McDATA Enterprise Operating System, User Manual

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Glossary g-9
Glossary
hub
(1) In Fibre Channel protocol, a device that connects nodes into a
logical loop by using a physical star topology. (2) In Ethernet, a device
used to connect the server platform and the directors or switches it
manages.
I
information message Message notifying a user that a function is performing normally or
has completed normally.
See also error message ; warning message .
initial program load IPL. The process of initializing the device and causing the operating
system to start. An IPL may be initiated through a menu option or a
hardware button.
interface (1) A shared boundary between two functional units, defined by
functional, signal, or other characteristics. The concept includes the
specification of the connection of two devices having different
functions
(T) . (2) Hardware, software, or both, that link systems,
programs, or devices (D) .
Internet protocol IP. Network layer for the transmission control protocol/Internet
protocol (TCP/IP) protocol used on Ethernet networks. IP provides
packet routing, fragmentation, and reassembly through the data link
layer
(D) .
Internet protocol
address
IP address. Unique string of numbers (in the format xxx.xxx.xxx.xxx)
that identifies a device on a network.
interoperability
Ability to communicate, execute programs, or transfer data between
various functional units over a network.
interswitch link ISL. Physical expansion port (E_Port) connection between two
directors or switches in a fabric.
IP See Internet protocol .
IP address See Internet protocol address .
IPL See initial program load .
ISL See interswitch link .