IT Terms: 26 Key Terms Every Business Owner Needs
Technology can be confusing. This A-Z glossary explains common and essential IT terms in clear, simple language- no tech background needed. Whether you’re reviewing cybersecurity, expanding your team, or setting up cloud services, understanding these IT terms can help you make smarter decisions and avoid common pitfalls. 
A- API (Application Programming Interface)
An important IT term describing a way for different software programs to connect and work together—like your website connecting to a payment system or CRM.
| Why it matters: APIs help your tools share data automatically, so your team works smarter, not harder. Learn more from IBM
B- Bandwidth
One of the key IT terms to know: the amount of data your internet can handle at once. More bandwidth means faster cloud apps, smoother video calls, and fewer slowdowns.
| One of the most misunderstood IT terms, but critical for daily productivity.
C- CRM (Customer Relationship Management)
Software that helps you manage customer interactions, track sales, and streamline communication-all in one place.
| CRMs improve customer service and help businesses grow more efficiently. Learn more from Salesforce
D- DNS (Domain Name System)
Turns website names (like saltechsystems.com) into numerical addresses that computers understand.
| If your email or website ever goes down, DNS might be the culprit. Learn more from Cloudflare
E- Endpoint
Any device that connects to your network- laptops, phones, tablets, and even printers.
| Endpoints are often the first line of attack for hackers. Keeping them secure is vital.
F- Firewall
A foundational IT term: a digital security filter that protects your network from unwanted traffic, malware, or hacking attempts.
| A foundational IT term-every business should have a firewall in place. Learn more from Cisco
G- Gateway
A device that connects your internal network to the outside internet. Think of it as your network’s front door.
| Gateways are often combined with firewalls for added protection.
H- Hosting
The service of storing your website files on a server so people can access it online.
| Reliable hosting means faster load times and less downtime. GoDaddy – What is Web Hosting?
I- IP Address
A unique number assigned to every device on a network- like a mailing address for your computer.
| Knowing your IP can help with network troubleshooting and security.
J- Jam (Network Jam)
When too much traffic slows down your internet or network- like a digital traffic jam.
| Caused by too many devices, large downloads, or outdated infrastructure.
K- Keystroke Logging
An alarming IT term related to spyware that secretly records what you type—including passwords and emails.
| One of the most dangerous IT terms related to data theft. Learn more from Norton
L- LAN (Local Area Network)
A group of connected devices in one location- like all the computers in your office.
| LANs are the backbone of your internal IT environment.
M- Malware
Short for “malicious software” it’s any program designed to harm, steal, or exploit your data.
| Includes viruses, spyware, and ransomware.
N- Network Segmentation
Breaking your network into smaller sections to improve security and performance.
| Helps stop a cyberattack from spreading across your entire system.
O- Onboarding
Setting up new employees with devices, passwords, software, and access permissions.
| Efficient onboarding boosts productivity and protects sensitive data.
P- Phishing
A common IT term for scam emails or messages that trick users into giving up passwords or personal info.
| Teach your team to recognize phishing to avoid costly breaches. Learn more from FTC
Q- Quarantine
An important IT term referring to isolating suspicious files or emails so they can’t infect your system.
| Quarantine is a common feature in antivirus and spam filters that helps protect your network.
R- Ransomware
A type of malware that locks your data and demands payment to unlock it.
| A growing threat that can shut down entire businesses.
S- SaaS (Software as a Service)
Apps you can access online via subscription like Google Workspace or Microsoft 365
| No installs or updates- just log in and go.
T- Two Factor Authentication (2FA)
An extra layer of security- like entering a code texted to your phone after your password.
| One of the easiest ways to protect accounts from unauthorized access. Learn more from Timus Networks
U- URL (Uniform Resource Locator)
The web address you type into a browser to visit a site.
| URLs help users (and browser’s) locate websites across the internet.
V- VPN (Virtual Private Network)
Creates a secure tunnel for internet traffic to protect your data from snooping.
| Useful when working remotely or using public Wi-Fi. Learn more from Microsoft
W- WAN (Wide Area Network)
A network that connects devices across different locations- like multiple office branches. 
| WANs keep your business connected across cities or even continents.
X- X-Ray (Security X-Ray)
A metaphor for tools that scan your systems for hidden vulnerabilities or threats.
| Think of it as a check-up for your network’s health.
Y- You’re Secure
One of the best IT terms as it’s a reminder that proactive security measures- like backups and firewalls- keep your business safe.
| There’s no finish line in cybersecurity. Keep improving.
Z- Zero Trust Security
One of the modern IT terms that describes a security model that assumes no user or device is automatically trusted—everything must be verified.
| An advanced approach that reduces the risk of internal and external threats. Learn more from IBM
Need help understanding how these IT terms apply to your business?
Saltech Systems offers IT support, Cybersecurity, and Cloud Solutions built for small businesses. Contact us here to get started.