Glossary · Device

IoT

Internet of Things

In plain language

Everyday gadgets that connect to the internet, such as cameras, smart thermostats and printers.

The metaphor

Like a house full of small appliances that each quietly check in with a distant company: handy, and each is another door.

Going deeper

How it works

They are rarely updated and often ship with a default password.
Many cannot run security software.
Keep them on their own network away from your computers.
Replace ones the maker no longer supports.

What can go wrong (example scenario)

A clinic's security camera had its factory password and sat on the main network. It was found by an automated scan and used as a stepping stone to the office computers.

How WILDCARD handles it

Network covers the firewall and switch where these gadgets are kept on a separate network from your computers.

In practice

A shop puts its cameras on a separate network.
An office changes the default password on every smart device.
A clinic retires an old camera that no longer receives updates.

A question owners ask

What is the one thing to do?

Change the default password and keep them off the network your computers use.

Where WILDCARD handles this

Network

Firewall managed and monitored
Switches kept current
On-prem Active Directory auth

Start with Network

Related terms

Something here sounds like your problem?

Every WILDCARD card exists to solve one named problem. Find yours.

Pick your problem →