Glossary
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QoS Quality of Service. QoS refers to the capability of a network to provide better service to
selected traffic flows using features such as data prioritization, queuing, congestion
avoidance and traffic shaping. These features effectively provide preferential treatment to
specific flows either by raising the priority of one flow or limiting the priority of another
flow.
RADIUS Remote Authentication Dial-in User Service. RADIUS is a logon authentication protocol that
uses software running on a central server to control access to RADIUS-compliant devices on
the network.
RMON Remote Monitoring. RMON provides comprehensive network monitoring capabilities. It
eliminates the polling required in standard SNMP, and can set alarms on a variety of traffic
conditions, including specific error types.
RSTP Rapid Spanning Tree Protocol. RSTP reduces the convergence time for network topology
changes to about 10% of that required by the older IEEE 802.1D STP standard.
SMTP Simple Mail Transfer Protocol is a standard host-to-host mail transport protocol that
operates over TCP, port 25.
SNMP Simple Network Management Protocol. The application protocol in the Internet suite of
protocols which offers network management services.
SNTP Simple Network Time Protocol allows a device to set its internal clock based on periodic
updates from a Network Time Protocol (NTP) server. Updates can be requested from a
specific NTP server, or can be received via broadcasts sent by NTP servers.
SSH Secure Shell is a secure replacement for remote access functions, including Telnet. SSH can
authenticate users with a cryptographic key, and encrypt data connections between
management clients and the switch.
STA Spanning Tree Algorithm is a technology that checks your network for any loops. A loop can
often occur in complicated or backup linked network systems. Spanning Tree detects and
directs data along the shortest available path, maximizing the performance and efficiency
of the network.
TACACS+ Terminal Access Controller Access Control System Plus. TACACS+ is a logon authentication
protocol that uses software running on a central server to control access to TACACS-
compliant devices on the network.