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Appendix A: Glossary
ADSL
Asymmetric digital subscriber line (ADSL) is a new modem technology that converts
existing twisted-pair telephone lines into access paths for high-speed communications of
various sorts.
Auto-MDI/MDIX
On a network hub or switch, an auto-MDI/MDIX port automatically senses if it needs to act
as a MDI or MDIX port. The auto-MDI/MDIX capability eliminates the need for crossover
cables.
Auto-negotiate
To automatically determine the correct settings. The term is often used with
communications and networking.
DHCP
The Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) is an Internet protocol for automating the
configuration of computers that use TCP/IP. DHCP can be used to automatically assign IP
addresses, to deliver TCP/IP stack configuration parameters such as the subnet mask and
default router, and to provide other configuration information such as the addresses for
printer, time and news servers.
DMZ
In computer networks, a DMZ (demilitarized zone) is a computer host or small network
inserted as a "neutral zone" between a company's private network and the outside public
network. It prevents outside users from getting direct access to a server that has company
data. Typically, the DMZ contains devices accessible to Internet traffic, such as Web (HTTP )
servers, FTP servers, SMTP (e-mail) servers and DNS servers.
DNS
The Domain Name System (DNS) is a distributed Internet directory service. DNS is used
mostly to translate between domain names and IP addresses, and to control Internet email
delivery. Most Internet services rely on DNS to work, and if DNS fails, web sites cannot be
located and email delivery stalls.
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