For different perspectives on hacking, CNN Interactive posed a series of questions via e-mail to two experts in the field, one a computer security expert for IBM, the other, editor of 2600, the Hackers' Quarterly.

'Hackers are necessary'

(CNN) -- Emmanuel Goldstein is the editor-in-chief of 2600: The Hacker Quarterly and hosts a weekly radio program in New York called "Off the Hook."

1. How do you define hacking?

Hacking is, very simply, asking a lot of questions and refusing to stop asking. This is why computers are perfect for inquisitive people -- they don't tell you to shut up when you keep asking questions or inputting commands over and over and over. But hacking doesn't have to confine itself to computers. Anyone with an inquisitive mind, a sense of adventure and strong beliefs in free speech and the right to know most definitely has a bit of the hacker spirit in them.

2. Are there legal or appropriate forms of hacking?

One of the common misconceptions is that anyone considered a hacker is doing something illegal. It's a sad commentary on the state of our society when someone who is basically seeking knowledge and the truth is assumed to be up to something nefarious. Nothing could be further from the truth.

Full Interview

'Hacking is a felony'

(CNN) -- Dr. Charles C. Palmer is the manager of Network Security and Cryptography and head of the Global Security Analysis Lab, which includes IBM's ethical hacking unit.

1. How do you define hacking?

Hacking is unauthorized use of computer and network resources. (The term "hacker" originally meant a very gifted programmer. In recent years though, with easier access to multiple systems, it now has negative implications.)

2. Are there appropriate forms of hacking?

Hacking is a felony in the United States and most other countries. When it is done by request and under a contract between an ethical hacker and an organization, it's OK. The key difference is that the ethical hacker has authorization to probe the target.

Full Interview