The spelling of "computer hackers" is straightforward, with each syllable pronounced clearly. The word begins with the stressed "kuhm-pyoo" syllable, followed by the unstressed "ter" syllable, and ends with the stressed "hak-erz" syllables. The "a" in "hacker" is pronounced as "æ" like in "cat" and "hackers" is pronounced with a short "a" sound as in "hack". Computer hackers are individuals who use their technical skills to gain unauthorized access to computer systems for various purposes, including theft and sabotage.
Computer hackers are individuals with advanced technological skills who possess the ability to breach computer systems, networks, and software, often with a combination of technical expertise, creativity, and persistence. They possess an in-depth understanding of computer systems, programming languages, and networking protocols, which they employ to gain unauthorized access to digital systems.
The primary motivation of computer hackers varies greatly. While some undertake hacking activities with the intention of achieving personal gain or financial profit, others may engage in hacking for ideological reasons or simply for the challenge it presents.
Hackers typically employ a diverse range of techniques, tools, and methodologies to exploit vulnerabilities present within computer systems. This may involve the use of malware, such as viruses or worms, to compromise target systems or to gain control over them remotely. Other common hacking techniques can include social engineering, network scanning, phishing attacks, and brute force attacks, among many others.
It is important to differentiate between hackers and so-called "crackers." While hackers seek to understand and explore computer systems and networks, often for positive reasons such as improving security measures or troubleshooting vulnerabilities, crackers engage in malicious activities such as data theft, system damage, or unauthorized access for the purpose of creating chaos or committing cybercrimes.
Efforts to protect against hackers involve implementing strict security measures, such as firewalls, encryption, access controls, and regular software updates. Professional hackers, known as "ethical hackers" or "white hat hackers," are often employed by organizations to identify potential vulnerabilities in their systems before malicious hackers exploit them.
The term "computer hacker" has an interesting etymology that has evolved over time. Originally, the word "hacker" was used in the field of electrical engineering at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) during the early 1960s. It referred to individuals who applied ingenuity to modify or enhance existing technology, often through innovative and unconventional methods.
The word "hack" itself had been used in the tech community for years before computers even existed, referring to the act of solving a problem in a quick and clever manner. The term was borrowed from the world of model trains, where "hacking" meant modifying the system to add features or improve performance.
In the early days of computing, particularly in the 1960s and 1970s, computer hackers emerged as a community of technologically adept individuals who had a deep interest in understanding and exploring computer systems. These hackers were largely motivated by intellectual curiosity rather than malicious intent.