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Glossary 31
encryption The process of encoding data to prevent unauthorized access,
especially during transmission. Microsoft wireless hardware relies
upon encryption to ensure that data transmissions cannot be
accessed by users outside the network. Also see WEP.
Ethernet A networking standard that uses cables to provide network access.
Ethernet cable A type of cable that facilitates network communications.
firewall A security system that protects a network from external threats,
such as hacker attacks, originating outside the network. A
hardware firewall is a connection routing device with specific data-
checking settings, that protects all of the devices connected to it.
The Microsoft Broadband Networking Base Station includes a
hardware firewall. A software firewall resides on a single computer,
protecting that computer from external threats. See Microsoft
Windows
®
XP Help for more information about the Internet
Connection software firewall.
firmware Software information stored in non-volatile memory on a device.
gateway See base station.
gateway address The IP address used when making a connection outside your
immediate network.
host name The DNS name of a device on a network, used to simplify the
process of locating computers on a network.
hub A device with multiple ports that serves as a central connection
point for communication lines from all devices on a network. When
data arrives at one port, it is copied to the other ports.
ICS Acronym for “Internet Connection Sharing.” A software feature in
Microsoft Windows that allows computers on a network to access
online services through a single Internet connection. Microsoft
Broadband Networking hardware replaces software ICS.
infrastructure network A network configuration in which wireless devices connect to an
existing network.
Internet domain See domain.
IP address Acronym for “Internet Protocol” address. IP is the protocol within
TCP/IP that is used to send data between computers over the
Internet. An IP address is an assigned number used to identify a
computer that is connected to a network through TCP/IP. An IP
address consists of four numbers (each of which can be no greater
than 255) separated by periods, such as 192.168.1.1.
ISP Acronym for “Internet Service Provider.” A company that provides
individuals or companies access to the Internet.