NetTool
Users Manual
C-8
NEXT
Near-end crosstalk; crosstalk between two twisted pairs
measured at the same end of the cable as the disturbing
signal source.
NIC (Network Interface Card)
A network interface card is the adapter card that plugs
into a computer to provide a network connection.
Node Number
Node number identifies the device of interest.
NVP (Nominal Velocity of Propagation)
The speed that a pulse travels along a cable, expressed
as a percentage of the speed of light in a vacuum.
Packet
A group of bits in a defined format, containing a data
message that is sent over a network.
Ping
Packet Internet Groper (ping) is a common method of
accessing devices on a network to see if they are active.
Ping sends a packet from one device, attempts to
“bounce” it off another device, and “listens” for a reply. A
successful ping indicates that the network path to that
device (including the routers in between) are up and
functioning.
Protocol
A “language” that a device uses to communicate on a
network. Examples of protocols are: TCP/IP or
AppleTalk.
Primary Domain Controller
A device that manages the common security policy and
user account databases for a group of NetBIOS servers.
The election protocols are such that the primary domain
controller has a tendency to become the master browser.