Glossary
User Guide
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Glossary
Authentication
Authentication is the process of identifying an individual, usually based on a username and
password. In security systems, authentication is distinct from authorization, which is the pro-
cess of giving individuals access to system objects based on their identity. Authentication
merely ensures that the individual is who he or she claims to be, but says nothing about the
access rights of the individual. (Source: www.webopedia.com)
Break Signal
A break signal is generated in an RS-232 serial line by keeping the line in zero for longer than
a character time. Breaks at a serial console port are interpreted by Sun servers as a signal to
suspend operation and switch to monitor mode.
Console Access Server (CAS)
A CAS has an Ethernet LAN connection and many RS-232 serial ports. It connects to the con-
sole ports of servers and networking equipment and allows convenient and secure access
from a single location.
Console Port
Most of the equipment in a data center (servers, routers, switches, UPS, PBX, etc.) has a serial
console port for out-of-band management purposes.
Cluster
A cluster is a group of one or more computers working as a group to execute a certain task.
From the user standpoint, a cluster acts as a large computer system.
Flash
Flash refers to a type of memory that can be erased and reprogrammed in units of memory
known as blocks rather than one byte at a time; thus, making updating to memory easier.
In-band network management
In a computer network, when the management data is accessed using the same network that
carries the data, this is called “in-band management.”
