A Matter of Definition: Common E-Mail Terms

Microsoft Gold Certified: Microsoft offers a Gold level of certification in many different applications, including Exchange, .Net, Windows, and more. The Gold Certification process is based on a complex formula that combines many metrics that apply to the provider. These include the provider’s number of Microsoft Certified Professionals and customer references, confirmation of the provider’s technical expertise, and the volume of Microsoft licenses it has sold.

Phishing: This is the act of attempting to fraudulently acquire sensitive information, such as passwords and credit card details, by masquerading as a trustworthy person or business with a real need for such information. Generally, “phishers” use seemingly official electronic notifications or messages (most often an e-mail or an instant message).

SaaS (Software as a Service): This is any software application delivery model where a provider hosts and operates the application for use by its customers over the Internet. Customers pay not for owning the software but for using it in a “subscription model.” Hosted e-mail /e-messaging is an example of SaaS.