glossary

DNS (Domain Name System)

Method for matching Internet domain names with IP addresses. When a Uniform Resource Locator (URL) is entered into a Web browser, a domain name server retrieves the corresponding IP address for the domain name specified (“name resolution”) and sends the request to the appropriate server. Domain names are convenient “handles” for IP addresses.

DSL (Digital Subscriber Line)

Transmits data bi-directionally at high speeds.

DSSS (Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum )

Generates a redundant bit pattern for each bit to be transmitted. This bit pattern is called a chip (or chipping code). The longer the chip, the greater the probability that the original data can be recovered. Even if one or more bits in the chip are damaged during transmission, statistical techniques embedded in the radio can recover the original data without the need for retransmission. To an unintended receiver, DSSS appears as low-power wideband noise and is rejected (ignored) by most narrowband receivers.

dynamic IP address

An IP address that is automatically assigned (typically by a DHCP server) in a TCP/IP network, as opposed to a static IP address.

ESS (Extended Service Set)

More than one wireless network.

ESSID (Extended Service Set Identification)

A unique name (or ID) used by users roaming among the multiple wireless networks. An infrastructure configuration can support roaming capability for mobile workers. More than one BSS can be configured as an ESS. Users within an ESS can roam freely between BSSs while served as a continuous connection to the network. Wireless stations and wireless access points within an ESS must be configured with the same ESSID and radio channel.

Ethernet

Protocol and cabling scheme allowing transfer of data at 10 Mbps.

Ethernet card

See NIC (Network Interface Card).

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