| AD | Active Directory | Microsoft's directory service used to manage users, computers, and permissions across the hospital network. |
| AES-256 | Advanced Encryption Standard (256-bit) | A symmetric encryption algorithm used for ransomware to encrypt hospital files. AES-256 is considered cryptographically unbreakable. |
| EDR | Endpoint Detection and Response | A security tool that monitors endpoints (computers, servers) for malicious activity in real time. |
| GPO | Group Policy Object | A Windows mechanism to deploy settings and scripts across all computers in a domain. |
| HIS | Hospital Information System | The central electronic patient record and clinical management system. |
| LIS | Laboratory Information System | The system that transmits lab results from analyzers to patient records in the HIS. |
| NAS | Network Attached Storage | A network-connected backup device. |
| PACS | Picture Archiving and Communication System | The radiology system that stores and displays medical imaging (X-rays, CT scans, MRIs). |
| PAM | Privileged Access Management | A security system that controls and monitors access to administrative accounts. |
| RAID | Redundant Array of Independent Disks | A data storage technology that combines multiple disks for redundancy or performance. |
| SMART | Self-Monitoring, Analysis and Reporting Technology | A monitoring system built into hard drives that reports health status. |
| VLAN | Virtual Local Area Network | A logically separated network segment. The hospital's medical devices run on a dedicated Medical Device VLAN, which keeps them isolated from the main network. |