A Microsoft tool that synchronises on-premises Active Directory accounts with Azure AD, so users can use the same login for on-prem and cloud services.

Microsoft’s directory service that stores information about users, groups, computers and permissions on a Windows network.

Software that detects, blocks and removes malicious software such as viruses, trojans and worms from computers and servers.

Microsoft’s cloud-based identity and access management service used to manage logins to Microsoft 365 and other cloud apps.

A copy of data stored separately so it can be restored in case the original is lost, corrupted or encrypted by ransomware.

The maximum amount of data that can travel over an internet connection each second, usually measured in Mbps or Gbps.

Microsoft’s built-in disk encryption technology that protects data on a device if it is lost or stolen.

Temporary files stored by a web browser to make websites load faster the next time they are visited.

A service that stores files on remote servers accessed over the internet instead of on a local computer or server.

A security tool that blocks access to unsafe or inappropriate websites and online content.

The main processor in a computer that performs calculations and runs programs.

A UK government-backed cybersecurity certification that shows a business has basic controls in place to protect against common threats.

The Domain Name System, which translates human-friendly website names like example.com into IP addresses that computers use.

A human-readable name like company.co.uk used for websites, email addresses and other internet services.

A Windows server that runs Active Directory and handles logins, permissions and security for a network.

An additional email address that delivers messages to an existing mailbox without needing a separate mailbox license.

An email feature that automatically sends incoming messages from one address to another.

Any device that connects to the network such as a laptop, desktop, tablet, phone or server.

A portable storage device such as a USB hard drive used for extra space or backups.

A security system that monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic based on a set of rules.

A server that stores and shares files for users on a local network.

Low-level software built into hardware devices like routers and printers that controls how they operate.

File Transfer Protocol, an older method used to upload and download files to and from servers over the internet.

A Windows feature used by IT to centrally manage settings and restrictions on users and computers.

A separate wireless network for visitors that keeps them isolated from the internal business network.

Hypertext Transfer Protocol, used to transfer web pages over the internet but not encrypted by default.

The secure version of HTTP that encrypts data between a browser and a website using SSL/TLS certificates.

Internet Message Access Protocol, which keeps email on the server and syncs it with devices but doesn’t handle calendars and collaboration well.

Automatic actions in an email client that move, flag or forward messages based on conditions like sender or subject.

A numeric label assigned to each device on a network so it can communicate with other devices.

Internet Service Provider, the company that supplies your internet connection.

Local Area Network, the internal network that connects computers, printers and servers within an office or building.

A user account on a computer with full control over that device, including installing software and changing settings.

Malicious software such as viruses, ransomware, spyware or trojans designed to damage or gain unauthorised access to systems.

Microsoft’s cloud suite that includes email, Office apps, Teams, OneDrive, SharePoint and security tools.

An extra layer of security that requires a second step such as a code or app approval in addition to a password.

Network Attached Storage, a box on the network that provides central file storage similar to a small file server.

A collaboration group in Microsoft 365 that brings together a shared mailbox, calendar, files and a Planner board.

Microsoft’s personal cloud storage for work files, tied to a user’s Microsoft 365 account.

IT systems such as servers or email that are physically located in your office rather than in the cloud.

The default domain ending in .onmicrosoft.com that comes with every Microsoft 365 tenant, used behind the scenes for services and testing.

Microsoft’s email and calendar application used on desktop, mobile and the web.

A software update released by a vendor to fix security issues, bugs or add new features.

A type of scam email or message that tries to trick users into sharing passwords or clicking malicious links.

A powerful command-line tool used by IT professionals to automate tasks and manage Windows systems.

The list of print jobs waiting to be printed on a particular printer or print server.

A type of malware that encrypts files and demands payment for the decryption key.

A technology that allows a user to connect and control a computer over the internet or network.

An employee who works away from the main office, usually connecting via VPN or cloud services.

A device that connects networks together and forwards data between your office network and the internet.

Microsoft’s cloud platform for storing, organising and sharing files, folders and intranet sites within Microsoft 365.

A mailbox used by multiple people, such as info@company.com, that usually doesn’t require its own license.

A system that allows users to log in once and automatically access multiple applications without re-entering their password.

Simple Mail Transfer Protocol, used to send emails from clients and servers.

Unwanted or unsolicited email, often advertising or scams, that clutters inboxes.

Solid State Drive, a fast type of storage drive used in modern laptops and desktops.

A web page that lists company apps and allows users to sign in to them with one central login.

A network device that connects multiple computers and devices within a local network.

Microsoft 365’s chat, calling and collaboration app used for meetings, file sharing and team communication.

A dedicated instance of Microsoft 365 services for a single organisation, identified by its onmicrosoft.com domain.

Transport Layer Security, the encryption technology used to secure data sent over the internet such as HTTPS and secure email.

Another term for multi-factor authentication that requires two types of verification to log in.

Uninterruptible Power Supply, a battery-backed device that keeps equipment running during short power cuts and allows safe shutdown.

Virtual Private Network, a secure connection that lets remote users access the office network over the internet as if they were on-site.

Wide Area Network, a network that connects multiple locations or offices over large geographical areas.

Wireless networking technology that allows devices to connect to the internet without cables.

Microsoft’s service that delivers operating system and security updates to Windows computers.

A security approach that assumes no user or device is trusted by default, even if they are inside the network, and verifies everything.