of people trying to walk through a single doorway at once—nothing gets through.
14. Spyware
Spyware secretly monitors your computer activities and sends the information to a third party. It can track everything from browsing habits to login credentials.
15. Patch Management
When a software vendor discovers a security flaw, they release an update or "patch" to fix it. Patch management refers to the process of applying these updates promptly to prevent cyberattacks.
16. White Hat, Black Hat, and Grey Hat Hackers
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White Hat Hackers: Ethical professionals who help organizations find and fix security flaws.
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Black Hat Hackers: Criminals who exploit vulnerabilities for personal gain.
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Grey Hat Hackers: Operate in between—often identifying flaws without permission but not necessarily exploiting them.
17. Cyber Hygiene
Cyber hygiene refers to regular practices and steps users take to maintain system health and improve security. It includes:
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Updating software regularly
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Using strong passwords
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Avoiding suspicious links
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Backing up important data
18. IoT Security
The Internet of Things (IoT) includes smart devices like thermostats, cameras, and voice assistants. Each connected device can be a potential entry point for hackers, which is why securing IoT devices is critical.
19. Access Control
Access control determines who can access specific data or systems. It ensures that only authorized users can view or modify certain information.
Types include:
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Role-Based Access Control (RBAC)
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Mandatory Access Control (MAC)
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Discretionary Access Control (DAC)
20. Cybersecurity Frameworks
These are structured sets of guidelines and best practices designed to help organizations manage cybersecurity risks. Examples include:
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NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology)
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ISO/IEC 27001
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CIS Controls
Why Learn Cybersecurity Terminology?
Understanding basic cybersecurity terms is the first step toward becoming cyber aware. It empowers individuals and organizations to protect themselves in an increasingly digital world.
If you're serious about building your career in cybersecurity or want to gain deeper insights, enrolling in a cyber security course in Kolkata can help you go from beginner to professional. And if you're fascinated by the idea of becoming a "white hat" hacker, you might consider an Best Ethical Hacking Certification Course in Kolkata that teaches you how to think like a hacker to defend against cyber threats.
Final Thoughts
Cybersecurity isn't just for IT professionals—it’s a skill set that benefits everyone in today’s connected world. This terminology cheat sheet is your first step in understanding the key concepts that form the foundation of digital safety.
Start using these terms in everyday conversations, stay informed about the latest threats, and take proactive steps to protect your data. Whether you're a student, a business owner, or just curious about online safety, mastering this cybersecurity vocabulary will give you the confidence to navigate the digital world securely.
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