What is a hacker?

A hacker is defined primarily as an individual who attempts unauthorized access to computer systems or networks. This definition highlights the intent behind hacking, which often revolves around exploiting vulnerabilities for various motives, including mischief, theft, or even challenges to security systems.

While some hackers may possess technical skills similar to those of cybersecurity professionals, their actions are considered unauthorized when they breach systems without permission. This distinction is crucial in cybersecurity, as the legality and ethics of access heavily depend on whether it is sanctioned by the system owner.

In the context of this question, options relating to authorized access or roles within cybersecurity do not accurately describe the core essence of what constitutes a hacker, which is fundamentally linked to the act of breaching security protocols without authorization. This is a key understanding in the field of cybersecurity, as it helps differentiate between ethical hackers, who operate within legal frameworks, and those who do not.