D-Link DGS-1016D Manual page 34

CSMA/CD – Channel access method used by Ethernet and IEEE 802.3
standards, in which devices transmit only after finding the data channel clear for
some period of time. When two devices transmit simultaneously, a collision
occurs and the colliding devices delay their retransmissions for a random
amount of time.
Data Center Switching – The point of aggregation within a corporate network
where a switch provides high-performance access to server farms, a high-
speed backbone connection, and a control point for network management and
security.
Ethernet – A LAN specification developed jointly by Xerox, Intel, and Digital
Equipment Corporation. Ethernet networks operate at 10Mbps using CSMA/CD
to run over cabling.
Fast Ethernet – 100Mbps technology based on the Ethernet/CD network
access method.
Flow Control – (IEEE 802.3z) A means of holding packets back at the transmit
port of the connected end station. Prevents packet loss at a congested switch
port.
Forwarding – The process of sending a packet toward its destination by an
internetworking device.
Full-duplex – A system that allows packets to be transmitted and received at
the same time and, in effect, doubles the potential throughput of a link.
Half-duplex – A system that allows packets to be transmitted and received, but
not at the same time. Contrast with full-duplex.
IP address – Internet Protocol address. A unique identifier for a device
attached to a network using TCP/IP. The address is written as four octets
separated with full-stops (periods), and is made up of a network section, an
optional subnet section and a host section.
IPX – Internetwork Packet Exchange. A protocol allowing communication in a
NetWare network.
LAN – Local Area Network. A network of connected computing resources (such
as PCs, printers, servers) covering a relatively small geographic area (usually
not larger than a floor or building). Characterized by high data rates and low
error rates.
Latency – The delay between the time a device receives a packet and the time
the packet is forwarded out of the destination port.
Line speed – See baud rate.
Main port – The port in a resilient link that carries data traffic in normal
operating conditions.
MDI – Medium Dependent Interface. An Ethernet port connection where the
transmitter of one device is connected to the receiver of another device.
MDIX – Medium Dependent Interface Cross-over. An Ethernet port connection
where the internal transmit and receive lines are crossed.
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