6.5

Table Of Contents
Glossary
Active
The functional state or role of a server when it is visible to clients through the network, running protected
applications, and servicing client requests.
Alert
A notication provided by vCenter Server Heartbeat sent to a user or entered into the system log indicating
an exceeded threshold.
Active Directory (AD)
Presents applications with a single, simplied set of interfaces so users can locate and use directory
resources from a variety of networks while bypassing dierences between proprietary services. vCenter
Server Heartbeat switchovers and failovers require no changes to AD resulting in switchover/failover
times typically measured in seconds.
Active–Passive
The coupling of two servers with one server visible to clients on a network and providing application
service while the other server is not visible and not providing application service to clients.
Advanced Conguration and Power Interface (ACPI)
A specication that dictates how the operating system can interact with the hardware especially where
power saving schemes are used. The Primary and Secondary servers must have identical ACPI compliance.
Asynchronous
A process whereby replicated data is applied (written) to the passive server independently of the active
server.
Basic Input/Output System (BIOS)
The program a personal computer's microprocessor uses to get the computer system started after you turn
it on. It also manages data ow between the computer's operating system and attached devices such as
the hard disk, video adapter, keyboard, mouse, and printer.
Cached Credentials
Locally stored security access credentials used to log into a computer system when a Domain Controller
is not available.
Channel Drop
An event in which the dedicated communications link between servers fails, often resulting in the passive
server becoming active and consequently creating a split-brain syndrome.
Channel NIC (Network Interface Card)
A dedicated NIC used by the VMware Channel.
Checked
The status reported for user account credential (username/password) validation.
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