User Manual

Glossary
This glossary defines terms that apply to wireless and networking technology.
802.1x
Standard for port-based authentication in LANs. Identifies each user and allows
connectivity based on policies in a centrally managed server.
802.11
Refers to the set of WLAN standards developed by IEEE. The three commonly in use
today are 802.11a, 802.11b, and 802.11g, sometimes referred to collectively as Dot11.
access control list (ACL)
A list of services used for security of programs and operating systems. Lists users and
groups together with the access awarded for each.
access point (AP)
An inter-networking device that connects wired and wireless networks together. Also, an
802.11x capable device that may support one or more 802.11 network interfaces in it and
coordinates client stations to establish an Extended Service Set 802.11 network
Advanced Encryption Standard (AES)
An encryption algorithm developed for use by U.S. government agencies; now
incorporated into encryption standards for commercial transactions.
ad-hoc network
A group of nodes or systems communicating with each other without an intervening
access point. Many wireless network cards support ad-hoc networking modes.
authentication server
A central resource that verifies the identity of prospective network users and grants
access based on pre-defined policies.
authentication zone
A administrative grouping of resources for user authentication.
backhaul
The process of getting data from a source and sending it for distribution over the main
backbone network. Wireless backhaul refers to the process of delivering data from a node
on the wireless network back to the wired network. Also referred to as WDS.
Basic Service Set (BSS)
The set of all wireless client stations controlled by a single access point.
bridge
A connection between two (or more) LANs using the same protocol. Virtual bridges are
used as a means of defining layer 2 domains for broadcast messages. Each virtual bridge
uniquely defines a virtual local area network (VLAN).
Class of Service (COS)
A method of specifying and grouping applications into various QoS groups or categories.
client utility
This application executes on a station and provides management and diagnostics
functionality for the 802.11 network interfaces.
Differentiated Services Code Point (DSCP)
A system of assigning Quality of Service "Class of Service" tags.
Installation and User Guide: WFB400 Windows Wireless LAN Client Page 23 of 29