Industry-specific words in the field of IT are terms and phrases that are commonly used in the industry, but that may not be familiar to people outside of the field. By using these words in conversation, it is like showing a passport to identify yourself as someone who is immersed in IT terminology. 

We've picked out a few crucial words to make you look like a tech whiz.

Agile: Agile is a term that refers to a method of project management that is based on iterative and incremental development. In agile methodologies, teams work in short, flexible cycles, and deliver small increments of functionality at regular intervals.

API: API, or application programming interface, is a set of protocols, tools, and definitions that allow different software applications to interact with each other. APIs enable different systems to exchange data and functionality, and are commonly used in web and mobile development.

Cloud computing: Cloud computing is a term that refers to the delivery of computing resources and services over the internet, rather than on local servers or devices. Cloud computing enables organizations to access and use computing resources on-demand, and can provide cost savings and flexibility compared to traditional on-premises IT infrastructure.

DevOps: DevOps is a term that refers to the integration of development and operations teams to improve collaboration and efficiency in the software development process. DevOps practices focus on automating and streamlining the delivery of software, and can help organizations to release new features and updates more quickly and reliably.

Machine learning: Machine learning is a subset of artificial intelligence (AI) that involves the use of algorithms and statistical models to enable systems to learn from data and improve their performance over time. Machine learning is used in a variety of applications, such as image and speech recognition, natural language processing, and predictive analytics.

Big data: Big data is a term that refers to large, complex datasets that are too large or complex to be processed using traditional data processing tools and techniques. Big data often requires specialized technologies, such as distributed computing and data analytics, to extract value and insights from the data.

Blockchain: Blockchain is a decentralized, distributed database that is used to store and manage transactional data. Blockchain technology is used to create a tamper-evident and secure record of transactions, and is commonly associated with cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin.

Cybersecurity: Cybersecurity is the practice of protecting computer systems and networks from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction. Cybersecurity involves the use of technologies, processes, and controls to protect against cyber threats, and is a critical concern for organizations of all sizes.

Data science: Data science is a field that involves the extraction of insights and knowledge from large and complex datasets. Data scientists use techniques from statistics, mathematics, and computer science to analyze and interpret data, and to develop predictive models and algorithms.

IoT: IoT, or the Internet of Things, is a term that refers to the growing network of interconnected devices, sensors, and systems that are able to collect and exchange data over the internet. IoT technologies are used in a variety of applications, such as smart homes, connected cars, and industrial automation.

Kernel: In computer science, a kernel is the central part of an operating system (OS) that manages the system's resources and provides common services for other parts of the OS. The kernel is responsible for managing memory, processes, and devices, and is the foundation of an operating system.

Linux: Linux is a free and open-source operating system that is based on the Linux kernel. Linux is used in a wide range of applications, from servers and supercomputers, to embedded systems and mobile devices.

Natural language processing (NLP): Natural language processing (NLP) is a field of artificial intelligence (AI) that involves the use of algorithms and statistical models to enable computers to understand, interpret, and generate human language. NLP is used in a variety of applications, such as machine translation, text summarization, and sentiment analysis.

Open source: Open source is a term that refers to software that is freely available and can be used, modified, and distributed by anyone. Open-source software is typically developed and maintained by a community of contributors, and is often released under a license that allows users to access and modify the source code.

Scrum: Scrum is a term that refers to a framework for managing complex projects, and is commonly used in agile development methodologies. In Scrum, teams work in short, flexible cycles, and deliver small increments of functionality at regular intervals. Scrum emphasizes collaboration, adaptability, and transparency in the development process.

Algorithm: An algorithm is a set of steps or instructions that are used to solve a problem or perform a task. In computer science, algorithms are used to process and analyze data, and to make decisions and predictions based on the data.

Big O notation: Big O notation is a mathematical notation that is used to describe the computational complexity of algorithms. Big O notation provides a way to compare the performance of different algorithms, and can help to identify the most efficient algorithms for a given problem.

Embedded system: An embedded system is a computer system that is integrated into a larger system or device, and is designed to perform a specific task or function. Embedded systems are commonly used in a variety of applications, such as automotive, industrial, and medical systems.

High-performance computing (HPC): High-performance computing (HPC) is a term that refers to the use of specialized hardware and software to perform complex and computationally intensive tasks. HPC systems are commonly used in scientific research, engineering, and data analytics, and can provide significant performance improvements compared to more traditional computing systems.

Operating system (OS): An operating system (OS) is the software that manages a computer's resources and provides common services for other software. Operating systems provide a platform for other applications to run on, and are responsible for managing processes, memory, and devices.

Quality assurance (QA): Quality assurance (QA) is the practice of ensuring that a product or service meets certain standards of quality. In software development, QA involves testing and verifying that the software meets the requirements and specifications, and is free from defects and bugs.

Artificial intelligence (AI): Artificial intelligence (AI) is a field of computer science that involves the use of algorithms and statistical models to enable systems to mimic human intelligence and behavior. AI is used in a variety of applications, such as image and speech recognition, natural language processing, and predictive analytics.

Data mining: Data mining is a process of discovering patterns and relationships in large datasets. Data mining techniques are used to extract valuable insights and knowledge from data, and can be applied in a variety of fields, such as marketing, finance, and healthcare.

Object-oriented programming (OOP): Object-oriented programming (OOP) is a programming paradigm that is based on the concept of "objects" that contain data and behavior. OOP languages, such as Java and C++, are designed to enable the creation of reusable and modular code, and are commonly used in software development.

Service-oriented architecture (SOA): Service-oriented architecture (SOA) is a software architecture that is based on the concept of building applications as a collection of independent, modular services. SOA enables the creation of flexible and scalable systems, and is commonly used in web and enterprise application development.

User experience (UX): User experience (UX) is a term that refers to the overall experience of a user with a product or service. In software development, UX design involves creating user interfaces and interactions that are intuitive, efficient, and enjoyable for the user.

Virtualization: Virtualization is a technique that enables the creation of virtual versions of computer resources, such as servers, storage, and networks. Virtualization can provide cost savings and flexibility, as it enables the use of multiple virtual resources on a single physical hardware platform.

Database: A database is a structured collection of data that is stored and managed in a computer system. Databases are used to store and manage data, and to provide access to the data for a variety of applications and users.

Now go and show off!