Dell PowerConnect 2848 User's Guide - Page 178

Load Balancing Enables the even distribution of data and/or processing packets across available network resources. For example, load balancing may distribute the incoming packets evenly to all servers, or redirect the packets to the next available server. M MAC Address Media Access Control Address. The MAC Address is a hardware specific address that identifies each network node. MAC Address Learning MAC Address Learning characterizes a learning bridge, in which the packet's source MAC address is recorded. Packets destined for that address are forwarded only to the bridge interface on which that address is located. Packets addressed to unknown addresses are forwarded to every bridge interface. MAC Address Learning minimizes traffic on the attached LANs. MAC Layer A sub-layer of the Data Link Control (DTL) layer. Mask A filter that includes or excludes certain values, for example parts of an IP address. For example, Unit 2 is inserted in the first minute of a ten-minute cycle, and Unit 1 is inserted in fifth minute of the same cycle, the units are considered the same age. MD5 Message Digest 5. An algorithm that produces a 128-bit hash. MD5 is a variation of MD4, and increases MD4 security. MD5 verifies the integrity of the communication, authenticates the origin of the communication. MDI Media Dependent Interface. A cable used for end stations. MDIX Media Dependent Interface with Crossover (MDIX). A cable used for hubs and switches. MIB Management Information Base. MIBs contain information describing specific aspects of network components. Multicast Transmits copies of a single packet to multiple ports. N NMS Network Management System. An interface that provides a method of managing a system. Node A network connection endpoint or a common junction for multiple network lines. Nodes include: • Processors • Controllers • Workstations 178 Glossary