Chapter 5 Networking Concepts Key Terms

LC Connector

(Lucent Connector) A miniaturized version of the fiber-optic SC connector. It looks somewhat like the SC, but is half the size with a 1.25mm ferrule instead of 2.5mm.

SC Connector

(Standard Connector, Subscriber Connector) A fiber-optic cable connector that uses a push-pull latching mechanism similar to common audio and video cables. For bi-directional transmission, two fiber cables and two SC connectors (Dual SC) are used. SC is specified by the TIA as FOCIS-3.

ST Connector

(Straight Tip connector) A fiber-optic cable connector that uses a bayonet plug and socket. It was the first de facto standard connector for most commercial wiring. For bi-directional transmission, two fiber cables and two ST connectors are used. ST is specified by the TIA as FOCIS-2.

802.11 Wlan protocol

802.11 and 802.11x refers to a family of specifications developed by the IEEE for wireless LAN (WLAN) technology. 802.11 specifies an over-the-air interface between a wireless client and a base station or between two wireless clients.

DHCP server

A DHCP Server is a network server that automatically provides and assigns IP addresses, default gateways and other network parameters to client devices. It relies on the standard protocol known as Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol or DHCP to respond to broadcast queries by clients.

NIC

A Network Interface Card (NIC) is a computer hardware component that allows a computer to connect to a network. NICs may be used for both wired and wireless connections. A NIC is also known as a network interface controller (NIC)

SVI

A Switched Virtual Interface (SVI) is a virtual interface (and port) that transmits only untagged-vlan packets for a managed switch.

VLAN

A VLAN is a group of devices on one or more LANs that are configured to communicate as if they were attached to the same wire, when in fact they are located on a number of different LAN segments. Because VLANs are based on logical instead of physical connections, they are extremely flexible.

Web Server

A Web server is a program that uses HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) to serve the files that form Web pages to users, in response to their requests, which are forwarded by their computers' HTTP clients. ... All computers that host Web sites must have Web server programs.

Bridge

A bridge is a type of computer network device that provides interconnection with other bridge networks that use the same protocol. Bridge devices work at the data link layer of the Open System Interconnect (OSI) model, connecting two different networks together and providing communication between them.

Fiber-optic cable

A cable that transmits data at close to the speed of light along glass or plastic fibers.

Cellular

A cellular network or mobile network is a communication network where the last link is wireless. The network is distributed over land areas called "cells", each served by at least one fixed-location transceiver, but more normally, three cell sites or base transceiver stations.

client-server roles

A client-server network is designed for end-users, called clients, to access resources such as files, songs, video collections, or some other service from a central computer called a server. A server's sole purpose is to do what its name implies - serve its clients!

Hub

A hub, also called a network hub, is a common connection point for devices in a network. Hubs are devices commonly used to connect segments of a LAN. The hub contains multiple ports. When a packet arrives at one port, it is copied to the other ports so that all segments of the LAN can see all packets.

LAN

A local-area network (LAN) is a computer network that spans a relatively small area. Most often, a LAN is confined to a single room, building or group of buildings, however, one LAN can be connected to other LANs over any distance via telephone lines and radio waves.

Mail Server

A mail server (sometimes also referred to an e-mail server) is a server that handles and delivers e-mail over a network, usually over the Internet. A mail server can receive e-mails from client computers and deliver them to other mail servers.

Multimeter

A measuring instrument for current, voltage, and resistance

MAN

A metropolitan area network (MAN) is a network that interconnects users with computer resources in a geographic area or region larger than that covered by even a large local area network (LAN) but smaller than the area covered by a wide area network (WAN).

Mobile hotspot and tethering

A mobile hotspot is an ad hoc wireless access point that is created by a dedicated hardware device or a smartphone feature that shares the phone's cellular data. Mobile hotspots are also known as portable hotspots. ... Another option is using a smartphone to connect other devices.

Repeater

A network device used to regenerate or replicate a signal. ... Analog repeaters frequently can only amplify the signal while digital repeaters can reconstruct a signal to near its original quality. In a data network, a repeater can relay messages between subnetworks that use different protocols or cable types.

Switch

A network switch is networking hardware that connects devices on a computer network by using packet switching to receive, and forward data to the destination device

port number

A numeric value used as an identifier to applications and services on TCP/IP systems.

