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Glossary 33
PPPoE Acronym for “Point-to-Point Protocol over Ethernet.” A specification
for connecting users on an Ethernet network to the Internet by
using a broadband connection (typically through a DSL modem).
Microsoft Broadband Networking hardware supports PPPoE for
connections that require it.
protocol A set of rules that computers use to communicate with each other
over a network.
RJ-11 connector An attachment used to join a telephone line to a device such as a
modem.
RJ-45 connector An attachment found on the ends of all Ethernet cables.
router See base station.
server A computer that provides shared resources, such as storage space
or processing power, to network users.
shared folder A folder on a computer that has been made available for other
people to use on a network.
shared printer A printer connected to a computer that has been made available
for other people to use on a network.
sharing To make the resources associated with one computer available to
users of other computers on a network.
SSID Acronym for “Service Set Identifier,” also known as a “wireless
network name.” An SSID value uniquely identifies your network and
is case sensitive.
static IP address A permanent Internet address of a computer (assigned by an ISP).
straight-through cable See Ethernet cable.
subnet A distinct network that forms part of a larger computer network.
Subnets are connected through routers and can use a shared
network address to connect to the Internet.
subnet mask Determines whether two computers on a network can
communicate with each other directly. Similar in form to an IP
address and typically provided by an ISP. An example of a subnet
mask value is 255.255.0.0.
switch A central device that functions similarly to a hub, forwarding
packets to specific ports rather than broadcasting every packet to
every port. A switch is more efficient when used within a high
volume network.
TCP/IP Acronym for “Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol.” A
networking protocol that allows computers to communicate across
interconnected networks and the Internet. Every computer on the
Internet communicates using TCP/IP.