Glossary
MAC (media access control)
The data link layer sublayer responsible for scheduling, transmitting, and receiving data on a shared medium local area network.
mask
Specified a subset of a larger set of data to be included for comparison and analysis. For example, in switch filtering, a mask might be configured to include only the first four address bits as the basis for filtering decisions.
Mbps (megabits per second)
1 million bits per second.
MIB (management information base)
A collection of objects unique to a specific device that can be accessed via a network management protocol. The
multicast
Packets destined for more than one address.
multicast (broadcast) storm
Excessive multicast packet traffic, typically generated by a faulty device. Multicast storms can cause severe network performance problems.
network
Interconnected computer systems, terminals, and data communication facilities. A network must have at least three endpoints and may have any number of links and nodes.
node
Any device connected to a communication network, for example a computer, workstation, printer, server, concentrator, bridge, and switch.