The world of IT is constantly changing, and so is the terminology. Many of the words become buzzwords, often barely defined and ill-used.
While using these words isn't bad, they can create confusion. This article identifies and defines six terms vital to IT and how we deploy them at Anteris.
6 Misused IT Buzzwords
Strategic
Strategic is the most popular way to describe IT partnerships. And it's not surprising why. An IT strategy is a plan for the future that will help guide decision-making about business outcomes supported by technology. By definition, a strategic partner keeps strategy at the forefront. They work with your company to make plans and changes that best fit your company.
Working with a truly strategic IT partner will position your organization for growth. When looking for a strategic partner, seek out a company that genuinely wants to be a part of your organization. The goal of a strategic partner should be to align your technology with the growth and objectives of your organization.
Advanced
Advanced is a term often thrown around with cybersecurity tools. In the end, it's an umbrella term that doesn't have a universal definition. The word "advanced" can describe cybersecurity similar to how the term "organic" can describe produce. Greater context is necessary to understand whether the term makes sense to use.
At Anteris, we define "advanced" cybersecurity threats as targeted and customized for a specific user. In addition, instead of focusing on advanced tools, look at upgrading your cybersecurity posture. Start with the basics, including a VPN and multifactor authentication, and improve. It's not an overnight fix but something you will need to continue improving.
Agile
We typically associate agility with planning and implementation strategies. Agile thinking and planning respond to change as the need arrives, rather than following a pre-determined, long-term plan. Agile thinking evolves through collaboration between teams. Remaining agile through IT means updating and shifting tools and methods based on the input of other groups. Agile thinking is the cornerstone for effective strategic partnership.
AI/ML
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) describe the autonomous intelligent behavior of software or machines. Technology isn't necessarily moving toward conscious thought, just that the tools learn and adapt to the typical behavior of users. AI and ML tools can help identify breaches since AI tools identify the unusual behavior that occurs during a breach. ML is simply a subset of AI and shows an increase in complexity from AI.
Zero Trust
Zero trust is commonly used a lot like the term "advanced." Often, zero trust is considered a type of tool instead of what it is: a posture. Zero trust is challenging to define briefly, but as a quick definition, zero trust classifies all web traffic and activity as suspicious. Working with an IT partner who is well-versed in zero trust is an excellent way to implement it correctly.
Social Engineering
Social engineering refers to an extensive range of malicious activities but has a common goal. In short, social engineering uses technological manipulation to trick users into making security mistakes or giving away sensitive information.
Social engineering involves the criminal identifying and investigating the potential victim to gain information. The criminal then deceives the victim to gain a foothold and slowly obtain the data over a period of time.
Preventing social engineering attacks can look similar to preventing many cyberattacks. Don't open emails and attachments from suspicious sources, use multifactor authentication, be wary of offers that seem too good to be true, and keep your devices and software updated.
How Anteris Can Help
We believe in transparency. We aim not to hide behind ill-defined terms and scare tactics but rather to educate our Clients.
As lifelong learners, we are happy to share what we've learned.
Let us make your technology freeing, not frustrating.
