Glossary page M - R

A network connecting computers over a large geographical area,
such as a city or school district.

A device that allows multiple logical signals to be transmitted simultaneously across a
single physical channel.

A modem connected to a Local Area Network (LAN) that is accessible from any
workstation on the network.

A board that provides network communication capabilities to and from
a computer.

Operating system designed to pass information and communicate between more than one computer. Examples include AppleShare, Novell NetWare, and Windows NT
Server.

End point of a network connection. Nodes include any device attached to a network such as file
servers, printers, or workstations.

Any computer or peripheral that is connected to the network.

An expansion slot found in
many laptop computers.

A network in which resources and files are shared without a centralized
management source.

The physical layout of the network; how the cables are arranged; and how the
computers are connected.

A direct link between two objects in a network.

A direct link between two objects in a network.

A connection point for a cable

A formal description of a set of rules and conventions that govern how devices on a network
exchange information.

A configuration of multiple disks designed to preserve
data after a disk casualty.

The working memory of a computer where data and programs are temporarily stored. RAM only holds information when the computer is on.

A device used in a network to strengthen a signal as it is passed along the network cable.

Standard connectors used for unshielded twisted-pair cable.

A device that routes information between interconnected networks. It can select the best path to
route a message, as well as translate information from one network to another. It is similar to a
superintelligent bridge.