Term | Definition |
tower server | A stand-alone server that has its own complete workstation setup, including a monitor, a mouse, a keyboard, and network adapters. |
rack-mounted server | The traditional type of server used in business. A rack-mounted server is more or less a fully functioning computer, although it lacks a keyboard, mouse, or monitor. It is typically mounted in a rack unit with other servers. |
blade-mounted server | A server unit that functions within a blade enclosure, which is a rack that provides components that multiple servers share, including power supply, cooling fans, and networking components. |
switch | A hardware device that physically connects computers within a LAN at a central gathering point in a physical star topology. |
hub | An earlier version of a switch that was unable to forward packets to specific ports. |
wiring closet | A closet designed to store networking equipment (such as switches). |
router | An enhanced type of switch that directs network traffic, like a switch does, but is able to do so on a larger scale, sending data out to other networks. |
repeater | A device that receives signals along a network path, increases the strength of the signals, and then rebroadcasts the amplified signals. Also called amplifier. |
gateway | A connecting device that enables communication between dissimilar networks. |
bridge | A connecting device that enables communication between similar networks. |
network adapter | A device in an individual computer or other device, such as a printer, that enables the computer to connect to a network. |
network interface card (NIC) | A network adapter that is a circuit board installed in the computer. The term is sometimes used generically to refer to any network adapter. |
media access control (MAC) address | A unique hardware identifier that each network adapter has. Sometimes called physical address. |