“Scan” can refer to a process of examining or capturing information from a physical or digital source. Here are a few common uses:
- Document Scanning: Converting physical documents into digital formats using a scanner, allowing for easier storage, sharing, and retrieval.
- Image Scanning: Capturing images, photographs, or artwork using a scanner to create digital copies that can be edited or shared electronically.
- Barcode Scanning: Using a barcode scanner to read barcodes on products for inventory management, pricing, or identification purposes.
- QR Code Scanning: Using a smartphone or device to read Quick Response (QR) codes, which can link to websites, apps, or other digital content.
- Network Scanning: The process of searching for active devices on a network to identify their presence, IP addresses, and services.
- Security Scanning: Evaluating systems, networks, or software for vulnerabilities and weaknesses that could be exploited by cyberattacks.
- Medical Imaging Scans: Techniques like X-rays, CT scans, and MRI scans capture detailed images of the inside of the human body for diagnostic purposes.
- Malware Scanning: Checking files, programs, or websites for the presence of malware or malicious code that could harm computers or devices.
In various contexts, “scan” involves capturing information in a systematic and structured manner, often for the purpose of analysis, identification, or storage.
Key terms in plain language
Open a term for a concise explanation of language used on this page.
Cloud Computing
Computing resources—such as applications, servers, storage, or databases—delivered from remote infrastructure and scaled as requirements change.
Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)
Cloud-based servers, storage, and networking that customers configure and manage without owning the underlying data-center hardware.
Software as a Service (SaaS)
Software accessed as an online service instead of being installed and maintained entirely on the customer’s own computers or servers.
Disaster Recovery (DRaaS)
A plan and service for restoring applications, data, and operations after an outage or disruption. DRaaS provides recovery infrastructure through a managed cloud service.
Identity and Access Management (IAM)
The systems and policies that determine who a user is, what resources they may access, and how that access is authenticated and reviewed.
API
An application programming interface is a defined way for software systems to exchange data or request functions from one another.