Cybersecurity Glossary

Virtual machine security refers to the protection of virtual machines (VMs) and their underlying infrastructure from security threats and vulnerabilities. VMs are software-based instances that emulate physical computers and can run multiple operating systems or applications on a single physical server. Virtual machine security involves implementing security measures at different layers, including the hypervisor, guest operating systems, and virtual network infrastructure. It includes measures such as securing VM images, applying security patches and updates, isolating VMs from each other, monitoring VM activity, and implementing network segmentation and access controls within virtualised environments. Virtual machine security helps ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of virtualised systems and data.

A virtual private network (VPN) is a secure and encrypted connection that allows users to access a private network or the internet securely over a public network, such as the internet. VPNs create a secure tunnel between the user's device and the destination network, encrypting the data and protecting it from interception or unauthorised access. VPNs are commonly used to enhance privacy, protect sensitive information, bypass geographic restrictions, or enable secure remote access to corporate networks. By using VPNs, users can establish secure connections even when accessing public Wi-Fi networks or other untrusted networks.

A virus is a type of malicious software (malware) that is designed to self-replicate by inserting copies of itself into other programs, files, or the boot sector of a computer's hard drive. Viruses are often spread through infected email attachments, downloads from untrusted sources, or compromised websites. Once a virus infects a system, it can perform various malicious actions, such as corrupting files, stealing data, disrupting system operations, or spreading to other systems. Antivirus software and regular system updates are essential for detecting and removing viruses and preventing their spread.

A virus signature, also known as a malware signature or a pattern, is a unique identifier or characteristic code that represents a specific virus or malware variant. Virus signatures are used by antivirus software to identify and detect known viruses or malware during scanning or real-time protection. Antivirus programs compare the files or data being scanned with an extensive database of virus signatures to determine if there is a match. Virus signatures are regularly updated by antivirus vendors to keep pace with new and evolving threats.

A VPN client is a software application or device that enables users to establish a virtual private network (VPN) connection with a VPN server. The VPN client is installed on the user's device, such as a computer, smartphone, or tablet, and allows them to securely access the VPN network and its resources. The VPN client encrypts the user's internet traffic and routes it through the VPN server, providing privacy, anonymity, and protection against unauthorised access or interception. VPN clients can support various VPN protocols, such as OpenVPN, IPSec, or L2TP, and may offer additional features like automatic connection, split tunneling, or kill switch functionality.

VPN tunneling, also known as encapsulation, is the process of creating a secure, encrypted connection, or tunnel, between the user's device and a remote VPN server. When a VPN connection is established, the user's data is encapsulated within an encrypted tunnel that protects it from being intercepted or accessed by unauthorised parties. VPN tunneling protocols, such as IPSec, OpenVPN, or WireGuard, are responsible for establishing and maintaining the encrypted tunnel. VPN tunneling ensures the confidentiality and integrity of data transmitted between the user's device and the VPN server, regardless of the network they are connected to.

A vulnerability refers to a weakness or flaw in a system, network, application, or process that can be exploited by threat actors to compromise the security, integrity, or availability of the target. Vulnerabilities can arise from programming errors, misconfigurations, design flaws, or outdated software versions. Exploiting vulnerabilities can lead to unauthorised access, data breaches, system crashes, or the execution of arbitrary code. It is crucial to identify and address vulnerabilities through practices such as regular security patching, vulnerability scanning, penetration testing, and secure coding to minimize the risk of exploitation.

Vulnerability assessment is the process of identifying and evaluating vulnerabilities within a system, network, or application. It involves systematically scanning and analysing the target environment to discover potential weaknesses, misconfigurations, or security flaws that could be exploited by attackers. Vulnerability assessments utilize automated tools, manual inspection, and security expertise to identify vulnerabilities, assign severity levels, and provide recommendations for remediation. By conducting vulnerability assessments regularly, organisations can gain visibility into their security posture, prioritize remediation efforts, and reduce the risk of successful attacks.

Vulnerability management is a comprehensive practice that involves identifying, assessing, prioritizing, mitigating, and monitoring vulnerabilities within an organisation's systems, networks, and applications. Vulnerability management encompasses activities such as vulnerability scanning, patch management, configuration hardening, risk analysis, and incident response planning. The goal of vulnerability management is to proactively reduce the organisation's exposure to potential threats by minimizing the attack surface and promptly addressing known vulnerabilities. By implementing an effective vulnerability management program, organisations can enhance their security posture and minimize the likelihood and impact of successful attacks.