Glossary

L

Layer 2

Layer 3

LC

LDP

LIB

loopback

Layer 2 refers to the data link layer of the commonly referenced multilayered communication model, Open Systems Interconnection (OSI). The data link layer contains the address inspected by a bridge or switch. Layer 2 processing is faster than layer 3 processing, because less analysis of the packet is required.

Layer 3 refers to the network layer of the commonly referenced multilayered communication model, Open Systems Interconnection (OSI). The network layer is concerned with knowing the address of the neighboring nodes in the network, selecting routes and quality of service, and recognizing and forwarding to the transport layer incoming messages for local host domains.

A router is a Layer 3 device, although some newer switches also perform Layer 3 functions. The Internet Protocol (IP) address is a Layer 3 address.

line card. Line cards in the Cisco CRS-1 system are referred to as modular services cards (MSCs).

label distribution protocol. A standard protocol between MPLS-enabled routers to negotiate the labels (addresses) used to forward packets. The Cisco proprietary version of this protocol is the Tag Distribution Protocol (TDP).

Label Information Base. The table that contains the labels in use on the node.

Send the outgoing signals back to the receiving side for testing.

M

MAC address

Standardized data link layer address that is required for every port or device that connects to a LAN.

 

Other devices in the network use these addresses to locate specific ports in the network and to create

 

and update routing tables and data structures. MAC addresses are 6 bytes long and are controlled by

 

the IEEE. Also known as a hardware address, MAC layer address, and physical address.

mask

Pattern of bits used to reject or accept bit patterns in another set of data.

MBI

minimum boot image. Software image containing a kernel and minimum set of drivers and components

 

to boot a node.

Mbps

megabits per second. A bit rate expressed in millions of binary bits per second. 1 megabit = 220 bits, or

 

1,048,576 bits.

MIB

Management Information Base. Database of network management information that is used and

 

maintained by a network management protocol like Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP).

 

The value of an MIB object can be changed or retrieved using SNMP commands, usually through a GUI

 

network management system. MIB objects are organized in a tree structure that includes public

 

(standard) and private (proprietary) branches.

MPLS

Multiprotocol Label Switching. Switching method that forwards IP traffic using a label. This label

 

instructs the routers and switches in the network where to forward the packets based on pre-established

 

IP routing information

 

Cisco IOS XR Getting Started Guide

GL-6

OL-10957-02

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Cisco Systems Cisco IOS XR To boot a node, 048,576 bits, Standard and private proprietary branches, IP routing information