Appendix C

Glossary

CoS (Class of Service)  The 802.1p priority scheme. CoS provides a method for tagging packets with priority information. A CoS value between 0-7 is added to the Layer II header of packets, where zero is the lowest priority and seven is the highest.

DDNS (Dynamic Domain Name System)  Allows the hosting of a website, FTP server, or e-mail server with a fixed domain name (e.g., www.xyz.com) and a dynamic IP address.

Default Gateway  A device that forwards Internet traffic from your local area network.

DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol)  A networking protocol that allows administrators to assign temporary IP addresses to network computers by“leasing” an IP address to a user for a limited amount of time, instead of assigning permanent IP addresses.

DHCP Clients  An Internet host using DHCP to obtain configuration parameters, such as a network address.

DHCP Server  An Internet host that returns configuration parameters to DHCP clients.

DNS (Domain Name Server)  The IP address of your ISP’s server, which translates the names of websites into IP addresses.

Domain  A specific name for a network of computers. Download  To receive a file transmitted over a network.

DSL (Digital Subscriber Line)  An always-on broadband connection over traditional phone lines.

DSCP (DiffServ Code Point)  Provides a method of tagging IP packets with QoS priority information.

Dynamic IP Address  A temporary IP address assigned by a DHCP server.

EIGRP (Enhanced Interior Gateway Routing Protocol)  Provides fast convergence, support for variable- length subnet mask, and supports multiple network layer protocols.

Encryption  Encoding data transmitted in a network.

Ethernet  IEEE standard network protocol that specifies how data is placed on and retrieved from a common transmission medium.

Firmware  The programming code that runs a networking device.

Flow Control  Enables lower speed devices to communicate with higher speed devices. This is implemented by the higher speed device refraining from sending packets.

FTP (File Transfer Protocol)  A protocol used to transfer files over a TCP/IP network.

Full Duplex  The ability of a networking device to receive and transmit data simultaneously.

GARP (General Attributes Registration Protocol)  Registers client stations into a multicast domain.

Gateway  A device that interconnects networks with different, incompatible communications protocols.

GBIC (GigaBit Interface Converter)  A hardware module used to attach network devices to fiber-based transmission systems. GBIC converts the serial electrical signals to serial optical signals and vice versa.

GVRP (GARP VLAN Registration Protocol)  Registers client stations into a VLANs.

Half Duplex  Data transmission that can occur in two directions over a single line, but only one direction at a time.

HTTP (HyperText Transport Protocol)  The

communications protocol used to connect to servers on the World Wide Web.

HTTPS (HyperText Transport Protocol Secure)  An extension to the standard HTTP protocol that provides confidentiality by encrypting the traffic from the website. By default this protocol uses TCP port 443.

ICMP (Internet Control Message Protocol)  Allows the gateway or destination host to communicate with the source host. For example, to report a processing error.

IGMP (Internet Group Management Protocol)  Allows hosts to notify their local switch or router that they want to receive transmissions assigned to a specific multicast group.

IP (Internet Protocol)  A protocol used to send data over a network.

IP Address  The address used to identify a computer or device on a network.

IPCONFIG  A Windows 2000 and XP utility that displays the IP address for a particular networking device.

IPSec (Internet Protocol Security)  A VPN protocol used to implement secure exchange of packets at the IP layer.

ISP (Internet Service Provider)  A company that provides access to the Internet.

Jumbo Frames  Enable transporting identical data in fewer frames. Jumbo Frames reduce overhead, lower processing time, and ensure fewer interrupts.

LAG (Link Aggregated Group)  Aggregates ports or VLANs into a single virtual port or VLAN.

LAN  The computers and networking products that make up your local network.

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Linksys SLM224G4S manual Glossary

SLM224G4S specifications

The Linksys SLM224G4S is a sophisticated Layer 2 managed switch designed for businesses and institutions that demand high performance, reliability, and advanced networking features. This model stands out due to its blend of robustness and manageability, making it ideal for expanding networks.

One of the primary features of the SLM224G4S is its 24 Gigabit Ethernet ports, allowing for high-speed data transfers essential for bandwidth-intensive applications. Supporting auto-negotiation, these ports can detect the capabilities of connected devices and configure themselves accordingly, ensuring optimal performance without manual intervention. With four additional shared Gigabit SFP (Small Form-factor Pluggable) ports, this switch provides flexibility in network design and enhances scalability.

The SLM224G4S supports VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network) capabilities, which can segment network traffic to improve security and performance. This is particularly useful in environments where different departments or teams require distinct network segments for operational efficiency. By implementing VLANs, organizations can enhance their network management while isolating sensitive information from potential threats.

Quality of Service (QoS) is another critical technology integrated into the SLM224G4S. It prioritizes network traffic, ensuring that critical applications receive the bandwidth they need for optimal performance. This is particularly important for VoIP and video conferencing applications, where latency and jitter can significantly impact user experience.

The switch also features advanced Layer 2 management functionalities, including SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol), allowing IT administrators to monitor network performance and quickly troubleshoot issues. The embedded web-based management interface makes configuration straightforward, enabling quick adjustments to settings without deep networking knowledge.

Security is a paramount consideration in today’s networking landscape. The SLM224G4S provides robust security features, including port security that limits the number of MAC addresses allowed on a port, reducing the risk of unauthorized access. Moreover, it supports802.1X port-based authentication, ensuring that only authenticated devices can connect to the network.

In summary, the Linksys SLM224G4S managed switch boasts features such as 24 Gigabit Ethernet ports, VLAN support, QoS, SNMP management, and advanced security protocols. These characteristics make it an excellent choice for businesses looking to enhance their network's performance, safety, and reliability, paving the way for seamless connectivity in today’s digital age.