13
DHCP
Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol - a method in which IP addresses are assigned by
a server dynamically to clients on the network. DHCP is used for dynamic IP addressing
and requires a dedicated DHCP server on the network.
DSSS
Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum. This is the method the wireless adapters use to
transmit data over the frequency spectrum. An alternative method is frequency hopping.
Direct sequence spreads the data over one frequency range (channel) while frequency
hopping jumps from one narrow frequency band to another many times per second.
ESSiD
An infrastructure configuration could also support roaming capability for mobile workers.
More than one BSS can be configured as an extended service set (ESS). Users within
an ESS can roam freely between BSSs while served as a continuous connection to the
network wireless stations and access points within an ESS must be configured with the
same ESSID and the same radio channel.
Ethernet
Ethernet is a 10/IOOMbps network that runs over dedicated home/office wiring. Users
must be wired to the network at all times to gain access.
Gateway
A gateway is a hardware and software device that connects two dissimilar systems,
such as a LAN and a mainframe. In Internet terminology, a gateway is another name for
a router. Generally a gateway is used as a funnel for all traffic to the Internet.
IEEE
Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers
Infrastructure
An integrated wireless and wired LAN is called an infrastructure configuration.
Infrastructure is applicable on an enterprise scale for wireless access to a central
database, or wireless application for mobile workers.
ISM Band
The FCC and their counterparts outside of the U.S. have set aside bandwidth for
unlicensed use in the so-called ISM (Industrial, Scientific and Medical) band. Spectrum
in the vicinity of 2.4 GHz, in particular, is being made available worldwide. This presents
a truly revolutionary opportunity to place convenient highspeed wireless capabilities in
the hands of users around the globe.
LAN
Local Area Network. A LAN is a group of computers, each equipped with the
appropriate network adapter adapter connected by cable/air that share applications,
data, and peripherals. All connections are made via cable or wireless media, but a LAN
does not use telephone services. It typically spans a single building or campus.
Network
A network is a system of computers that is connected. Data, files, and messages can be
transmitted over this network. Networks may be local or wide area networks.
