IT management

Learn about the core elements of IT management, including operations, tech support and personal computing, as well as terms related to IT careers, certifications and project management.

Certifications

This glossary contains definitions related to IT Certifications.

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IT career paths

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IT Operations

Terms related to the processes and services implemented and managed by an organization’s information technology (IT) department. Topics covered include systems management, configuration management, API management and DevOps, as well as real-time performance monitoring and management.

  • What is a cloud-native application?

    A cloud-native application is a program that is designed for a cloud computing architecture. These applications are run and hosted in the cloud and are designed to capitalize on the inherent characteristics of a cloud computing software delivery model.

  • What is managed detection and response (MDR)?

    Managed detection and response (MDR) services are a collection of network-, host- and endpoint-based cybersecurity technologies that a third-party provider manages for a client organization.

  • What is a configuration file?

    A configuration file, often shortened to config file, defines the parameters, options, settings and preferences applied to operating systems (OSes), infrastructure devices and applications in an IT context.

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Personal computing

Terms related to personal computers, including definitions about computers sold as consumer products and words and phrases about laptops, tablets and smartphones.

  • What is SaaS (software as a service)?

    Software as a service (SaaS) is a software distribution model in which a cloud provider hosts applications and makes them available to end users over the internet.

  • What is a Request for Comments (RFC)?

    A Request for Comments (RFC) is a formal document created by the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) that outlines technical specifications, organizational notes and standards relevant to internet and networking technologies, including protocols such as routing, addressing and transport technologies.

  • What is SMS (Short Message Service)?

    SMS (Short Message Service), commonly referred to as 'text messaging,' is a service for sending short messages of up to 160 characters (224 character limit if using a 5-bit mode) to mobile devices, including cellular phones, smartphones and tablets.

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Project management

Terms related to project management, including definitions about project management methodologies and tools.

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Technical support

Terms related to computer fundamentals, including computer hardware definitions and words and phrases about software, operating systems, peripherals and troubleshooting.

  • What is web application (web apps) and its benefits?

    A web application (web app) is an application program that is stored on a remote server and delivered over the internet through a browser interface.

  • What is a framework?

    In general, a framework is a real or conceptual structure intended to serve as a support or guide for the building of something that expands the structure into something useful.

  • What is an information system (IS)?

    An information system (IS) is an interconnected set of components used to collect, store, process and transmit data and digital information.

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