USER GUIDE

Glossary

DSL

An acronym for digital subscriber line, DSL is a high-speed connection that uses the same wires as your regular phone. But even though it uses the same connection as your phone, DSL service does not tie up your phone line.

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________

DSL Filter

A small device that separates analog phone signals from DSL signals. Also referred to as DSL blockers, microfilters, or DSL phone line filters. Telephones, fax machines, or any equipment — with the exception of the DSL router — connected to the DSL phone line should be plugged into the black (phone) port of the DSL filter.

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Ethernet

A technology used to connect computers and other devices to a network. Ethernet networks transmit information at very high speeds, ranging from 10 million bits per second on a standard network to 10 billion bits per second on a 10-Gigabit Ethernet.

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________

IP Address or Internet Protocol Address

An address that pinpoints the location of your computer on the Internet (example: 192.168.1.1). Without an IP address, your computer cannot communicate on the Internet.

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________

NIC or Network Interface Card

A small piece of hardware — also referred to as an Ethernet card — that acts as an interface between your computer, the local area network your computer is hooked up to, and the Internet.

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Operating System

Often referred to as OS, your operating system is a program that manages all the other programs or applications on your com- puter. Windows XP and Mac OS X are examples of operating systems.

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________

PPPoE or Point-to-Point Protocol over Ethernet

The method your computer uses to automatically learn network settings from a remote server. We use PPPoE to provide IP address information to your router.

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Router

A specialized device that connects two networks. Routers are similar to modems but have decision-making capabilities,

including filtering requests and forwarding them to the right destination.

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________

SSID

The Service Set Identifier uniquely identifies your wireless network. Your computer must know the SSID in order to connect to a wireless network.

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________

WEP Key

The Wired Equivalent Privacy key encrypts your data while it is being transmitted wirelessly.

17

www.covad.net/onlinesupport

Page 17
Image 17
Netopia Network Adapte manual Glossary

Network Adapte specifications

Netopia Network Adapters are significant components in the realm of telecommunications and data communications, primarily designed for enabling connectivity in diverse networking environments. These devices serve as vital intermediaries, turning various forms of signals into intelligible data streams capable of being processed by computers and other digital devices. The Netopia Network Adapter has garnered attention for its reliability, versatility, and innovative features.

One of the main features of the Netopia Network Adapter is its support for multiple networking standards. This versatility allows the adapter to coexist with various protocols and network types, including Ethernet, DSL, and fiber-optic connections. This multi-protocol approach ensures that businesses can seamlessly transition between different networking technologies without needing extensive infrastructure overhauls.

Another key characteristic of the Netopia Network Adapter is its robust security features. With built-in encryption and advanced security protocols, the device helps protect sensitive data during transmission. This is particularly important in environments where data integrity and confidentiality are paramount, such as in financial services or healthcare industries.

Additional characteristics include high throughput and low latency rates, which contribute to efficient data communications. The adapter is designed to handle large volumes of data traffic, making it ideal for environments with heavy internet use, such as offices or schools. Its intelligent bandwidth management capabilities also ensure that users experience minimal interruptions, maintaining access to applications even during peak usage times.

The technology behind Netopia Network Adapters incorporates advanced firmware that facilitates easy updates and optimizations. This continuous improvement model helps the device adapt to evolving networking standards and threats, ensuring long-term functionality. Moreover, many models come equipped with user-friendly interfaces that allow for straightforward installation and configuration, making them accessible even for users with minimal technical expertise.

In summary, the Netopia Network Adapter is a vital networking tool characterized by its versatility, security features, high performance, and user-friendly design. Its ability to accommodate various protocols and its resilience in high-demand settings make it an option worth considering for organizations looking to enhance their network infrastructure. Whether for residential use or enterprise-level applications, Netopia Network Adapters stand out for their robust performance and reliable connectivity.