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Glossary
protocol
A set of rules used by computers and related devices to communicate with each other.
protocol suite
A group of protocols related to a common framework.
RARP (reverse address resolution protocol)
A protocol that binds MAC addresses to specific IP addresses.
RISC (Reduced Instruction Set Computing)
A data processing technology in which functions are performed using the least possible number of instructions to yield very fast processing.
segment
When two or more networks are interconnected to form an internetwork, the original networks are referred to as segments.
service
A set of functions offered to a user by a provider.
SNMP (simple network management protocol)
A TCP/IP protocol for communication between a network management system and a network device.
source address filtering
A switch or bridge function that forwards or rejects data, depending on the data's source address.
static address
Addresses manually entered into the Bridge Address Table (as opposed to those automatically learned by the
STP (spanning tree protocol)
A protocol that ensures that only one path will be used between two devices; prevents active loops (multiple paths to devices), by closing redundant paths. With STP operating, a redundant link serves as a backup link only if a normal path fails.