User`s manual

AAL5

ATM Adaptation Layer - This layer maps higher layer user data into ATM cells, making the data

suitable for transport through the ATM network.

ADSL

Asymmetric digital subscriber line

ATM

Asynchronous Transfer Mode - A cell-based data transfer technique in which channel demand

determines packet allocation. ATM offers fast packet technology, real time, demand led switching

for efficient use of network resources.

AWG

American Wire Gauge - The measurement of thickness of a wire

Bridge

A device connects two or more physical networks and forwards packets between them. Bridges

can usually be made to filter packets, that is, to forward only certain traffic. Related devices are:

repeaters which simply forward electrical signals from one cable to the other, and full-fledged

routers which make routing decisions based on several criteria.

Broadband

Characteristic of any network multiplexes independent network carriers onto a single cable.

Broadband technology allows several networks to coexist on one single cable; traffic from one

network does not interfere with traffic from another. Broadcast A packet delivery system where a

copy of a given packet is given to all hosts attached to the network. Example: Ethernet.

Central Office. Refers to equipment located at a Telco or service provider's office.

CPE

Customer Premises Equipment located in a user's premises

DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol)

DHCP is software that automatically assigns IP addresses to client stations logging onto a TCP/IP

network. DHCP eliminates having to manually assign permanent IP addresses to every device on