Glossary
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address resolution
The process used for resolving differences between
computer addressing schemes. Address resolution typically defines a method
for tracing network layer (layer-3) addresses to Data Link layer (layer-2)
addresses.
See also: address mapping.
adjacency
The relationship made between defined neighboring routers
and end nodes, using a common media segment, to exchange routing
information.
administrative distance
A number between 0 and 255 that expresses the
value of trustworthiness of a routing information source. The lower the
number, the higher the integrity rating.
administrative weight
A value designated by a network administrator to
rate the preference given to a network link. It is one of four link metrics
exchanged by PTSPs to test ATM network resource availability.
ADSU
ATM Data Service Unit: The terminal adapter used to connect to an
ATM network through an HSSI-compatible mechanism.
See also: DSU.
advertising
The process whereby routing or service updates are trans-
mitted at given intervals, allowing other routers on the network to maintain
a record of viable routes.
AEP
AppleTalk Echo Protocol: A test for connectivity between two Apple-
Talk nodes where one node sends a packet to another and receives an echo,
or copy, in response.
AFI
Authority and Format Identifier: The part of an NSAP ATM address
that delineates the type and format of the IDI section of an ATM address.
AFP
AppleTalk Filing Protocol: A presentation-layer protocol, supporting
AppleShare and Mac OS File Sharing, that permits users to share files and
applications on a server.
AIP
ATM Interface Processor: Supporting AAL3/4 and AAL5, this inter-
face for Cisco 7000 series routers minimizes performance bottlenecks at the
UNI.
See also: AAL3/4
and
AAL5.
algorithm
A set of rules or processes used to solve a problem. In net-
working, algorithms are typically used for finding the best route for traffic
from a source to its destination.
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