User Manual

Wireless LAN PCI Adapter
19
LAN - A local area network (LAN) is a group of computers and associated devices that
share a common communications line and typically share the resources of a single
processor or server within a small geographic area (for example, within an office building).
M
MAC Address - 12-digit hexadecimal number that identifies a networking product on the
network.
Mbps (Megabits per second) - One million bits per second; unit of measurement for data
transmission.
N
Network - A system that transmits any combination of voice, video and/or data between
users.
Node - A network junction or connection point, typically a computer or work station.
O
Open System - Is when the sender and the recipient do not share a secret key. Each party
generates its own key-pair and asks the receiver to accept the (usually randomly) generated
key. Once accepted, this key is used for a short time only; then a new key is generated and
agreed upon.
P
Packet - A unit of data routed between an origin and a destination in a network.
PCMCIA - Personal Computer Memory Card International Association
Plug and Play - The ability of a computer system to configure expansion boards and other
devices automatically without requiring the user to turn off the system during installation.
R
Roaming - The ability to use a wireless device and be able to move from one access point's
range to another without losing the connection.
RTS/CTS Threshold Value - Should remain at its default setting of 2,347. A preamble is a
signal used to synchronize the transmission timing between two or more systems. A series
of transmission pulses is sent before the data to indicate that “someone is about transmit
data.” This ensures that systems receiving the information correctly when the data
transmission starts.
S
Shared Key - Is when both the sender and recipient share a secret key. Both units use this
key for an extended length of time, sometimes indefinitely. Any eavesdropper that discovers
the key may decipher all packets until the key is changed.