Explaining the Acronyms
Backup and Disaster Recovery (BCDR): A strategy and set of tools for ensuring data backup and rapid recovery in case of data loss or a catastrophic event.
Cloud Services: Outsourced IT services and infrastructure provided over the internet, including storage, computing power, and applications.
Cybersecurity: Measures and practices designed to protect computer systems, networks, and data from security breaches and unauthorized access.
Downtime: The period during which a system, service, or network is unavailable or offline, affecting normal business operations.
Endpoint: Any device (e.g., desktops, laptops, mobile devices) connected to a network that is managed and secured by the MSP.
Firewall: A network security system that monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules.
Incident Response: A coordinated approach to addressing and managing the aftermath of a cybersecurity incident or data breach.
IT Audit: A comprehensive review of an organization's information systems, policies, and procedures to ensure compliance, security, and efficiency.
IT Governance: Frameworks and processes that ensure IT activities align with business goals, comply with regulations, and manage risks effectively.
ITIL (Information Technology Infrastructure Library): A set of practices for IT service management that focuses on aligning IT services with the needs of the business.
MSP (Managed Service Provider): An IT service company that proactively manages and assumes responsibility for the day-to-day IT needs and functions of a business.
Multi-factor Authentication (MFA): A security process that requires users to provide multiple forms of identification before accessing a system or account.
Network Infrastructure: The underlying foundation that allows communication and connectivity between devices in an organization, managed by the MSP.
Patch Management: The process of updating and managing software patches to address vulnerabilities and ensure systems are up to date and secure.
Phishing: A type of cyberattack where malicious actors attempt to trick individuals into revealing sensitive information, often through deceptive emails or messages.
RMM (Remote Monitoring and Management): Software tools used by MSPs to monitor and manage IT systems remotely, ensuring proactive issue resolution.
SLA (Service Level Agreement): A contractual agreement outlining the services, response times, and performance metrics that an MSP guarantees to its clients.
User Training and Awareness: Programs designed to educate and empower users to recognize and respond to security threats, reducing the risk of human error.
VPN (Virtual Private Network): A technology that creates a secure connection over the internet, allowing users to access a private network securely.
Zero Trust Security Model: A security model that assumes no entity, whether inside or outside the network, should be trusted by default. Verification is required from everyone trying to access resources.