How is data referred to when it is moving from one computer or system to another over a network?

When data is moving from one computer or system to another over a network, it is referred to as "Data in Transit." This terminology indicates that the data is actively being transmitted across a network, whether it be via wired or wireless means. During this phase, it is vulnerable to various security threats such as interception or unauthorized access.

Understanding this concept is essential in cybersecurity because protective measures, such as using encryption protocols like SSL/TLS, are often implemented to safeguard data in transit. This ensures that even if the data is intercepted during transmission, it remains secure and confidential.

The other terms, such as "Data at Rest" and "Data in Use," refer to different states of data. Data at rest refers to data that is stored on devices, whereas data in use describes data currently being processed or accessed by applications or users. Data in transit specifically highlights the potential vulnerability of data during the transmission process, making it crucial for security measures to be in place to protect it.