ITF Concepts and Terminology Flashcards

What is the role of a 'firewall' in network security?

Answer: To monitor and control incoming and outgoing network traffic based on rules

A firewall monitors and filters network traffic based on predefined security rules, blocking unauthorized access while allowing legitimate traffic.

What does 'BIOS' stand for and what is its primary function?

Answer: Basic Input/Output System; initializes hardware during boot

BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) is firmware that initializes hardware components during startup and loads the operating system.

Which term describes the process of copying data to a secondary location to protect against data loss?

Answer: Backup

A backup is a copy of data stored in a separate location that can be used to restore data in the event of loss or corruption.

What is the function of an 'SSD' compared to a traditional 'HDD'?

Answer: SSDs use flash memory chips and have no moving parts; HDDs use spinning magnetic platters

SSDs store data on flash memory chips with no moving parts, making them faster and more durable than HDDs which use spinning magnetic platters.

In networking, what is the purpose of a 'router'?

Answer: To direct network traffic between different networks

A router directs data packets between networks, determining the best path for data to travel from source to destination.

What is 'two-factor authentication' (2FA)?

Answer: Requiring two independent forms of verification to confirm identity

Two-factor authentication requires users to provide two distinct verification factors (e.g., a password plus a one-time code) to access an account.

What does the term 'plug and play' mean in computing?

Answer: The ability to connect a device and have it automatically detected and configured by the OS

Plug and play (PnP) refers to hardware devices that are automatically detected and configured by the operating system when connected.