PAN

A personal area network (PAN) is a computer network for interconnecting devices centered on an individual person's workspace. A PAN provides data transmission among devices such as computers, smartphones, tablets and personal digital assistants.

Print Server

A print server is a computer that can process print-related jobs on a network of computers. Print servers are connected to a computer network in order to serve the need for printing jobs in a network that may contain more than one printer.

Proxy Server

A proxy server is a computer system or router that functions as a relay between client and server. It helps prevent an attacker from invading a private network and is one of several tools used to build a firewall. The word proxy means "to act on behalf of another," and a proxy server acts on behalf of the user.

Router

A router is a networking device that forwards data packets between computer networks. ... A packet is typically forwarded from one router to another router through the networks that constitute an internetwork (e.g. the Internet) until it reaches its destination node.

Punch down tool

A tool used in a wiring closet to connect cable wires directly to a patch panel.

Crimper

A tool used to attach a terminator or connector to the end of a cable.

Cable tester

A tool used to test a cable to find out if it is good or to find out what type of cable it is if the cable is not labeled.

Wire stripper

A tool used when terminating a cable. The tool cuts away the plastic jacket or coating around the wires in a cable so that a connector can be installed on the end of the cable.

VPN

A virtual private network extends a private network across a public network, and enables users to send and receive data across shared or public networks as if their computing devices were directly connected to the private network.

Wireless access point

A wireless access point (WAP) is a hardware device or configured node on a local area network (LAN) that allows wireless capable devices and wired networks to connect through a wireless standard, including Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.

WLAN

A wireless local area network (WLAN) is a wireless distribution method for two or more devices that use high-frequency radio waves and often include an access point to the Internet. A WLAN allows users to move around the coverage area, often a home or small office, while maintaining a network connection.

WMN

A wireless mesh network (WMN) is a mesh network created through the connection of wireless access points installed at each network user's locale. Each network user is also a provider, forwarding data to the next node.

Bluetooth

Allows electronic devices like cell phones and computers to exchange data over short distances using radio waves

Authentication Server

An authentication server is an application that facilitates authentication of an entity that attempts to access a network. Such an entity may be a human user or another server. An authentication server can reside in a dedicated computer, an Ethernet switch, an access point or a network access server.

RJ-45 connector

An eight-position connector that uses all four pairs of wires. It is usually used for network connectivity

tone generator

An electronic device that sends an electrical signal through one set of UTP cables.

IDS

An intrusion detection system is a device or software application that monitors a network or systems for malicious activity or policy violations. Any malicious activity or violation is typically reported either to an administrator or collected centrally using a security information and event management system.

embedded system

An operating system that combines processors and software in a device.

Satellite

Any object that orbits around another object in space

SMF and MMF

Both MMF (multi-mode fiber) and SMF (single-mode fiber) are types of optical fiber that can aid in communication applications. These thin strands of silica or glass will allow communication to occur between devices. The transmission of light between each end of the fiber is what enables communication to occur.

DSL

DSL is defined as an abbreviation that stands for digital subscriber line which is defined as the way a computer connects to the Internet at high speeds using telephone lines. An example of DSL is the phone service that might be down when your Internet connection isn't working.

DNS server

Domain Name Servers (DNS) are the Internet's equivalent of a phone book. They maintain a directory of domain names and translate them to Internet Protocol (IP) addresses. This is necessary because, although domain names are easy for people to remember, computers or machines, access websites based on IP addresses

Fiber

Fiber to the home (FTTH), also called "fiber to the premises" (FTTP), is the installation and use of optical fiber from a central point directly to individual buildings such as residences, apartment buildings and businesses to provide unprecedented high-speed Internet access.

Cloud-based network controller

In cloud-based networking, the entire network is in the cloud. This includes network management resources and physical hardware. Cloud-based networking is used to provide connectivity between applications and resources deployed in the cloud.

Firewall

In computing, a firewall is a network security system that monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules.

File Server

In the client/server model, a file server is a computer responsible for the central storage and management of data files so that other computers on the same network can access the files. ... A program or mechanism that enables the required processes for file sharing can also be called a file server.

IPS

Intrusion prevention is a preemptive approach to network security used to identify potential threats and respond to them swiftly. Like an intrusion detection system (IDS), an intrusion prevention system (IPS) monitors network traffic.

