1. Bandwidth

In IT, bandwidth is the amount of data your internet connection can handle at once.

Think of it like a motorway:

• The cars are the data
• The lanes represent your bandwidth
• The more lanes you have, the more cars can travel at once, and the smoother the journey

If your business has low bandwidth, things like video calls, large downloads or cloud applications might slow down because too much data is trying to squeeze down a narrow road at the same time.

Plain English takeaway:
Bandwidth is how much information your internet connection can handle at once. More bandwidth = faster and smoother performance for your business.

2. Firewall

A firewall is like a bouncer at a nightclub. Every bit of data that tries to get into (or out of) your network has to get past it.

If the firewall doesn’t like the look of it – think suspicious files, dodgy websites, traffic from known hackers etc. – it won’t let it in.

Plain English takeaway:
A firewall is your digital security guard, keeping unwanted guests out.

3. Cloud

The cloud is just a way of storing and using data or software over the internet instead of on your own computer or server.

Think of how you used to buy DVDs and keep them at home. If you wanted to watch a film, you needed the disc and a DVD player. Now, with Netflix or Disney+, you don’t need discs – you stream the film directly from their servers, anywhere, anytime.

Plain English takeaway:
The cloud means you don’t have to own or manage all the technology yourself – you can securely access your files and apps online, whenever and wherever you need them.

4. Phishing

Phishing is when criminals try to trick you with fake emails, texts or messages that look genuine.

It’s like receiving a letter that looks like it’s from your bank, asking you to “confirm your details.” Only it isn’t your bank – it’s a scammer trying to steal your login or money.

Modern phishing emails are often very convincing – with real logos, names and even copied writing styles. That’s why staff training is so important.

Plain English takeaway:
Phishing = online trickery designed to steal your information.

5. VPN (Virtual Private Network)

A VPN is like a private tunnel between your device and the internet.

Normally, when you browse online, your data travels along public roads where everyone can see. A VPN wraps your data in a private, secure tunnel, hiding it from prying eyes.

Businesses often use VPNs so staff working remotely can connect securely to company systems.

Plain English takeaway:
A VPN is a private tunnel that keeps your online activity safe and hidden.

6. Patching

Patching means updating your software to fix weaknesses that criminals could exploit.

Think of it like locking up your office at night. If you forget to lock the door, you’re leaving an open invitation for burglars to walk straight in. Software that isn’t patched is just like that unlocked door – an easy way in for cyber criminals.

Cyber criminals actively look for businesses running out-of-date software because it’s easier to break into.

Plain English takeaway:
Patching = repairing weaknesses so hackers can’t get in.

7. Backup

A backup is simply a copy of your important data, stored somewhere safe.

Think of it like photocopying an important document and putting the copy in a fireproof safe. If the original gets lost, damaged or stolen, you’ve got a spare ready to go.

Backups are your safety net against accidental deletion, hardware failure, cyber attacks or even natural disasters.

Plain English takeaway:
A backup is your business safety net when something goes wrong.

8. Malware

Malware is short for “malicious software” – harmful programs designed to cause harm to your computer or network. It can steal information, slow down your systems, or even lock you out until you pay a ransom.

It usually finds its way in through suspicious email attachments, dodgy downloads, or unsafe websites.

Plain English takeaway:
Malware is harmful software that gets into your systems to spy, steal, damage or disrupt.

9. Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

2FA is an extra layer of security for your accounts.

It’s like locking your office with both a key and a passcode. Even if someone steals your key, they can’t get in without knowing the passcode too.

Online, that means logging in with your password plus a second step – often a time-sensitive, randomly generated code sent to your phone each time someone tries to log in.

Plain English takeaway:
2FA means you need two locks instead of one, making it much harder for criminals to break in.

10. Server

A server is a powerful computer that stores and manages data, files, or applications, and makes them available to other computers on a network.

Instead of every computer holding its own copy of everything, the server acts as the central point everyone connects to.

Plain English takeaway:
A server is the central computer that provides shared data, files, or applications for your business.

Why this matters

You don’t need to become fluent in IT jargon – that’s what we’re here for – but understanding the basics means:

• You can make better decisions about technology for your business
• You’re less likely to be caught out by scams or misinformation
• You can have clearer conversations with your IT provider