By now, most people are familiar with classic tech abbreviations, such as CPU and RAM. However, the modern workplace has introduced a whole new wave of acronyms, particularly with remote work, cybersecurity, and cloud services becoming increasingly prevalent.
With thousands of tech terms floating around, here’s a rundown of the most common ones you’re likely to come across today, especially in business or office environments.
Networking Terms
VPN – Virtual Private Network
A VPN creates a secure tunnel, allowing remote workers to connect to office files, software, and printers as if they were physically present at work. It’s commonly used when working from home or on public Wi-Fi.
IP – Internet Protocol Address
Every internet-connected device has a unique IP address, kind of like a digital “desk number” that tells the network where to send data.
IoT – Internet of Things
This refers to smart devices, such as Wi-Fi thermostats, smart cameras, or digital door locks, that connect to the internet to share data or be remotely controlled.
LAN – Local Area Network
A LAN links devices inside a single building—such as computers, printers, and phones—so they can share the internet, files, and more.
WAN – Wide Area Network
Think of this as a LAN that spans across locations. Businesses with multiple offices use a WAN to stay connected.
WLAN – Wireless Local Area Network
This is just a LAN using Wi-Fi instead of cables. When people refer to “Wi-Fi,” they’re usually talking about WLAN.
VLAN – Virtual Local Area Network
A VLAN separates one physical network into isolated digital groups, like separating a guest Wi-Fi network from internal company resources.
AP – Access Point
An access point broadcasts your office’s Wi-Fi signal. Proper placement ensures strong, consistent coverage across the workspace.
Internet & Web Terms
SEO – Search Engine Optimization
This is the process of optimizing your website to improve its visibility on Google. It’s key for bringing in new leads and customers without paying for ads.
SERPs – Search Engine Results Pages
When you search on Google, the results you see are SERPs. Higher rankings mean more visibility for your business.
SEM – Search Engine Marketing
SEM refers to paid ads on search engines. It’s beneficial for achieving quick wins, such as holiday sales or product launches.
SSL – Secure Sockets Layer
SSL encrypts data—such as login details or credit card numbers—so it remains safe during online transmission. It’s a must-have for secure websites.
HTTPS – Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure
You’ll see HTTPS at the start of secure web addresses. It means SSL is active and your connection is encrypted.
DNS – Domain Name System
DNS is the system that translates easy-to-remember web addresses (like www.bcs.com) into numerical IP addresses, allowing computers to find each other.
DDoS – Distributed Denial of Service
This type of cyberattack floods a server with fake traffic, often causing the site to crash and resulting in outages.
Security Terms
MFA – Multi-Factor Authentication
MFA adds extra layers of security beyond just a password, such as a text message code or app notification. It’s critical for protecting accounts.
IAM – Identity and Access Management
IAM systems control who has access to what across your digital environment, similar to a building keycard system for the online world.
SSO – Single Sign-On
With SSO, you log in once and get access to multiple systems. This improves both convenience and security.
PCI DSS – Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard
If your business handles credit card payments, you’re expected to follow PCI DSS to keep customer data secure and avoid costly breaches.
MSP – Managed Service Provider
An MSP (like Bob’s Computer Service!) offers ongoing IT support, security monitoring, system backups, and more for businesses that prefer not to manage these tasks in-house.
Business Tech
AI – Artificial Intelligence
AI tools can automate tasks, spot patterns in data, and even respond to customer questions. It’s rapidly reshaping everything from marketing to fraud prevention.
SaaS – Software as a Service
SaaS delivers software directly through your browser, eliminating the need to install anything. Think of Microsoft 365 or QuickBooks Online—low setup, high flexibility.
API – Application Programming Interface
APIs allow different programs to “talk” to each other securely. For example, an app that tracks Amazon prices utilizes Amazon’s API to retrieve the data.
SLA – Service Level Agreement
SLAs are contracts that define performance expectations for services, such as guaranteed uptime, response times, or technical support coverage.
CMS – Content Management System
A CMS allows you to manage your website’s content without needing to code. WordPress is the most popular one.
BYOD – Bring Your Own Device
BYOD policies establish the guidelines for using personal devices for work, especially when accessing business systems or data.
🖥 General Computer Terms
OS – Operating System
Your OS runs your entire computer. Windows, macOS, and Linux are all common examples.
VM – Virtual Machine
VMs simulate other systems or older computers—helpful for testing software or running legacy apps that don’t work on modern machines.
GUI – Graphical User Interface
A GUI is what lets you click icons, open windows, and navigate software visually—no command lines needed.
TTF – TrueType Font
TTF files are common font files that scale cleanly across Windows and macOS systems without losing quality.
Still Confused by All the Tech Talk?
Don’t worry—we’re here to help. Whether you’re running a business or just trying to get your home network set up, we can explain everything in plain English and help your systems run smoothly.
Need help with your office technology, Wi-Fi setup, or have a quick question? Reach out to Bob’s Computer Service today.
