Hacking is the violation of server or network security via exploitation of weaknesses in that security.
Hacking is the violation of server or network security via exploitation of weaknesses in that security.
Some of the most common ways security may be compromised include:
- Social engineering, in which a person is persuaded to give up sensitive information such as passwords
- Exploiting unpatched or not generally known (0-day) security holes in software
- Brute force, that is, trying common usernames and passwords repeatedly until something works
Less commonly, hacking refers to the uncommonly creative solution of a software or hardware problem. Some see this original definition as the correct one and wish to preserve it, though they seem to be fighting a losing battle.
Detailed security questions and answers which do not fit at Server Fault may be welcome at IT Security Stack Exchange.
