Welcome to the North Signal glossary. This resource is designed for Manchester SMEs, professional services firms, and mid-market businesses who want to make sense of IT, compliance, and cybersecurity jargon. Each entry is explained in plain English, with practical context for business leaders.
A – C
API (Application Programming Interface)
A set of rules that allows different applications to communicate with one another. APIs are critical in digital transformation projects where systems must integrate smoothly.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Technology that mimics human intelligence, such as ChatGPT or machine learning tools. Many SMEs in Manchester are exploring AI adoption, but without proper data governance, it can introduce security risks.
Automation
The use of software to perform tasks without human intervention. For SMEs, automation can reduce costs and improve compliance by eliminating manual errors.
Business Continuity
A plan to keep essential business functions running during disruptions, from cyber-attacks to power failures. Investors often ask for documented continuity plans during due diligence.
CISO (Chief Information Security Officer)
A board-level role focused on information security and risk management. North Signal provides Fractional CISO Services in Manchester to SMEs who need expertise without the full-time cost.
CIO (Chief Information Officer)
An executive responsible for IT strategy, governance, and compliance. A Fractional CIO in Manchester ensures SMEs align IT with business growth and regulatory needs.
Cloud Transformation
The migration of data and applications to cloud platforms like Microsoft Azure, AWS, or Google Cloud. Cloud adoption improves scalability but requires careful security and compliance planning.
Compliance Audit
A formal review of whether an organisation meets standards like ISO 27001, PCI DSS, or GDPR. These audits are crucial for Manchester firms preparing for investment or sale.
CTO (Chief Technology Officer)
A role focused on technical innovation, product development, and architecture. North Signal offers Fractional CTO Services in Manchester to SMEs who want board-level technology leadership.
Cyber Essentials
A UK government-backed certification scheme that demonstrates basic cybersecurity hygiene. Often a prerequisite for contracts in the public sector.
D – F
Data Governance
The framework for managing data availability, integrity, and security. Strong governance reassures both regulators and investors.
Data Protection Impact Assessment (DPIA)
A GDPR-mandated process for identifying risks in personal data processing. North Signal helps SMEs complete DPIAs as part of compliance.
Digital Transformation
The use of digital tools such as cloud, AI, and automation to drive growth and efficiency. Our Digital Transformation Services in Manchester ensure compliance and security are embedded from day one.
Due Diligence (IT)
An assessment of IT systems, cybersecurity, and compliance during mergers and acquisitions. North Signal provides IT due diligence services to protect value in Manchester M&A transactions.
Endpoint Protection
Security tools such as antivirus and device monitoring used to protect laptops, mobiles, and desktops.
Firewall
A barrier between a trusted network and untrusted traffic. Firewalls are a basic but essential part of SME security.
Fractional Leadership
Part-time or project-based executives providing board-level roles such as CIO, CTO, or CISO. North Signal specialises in Fractional IT Leadership in Manchester.
G – I
GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation)
The UK regulation governing how personal data is collected, processed, and stored. North Signal provides GDPR audits, policies, and training for SMEs.
Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC)
A framework to ensure IT aligns with business goals, risk is managed, and compliance is achieved.
Hybrid Cloud
An IT model combining public cloud services with on-premise infrastructure. Often chosen by firms transitioning gradually to cloud.
Identity & Access Management (IAM)
The systems and policies that ensure only authorised users can access data and applications.
Incident Response
The plan and actions taken when a security breach or cyber attack occurs. Buyers and investors expect to see tested incident response frameworks.
Information Security
Protecting data and systems from unauthorised access, disclosure, or destruction. ISO 27001 is the key international standard for information security.
ISO 27001
A global certification standard for information security management systems. North Signal provides ISO 27001 Consultancy in Manchester.
M – P
Machine Learning (ML)
A subset of AI where systems learn patterns from data and improve performance over time. Useful for fraud detection, but risky if training data is insecure.
M&A IT Integration
The process of aligning IT systems after a merger or acquisition. North Signal supports Manchester firms with Post-Merger IT Integration Planning.
MFA (Multi-Factor Authentication)
Adding extra login verification (e.g. password + code) to protect accounts. A cost-effective security upgrade for SMEs.
Outsourced IT
Using a third-party provider for IT support or services. Many Manchester SMEs outsource day-to-day IT but use North Signal for board-level strategy and governance.
PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard)
A compliance framework for handling cardholder data. North Signal provides PCI DSS consultancy in Manchester.
Penetration Testing (Pen Test)
Simulated cyber attacks to identify vulnerabilities before real attackers do.
Phishing
A common cyber attack where fraudulent emails or texts trick users into giving away sensitive data.
Privacy by Design
An approach to system design that integrates data protection from the outset, as required by GDPR.
R – T
Ransomware
Malicious software that locks systems or data until a ransom is paid. SMEs are prime targets due to weaker defences.
Risk Assessment
A structured review of potential threats to IT systems. North Signal provides IT risk assessments as part of compliance readiness.
SaaS (Software as a Service)
Cloud-delivered software such as Office 365 or Salesforce. Popular with SMEs for cost efficiency.
Security Awareness Training
Training staff to recognise threats like phishing and social engineering.
Shadow IT
Technology used by staff without IT approval. Often creates compliance and security risks.
SOC (Security Operations Centre)
A team or service monitoring networks and systems for threats. SMEs often outsource SOC services.
System Audit
A full review of IT systems and processes to identify risks and inefficiencies.
Third-Party Risk Management
Assessing and monitoring the security of vendors and partners. Increasingly important in supply chain security.
U – Z
User Access Management
The control of who has access to systems and data, ensuring permissions align with job roles.
vDPO (Virtual Data Protection Officer)
An outsourced GDPR expert providing DPO services without the cost of hiring internally. North Signal offers vDPO services in Manchester.
Vulnerability Scan
An automated test to find weaknesses in IT systems.
Zero-Day Exploit
An attack exploiting an unknown or unpatched vulnerability.
Zero Trust
A security model assuming no user or device is trustworthy by default, even within the internal network.
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