56 G
LOSSARY
MAC address
Media Access Control address; also called hardware or physical address.
A layer 2 address associated with a particular network device. Most
devices that connect to a LAN have a MAC address assigned to them
as they are used to identify other devices in a network. MAC addresses
are 6 bytes long.
MDI
Medium Dependent Interface. An Ethernet port connection where the
transmitter of one device is connected to the receiver of another
device.
MDI-X
Medium Dependent Interface Cross-over. An Ethernet port connection
where the internal transmit and receive lines are crossed.
multicast
A packet sent to a specific group of endstations on a network.
NIC
Network Interface Card. A circuit board installed in an endstation that
allows it to be connected to a network.
POST
Power On Self Test. An internal test that a Switch carries out when it is
powered-up.
protocol
A set of rules for communication between devices on a network. The
rules dictate format, timing, sequencing and error control.
repeater
A simple device that regenerates LAN traffic so that the transmission
distance of that signal can be extended. Repeaters are used to connect
two LANs of the same network type.
router
A device that provides WAN links between geographically separate
networks.
RPS
Redundant Power System. A device that provides a backup source of
power when connected to a Switch.
segment
A section of a LAN that is connected to the rest of the network using a
switch or bridge.
server
A computer in a network that is shared by multiple endstations. Servers
provide endstations with access to shared network services such as
computer files and printer queues.
SLIP
Serial Line Internet Protocol. A protocol that allows IP to run over a
serial line (console port) connection.
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