3Com 3824 Implementation Guide - Page 91

91 endstation A computer, printer or server that is connected to a network. Ethernet A LAN specification developed jointly by Xerox, Intel and Digital Equipment Corporation. Ethernet networks use CSMA/CD to transmit packets at a rate of 10 Mbps over a variety of cables. Ethernet address See MAC address. Fast Ethernet An Ethernet system that is designed to operate at 100Mbps. forwarding The process of sending a packet toward its destination using a networking device. Forwarding Database See Switch Database. filtering The process of screening a packet for certain characteristics, such as source address, destination address, or protocol. Filtering is used to determine whether traffic is to be forwarded, and can also prevent unauthorized access to a network or network devices. flow control A mechanism that prevents packet loss during periods of congestion on the network. Packet loss is caused when devices send traffic to an already overloaded port on a Switch. Flow control prevents packet loss by inhibiting devices from generating more traffic until the period of congestion ends. FTP File Transfer Protocol. A protocol based on TCP/IP for reliable file transfer. full duplex A system that allows packets to be transmitted and received at the same time and, in effect, doubles the potential throughput of a link. gateway See router. Gigabit Ethernet IEEE standard 802.3z for 1000 Mbps Ethernet; it is compatible with existing 10/100 Mbps Ethernet standards. half duplex A system that allows packets to transmitted and received, but not at the same time. Contrast with full duplex. hub A device that regenerates LAN traffic so that the transmission distance of that signal can be extended. Hubs are similar to repeaters, in that they connect LANs of the same type; however they connect more LANs than a repeater and are generally more sophisticated.