Security Glossary

A glossary of definitions dealing with security on electronic devices. This includes related terms and phrases for Internet and AntiVirus security on computers, smartphones and tablets. Other definitions may apply in different circumstances but are not included.

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Term Definition
Firewall

Software or hardware that prevents computers on a network from communicating directly with outside computer systems. A firewall typically acts as a barrier through which all information passing between the networks and the external systems must travel. The firewall software analyzes information passing between the two and rejects it if it does not conform to its guidelines.