Lantronix MSS1-T, Reference Manual

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Protocols Introduction
1 - 4
1.3 Protocols
A network protocol is a method of communicating over the Ethernet. Each protocol specifies a
certain arrangement of data in the Ethernet packets, and provides different services for its users.
The MSS supports the following protocols:
• TCP/IP
Support includes Telnet, Rlogin, UDP, and DNS. The Telnet terminal protocol,
supported on most UNIX systems, is an easy-to-use interface that creates terminal
connections to any network host supporting Telnet. Rlogin is a protocol that
allows users to initiate a TCP/IP login session. UDP (User Datagram Protocol) is a
connectionless protocol that results in smaller packet headers, no session over-
head, and the ability to send to multiple hosts. The MSS also supports the use of
Domain Name Servers (DNS), allowing a network nameserver to translate text
node names into numeric IP addresses.
The MSS also implements basic Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP)
functionality. SNMP commands enable users, usually system administrators, to
get information from and control other nodes on a local area network (LAN), and
respond to queries from other network hosts. The MSS allows configuration of
one community name with read/write access.
• IPX/ SPX (NetWare)
The MSS provides IPX/SPX access to the serial device from NetWare and any
other IPX/SPX nodes. It allows users to download system files from NetWare
hosts and log into the MSS via NetWare for remote configuration.
The MSS supports all four NetWare frame types: Ethernet v2, Native mode, 802.2,
and 802.2 SNAP.
• Local Area Transport (LAT)
LAT is a protocol developed by Digital Equipment Corporation (DEC) for local
network connections and is supported on most DEC operating systems. The MSS
provides logins to remote hosts and host-initiated connections, as well as access to
the MSS serial port from LAT hosts.
1.4 Software
The CD-ROM shipped with the MSS contains operational software. It also contains EZWebCon
software which can be used to configure the unit.
The MSS is equipped with Flash ROM, so it is not necessary to download software each time the
unit boots. Software must only be reloaded if there is a problem with the Flash ROM, or if a new
software version is released. See
Appendix E for more information.