Maryland Security Glossary: Must-Know Security Terms
- Zeus IT and Security
- Nov 7
- 4 min read
Maryland Security Glossary
Running a business in Maryland comes with unique challenges — and cybersecurity, IT, and physical
security can feel like an entirely different language. From safeguarding sensitive data and networks to securing buildings and smart systems, understanding the key terms is essential to protecting your company. This glossary breaks down the most important IT and security terminology in plain English, so you can make informed decisions and strengthen your business defenses.
Core Cybersecurity & IT Concepts
Firewall: A network security system that monitors and controls incoming and outgoing traffic. Think of it as a barrier that blocks unauthorized access while allowing legitimate communication.
VPN (Virtual Private Network): Encrypts your internet connection to protect data when working remotely. Essential for businesses with remote employees or multiple locations.
MFA (Multi-Factor Authentication): Adds an extra layer of login security, requiring more than just a password — often a code sent to a device or an app.
SOC (Security Operations Center): A centralized unit monitoring, detecting, and responding to cybersecurity incidents in real-time.
SIEM (Security Information and Event Management): A platform that collects and analyzes security alerts across your network to help detect and prevent threats.
Zero Trust Architecture: Security model assuming no device or user is automatically trusted, even inside your network. All access requests must be verified.
Phishing: Deceptive emails or messages that trick employees into revealing sensitive information like passwords. Phishing is a common way cybercriminals exploit businesses, and it’s a tactic often involved in supply chain attacks, which can put even trusted vendors at risk.
Ransomware: Malware that locks access to your systems or files until a ransom is paid. Understanding ransomware is critical for Maryland businesses facing the biggest cybersecurity threats in 2025.
Zero-Day Vulnerability: A previously unknown software flaw that hackers exploit before a patch is available.
Penetration Testing: Ethical hacking performed by security professionals to identify and fix vulnerabilities before criminals find them.
IT & Networking Terms
Endpoint: Any device connected to your network — laptops, smartphones, tablets, servers, or smart building devices.
Patch Management: Regular updates to software and systems to fix security flaws and prevent breaches.
LAN / WAN (Local / Wide Area Network): Types of networks connecting devices within a single location or across multiple sites.
Network Installation: The process of setting up reliable wired and wireless networks for business operations.
Communications Systems: Technology solutions that ensure smooth internal and external communications — from VoIP phones to intercoms.
Managed IT Services: Outsourcing day-to-day IT management to experts who maintain network performance, security, and uptime.
Quality of Service (QoS): Prioritizing network traffic to ensure critical systems, like VoIP or security cameras, perform smoothly.
Power over Ethernet (PoE): Delivers both data and electricity over network cables, commonly used for security cameras or access control systems.
Physical & Electronic Security
Access Control: Systems that regulate who can enter certain areas of a building, often using key cards, codes, or biometric scans.
Biometric Access: Security systems using fingerprints, facial recognition, or retina scans to grant or restrict access.
CCTV / Surveillance Cameras: Video systems that monitor and record activity to deter and investigate incidents.
NVR vs. DVR: Network Video Recorders vs. Digital Video Recorders — technologies for storing security footage.
Physical Security: Measures that protect a business’s people, property, and assets through tangible barriers such as locks, fences, safes, and controlled access points. Physical security works alongside electronic security to prevent unauthorized access, theft and vandalism.
Electronic Security: The umbrella term for alarms, sensors, cameras, and monitoring systems that protect business assets.
DIY Security: While tempting, do-it-yourself solutions often fail to provide comprehensive protection. Learn why in Real Problems, Real Solutions: Why DIY Security Fails.
Integration / Converged Security Systems: Combining physical and cyber monitoring into one unified platform for improved efficiency and threat detection.
Building Automation & Smart Systems
Building Automation: Integrated systems that manage lighting, HVAC, security, and other operations to increase efficiency and safety.
BACnet / KNX / Zigbee / Z-Wave: Common communication protocols used by smart devices in building automation.
IoT Device Security: The practice of securing connected devices, from cameras to smart thermostats, to prevent hacking.
Fire Alarm Systems: Systems that detect and alert in the event of a fire, protecting people and property.
Bringing It All Together
Understanding these terms isn’t just about knowledge — it’s about making smarter decisions for your business. Whether upgrading your IT infrastructure, investing in cybersecurity, installing access control, or modernizing your building with smart systems, knowing the Maryland Security Glossary helps you ask the right questions and select the best solutions.
At Zeus IT & Security, we help Maryland businesses protect what matters most — from IT systems and cyber defenses to physical security and smart building automation.
Have questions about any of these terms? Contact us today for a free security review and let’s ensure your business is fully protected.
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