GLOSSARY 167
DHCP Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol. This protocol automatically assigns an IP address for every computer on your network. Windows 95, Windows 98, Windows NT 4.0, Windows 2000, Windows XP, and Windows Vista contain software that assigns IP addresses to workstations on a network. These assignments are made by the DHCP server software that runs on Windows operating systems.
DNS Server Address DNS stands for Domain Name System, which allows Internet host computers to have a domain name (such as 3com.com) and one or more IP addresses (such as 192.34.45.8). A DNS server keeps a database of host computers and their respective domain names and IP addresses, so that when a domain name is requested (as in typing “3com.com” into your Internet browser), the user is sent to the proper IP address. The DNS server address used by the computers on your home network is the location of the DNS server your ISP has assigned.
DSL modem DSL stands for digital subscriber line. A DSL modem uses your existing phone lines to send and receive data at high speeds.
Encryption A method for providing a level of security to wireless data transmissions. The Router uses two levels of encryption; 40/64 bit and 128 bit. 128 bit is a more powerful level of encryption than 40/64 bit.
ESSID Extended Service Set Identifier. The ESSID is a unique identifier for your wireless network. You must have the same ESSID entered into the Router and each of it's wireless clients.
Ethernet A LAN specification developed jointly by Xerox, Intel and Digital Equipment Corporation. Ethernet networks use CSMA/CD to transmit packets at a rate of 10 Mbps over a variety of cables.
Ethernet Address See MAC address.
Fast Ethernet An Ethernet system that is designed to operate at 100 Mbps.
Firewall Electronic protection that prevents anyone outside of your network from seeing your files or damaging your computers.
