The FREE Cybersecurity Glossary by Thor Pedersen!

Windows Server Update Services (WSUS): A Microsoft tool that allows administrators to manage and distribute updates released through Microsoft Update to computers in a corporate environment. It provides a centralized and automated method of deploying critical updates, ensuring that all systems within an organization are consistently protected against known issues and vulnerabilities and their software environment remains secure and up-to-date.

Wine: A compatibility layer capable of running Windows applications on several POSIX-compliant operating systems, such as Linux, macOS, & BSD. It duplicates functions of Windows by providing alternative implementations of the DLLs that Windows programs call and a process to substitute for the Windows NT kernel. This provides a way for users of non-Windows systems to utilize software that is traditionally Windows-only, increasing interoperability and software availability.

Wiping: The process of securely deleting data from a storage device to prevent it from being recovered. Used in data disposal and data destruction to protect against data breaches. Examples include overwriting data with zeros or using a data eraser.

Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP): An early security protocol designed for wireless networks. Introduced in 1997 as part of the original 802.11 wireless standard, it was intended to provide confidentiality comparable to that of a traditional wired network. However, WEP was found to have significant security vulnerabilities that made it relatively easy for attackers to decrypt network traffic. As a result, it has been largely replaced by more secure protocols, such as WPA and WPA2.

Wireless Access Point (WAP): A networking device that enables wireless-capable devices to connect to a wired network. It acts as a communication hub by receiving and transmitting data between the wireless devices and the wired part of the network. WAPs are commonly used in homes and businesses to extend network coverage and allow for seamless internet connectivity for devices like computers, smartphones, and smart home devices.

Wireless attacks: Malicious attempts to compromise or intercept data transmitted over wireless networks. These attacks target vulnerabilities in wireless protocols and devices, ranging from Wi-Fi networks to Bluetooth connections. Wireless attacks can lead to unauthorized access, data breaches, and network disruption. Common examples include eavesdropping, man-in-the-middle attacks, and unauthorized network access. Defenses against these attacks include the use of strong encryption, secure authentication methods, and vigilant network monitoring.