User's Manual

14
Chapter 3 Glossary
AP (Access Point)
An internetworking device that seamlessly connects wired and wirelesses networks. Access Points
combined with a distributed system support the creation of multiple radio cells that enable roaming
throughout a facility.
Ad Hoc
A network composed solely of stations within mutual communication range of each other (no
access point).
Channel
An instance of medium use for the purpose of passing protocol data units that may be used
simultaneously, in the same volume of space, with other instances of medium use (on other
channels) by other instances of the same physical layer, with an acceptably low frame error ratio
due to mutual interference.
Ethernet
The most widely used LAN access method, which is defined by the IEEE 802.3 standard. Ethernet
is normally a shared media LAN meaning all devices on the network segment share total
bandwidth. Ethernet networks operate at 10Mbps using CSMA/CD to run over 10-BaseT cables.
Gateway
A network component that acts as an entrance to another network.
IEEE 802.11
IEEE 802.xx is a set of specifications for LANs from the Institute of Electrical and Electronic
Engineers (IEEE). Most wired networks conform to 802.3, the specification for CSMA/CD based
Ethernet networks or 802.5, the specification for token ring networks. 802.11 defines the standard
for wireless LANs encompassing three incompatible (non-interoperable) technologies: Frequency
Hopping Spread Spectrum (FHSS), Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum (DSSS), and Infrared.
Infrastructure
A wireless network centered about an access point. In this environment, the access point not only
provides communication with the wired network but also mediates wireless network traffic in the
immediate neighborhood.
IP (Internet Protocol)
The TCP/IP standard protocol that defines the IP datagram as the unit of information passed across
an Internet and provides the basis for connectionless packet delivery service. IP includes the ICMP
control and error message protocol as an integral part. It provides the functional equivalent of ISO
OSI Network Services.
IP Address
An IP address is a 32-bit number that identifies each sender or receiver of information that is sent
across the Internet. An IP address has two parts: the identifier of a particular network on the
Internet and an identifier of the particular device (which can be a server or a workstation) within
that network.