Line of Sight Wireless

Line of sight (LoS) is a type of propagation that can transmit and receive data only where transmit and receive stations are in view of each other without any sort of an obstacle between them. FM radio, microwave and satellite transmission are examples of line-of-sight communication.

Patch panel

Patch panels are network ports held together within telecommunication closets that connect incoming and outgoing local area network (LAN) lines or other communication, electronic and electrical systems. ... Patch panels permit circuits to be arranged and rearranged by plugging and unplugging respective patch cords.

Ethernet over Power

Power over Ethernet (PoE) is a technology for wired Ethernet local area networks (LANs) that allows the electrical current necessary for the operation of each device to be carried by the data cables rather than by power cords. Doing so minimizes the number of wires that must be strung in order to install the network.

Power over Ethernet

Power over Ethernet (PoE) is a technology for wired Ethernet local area networks (LANs) that allows the electrical current necessary for the operation of each device to be carried by the data cables rather than by power cords. Doing so minimizes the number of wires that must be strung in order to install the network.

RFID

RFID (radio frequency identification) is a form of wireless communication that incorporates the use of electromagnetic or electrostatic coupling in the radio frequency portion of the electromagnetic spectrum to uniquely identify an object, animal or person.

1G/2G, 2.5G, 3G, 3.5G, 4G, LTE, and 5G

Simply, the "G" stands for "GENERATION" . While you connected to internet, the speed of your internet is depends upon the signal strength that has been shown in alphabets like 2G, 3G, 4G etc. right next to the signal bar on your home screen. Each Generation is defined as a set of telephone network standards , which detail the technological implementation of a particular mobile phone system. The speed increases and the technology used to achieve that speed also changes. For eg, 1G offers 2.4 kbps, 2G offers 64 Kbps and is based on GSM, 3G offers 144 kbps-2 mbps whereas 4G offers 100 Mbps - 1 Gbps and is based on LTE technology .

Syslog server

Syslog is a way for network devices to send event messages to a logging server - usually known as a Syslog server. The Syslog protocol is supported by a wide range of devices and can be used to log different types of events.

TCP

TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) is a standard that defines how to establish and maintain a network conversation via which application programs can exchange data. TCP works with the Internet Protocol (IP), which defines how computers send packets of data to each other

NFC

Technology that allows two devices to share information by touching

STP

The Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) is a network protocol that builds a loop-free logical topology for Ethernet networks. The basic function of STP is to prevent bridge loops and the broadcast radiation that results from them.

WiFi analyzer

Tool for checking/diagnosing issues on a wireless network.

T568A/T568B

Two wiring standards used for twistedpair cables. They identify specific pins for specific colored wires. Straight-through cables should use one standard or the other on both connectors for a cable.

Endpoint management server

Unified Endpoint Management is a class of software tools that provide a single management interface for mobile, PC and other devices. It is an evolution of, and replacement for, mobile device management and enterprise mobility management and client management tools

UTM

Unified threat management is an approach to information security where a single hardware or software installation provides multiple security functions. This contrasts with the traditional method of having point solutions for each security function.

UTP

Unshielded twisted pair. Cable type used in networks that do not have any concerns over EMI, RFI, or cross talk. If these are a concern, STP is used.

UDP

User Datagram Protocol. Used instead of TCP when guaranteed delivery of each packet is not necessary. UDP uses a best-effort delivery mechanism.

Z-wave

Z-Wave is a wireless network designed by Zensys Inc. to provide communication between devices in a home control network. Z-Wave may be used to control lights, heating and air conditioning, and appliances and home security, among other functions.

Zigbee

ZigBee is an open global standard for wireless technology designed to use low-power digital radio signals for personal area networks. ZigBee operates on the IEEE 802.15.4 specification and is used to create networks that require a low data transfer rate, energy efficiency and secure networking.

loopback

a type of interface not assigned to a physical port, and which is always up, and sometime used for testing

Cable

an insulated wire or wires having a protective casing and used for transmitting electricity or telecommunication signals.

legacy system

an old system that is fast approaching or beyond the end of its useful life within an organization

coaxial cable

insulated copper wire; used to carry high-speed data traffic and television signals

Wire cutter

used to strip and cut wires