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DNS
(Domain Name System): A system that translates an Internet address (like
www.startech.com) into a proper IP address (like 192.168.2.1). A DNS server keeps a
database of Internet servers and their respective Internet and IP addresses, so that when
you type “www.startech.com” into your web browser, you are sent to the web site
located at 192.168.2.1, for example. Your ISP can provide you with the IP address of the
DNS server you use when connected to the Internet.
DSL Modem
(Digital Subscriber Line Modem): A device that provides a user with
Internet access using telephone lines to connect the computer to the Internet at high
speeds.
Dynamic IP Address:
A temporary IP address given to a PC/LAN client by the DHCP
server for the duration of an Internet session or some other established period of time.
The IP address is chosen at random from a pool of available IP addresses on the DHCP
server. When the session is concluded or the lease-time has expired, the IP address is
returned to the pool.
Encryption
: The transformation of data into encoded ciphertext to ensure data
transmission can not be accessed by users outside the network. Encryption uses an
encryption algorithm and encryption keys to encode and decode the information. See
also WEP.
Encryption Algorithm
: A formula used to convert data from understandable “plaintext”
into encoded “ciphertext.” Each algorithm uses a key (a string of bits) to perform the
calculations. The larger the key (most are 64 or 128-bits in length), the more difficult to
break the code.
ESSID
(Extended Service Set Identifier): The identifying name of an 802.11b network. An
ESS consists of two or more BSSes in the same subnet. In order to communicate with
each other, each wireless device must have the same ESSID.
Ethernet
: A popular network standard of communication using either twisted pair or
coaxial cables. The most widely used LAN access method, Ethernet networks are
connected by special cables and hubs, and can transfer data at speeds up to 10 or 100
million bits per second (Mbits/sec). Also known as IEEE 802.3.
Firewall
: A configurable program or hardware device that filters information coming to
your private network or computer from the Internet. If a firewall flags a packet of
information, it does not get through to your network or PC.
Firmware:
Programming that is inserted into a device’s read-only memory (ROM) to
become a permanent part of the device. Firmware upgrades are often provided to
upgrade or improve a hardware device.
IAPP
(Inter Access Point Protocol): A protocol that gives the necessary information that
wireless access points need to support roaming. IAPP automatically broadcasts
information about associate wireless clients. This aids roaming between wireless access
points.
Infrastructure Mode
: An 802.11 networking mode where wireless devices communicate
through a wireless access point, instead of directly with each other (Ad Hoc mode).
IP Address
(Internet Protocol Address): A unique number that identifies a device on a
network. IP addresses are expressed in decimal form as four numbers between 0 and 255
that are separated by periods. (Example: 192.168.2.1) See also: Dynamic IP Address, Static
IP Address, Public IP Address, Private IP Address.
Summary of Contents for WAP1011BB
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