Concept Guide

401 | Terminology Dell Networking W-Series Instant 6.4.3.1-4.2.0.0 | User Guide
Term Definition
DNS Server A Domain Name System (DNS) server functions as a phonebook for the
Internet and Internet users. It converts human readable computer
hostnames into IP addresses and vice-versa.
A DNS server stores several records for a domain name such as an
address 'A' record, name server (NS), and mail exchanger (MX) records.
The Address 'A' record is the most important record that is stored in a
DNS server, because it provides the required IP address for a network
peripheral or element.
DST Daylight saving time (DST), also known as summer time, is the practice
of advancing clocks, so that evenings have more daylight and mornings
have less. Typically clocks are adjusted forward one hour near the start
of spring and are adjusted backward in autumn.
EAP Extensible authentication protocol (EAP) refers to the authentication
protocol in wireless networks that expands on methods used by the
point-to-point protocol (PPP), a protocol often used when connecting a
computer to the Internet. EAP can support multiple authentication
mechanisms, such as token cards, smart cards, certificates, one-time
passwords, and public key encryption authentication.
fixed wireless Wireless devices or systems in fixed locations such as homes and
offices. Fixed wireless devices usually derive their electrical power from
the utility mains, unlike mobile wireless or portable wireless which tend
to be battery-powered. Although mobile and portable systems can be
used in fixed locations, efficiency and bandwidth are compromised
compared with fixed systems.
frequency allocation Use of radio frequency spectrum regulated by governments.
frequency spectrum Part of the electromagnetic spectrum.
hotspot A WLAN node that provides Internet connection and virtual private
network (VPN) access from a given location. A business traveler, for
example, with a laptop equipped for Wi-Fi can look up a local hot spot,
contact it, and get connected through its network to reach the Internet
and their own company remotely with a secure connection. Increasingly,
public places, such as airports, hotels, and coffee shops are providing
free wireless access for customers.
IEEE 802.11 standards The IEEE 802.11 is a set of standards that are categorized based on the
radio wave frequency and the data transfer rate.
POE Power over Ethernet (PoE) is a method of delivering power on the same
physical Ethernet wire used for data communication. Power for devices
is provided in one of the following two ways:
l Endspan— The switch that an AP is connected for power supply.
l Midspan— A device can sit between the switch and APs
Table 80: List of Terms