What main aspect differentiates an outside hacker from an inside hacker?

The differentiation between an outside hacker and an inside hacker hinges on the nature of access each type possesses regarding a particular system or network. An outside hacker typically gains unauthorized access to a system from an external source. This implies that they do not have any privileges or rights granted by the organization, often employing various methods such as exploiting security vulnerabilities, phishing, or brute-force attacks to breach the system's defenses.

While those who work within an organization, known as insiders, might have legitimate access or an understanding of the system, outside hackers are fundamentally characterized by their lack of approved access and their intention to compromise security from outside the organization. Thus, their activities focus on breaching security without permission.

The other aspects presented in the choices do not adequately capture the critical distinction between the two types of hackers. For instance, an insider typically does have legitimate access, while an outsider does not, which further underlines the fundamental differences in their status concerning the organization they target. Moreover, not all insiders resort to using sophisticated tools, as their access might allow them to exploit their position without needing complex methods. Understanding this primary characteristic of unauthorized access is vital in differentiating these two roles in cybersecurity contexts.