ethernet A very popular LAN architecture, using the CSMA/CD network-access method.
token ring A LAN architecture featuring a ring topology and a token-passing network access method.
Data Link layer The second layer of the OSI model.
Media Access Control sublayer A sublayer of OSI's Data Link layer that is responsible for the interface with the network adapter.
Logical Link Control sublayer A sublayer of OSI's Data Link layer that is responsible for error checking and managing links between devices on the subnet.
Physical layer The first OSI layer, responsible for translating the data frame into a bitstream suitable for the transmission medium.
network architecture A complete specification for a physical network, including specifications for access method, data frame, and network cabling.
access method A procedure for regulating access to the transmission medium.
data frame A package of data transmitted over an ethernet network.
physical address A permanent network address, burned into the adapter card by the manufacturer, that is used to deliver data across the physical network.
preamble A series of bits marking the beginning of a data frame transmission.
CRC (Cyclical Redundancy Check) A checksum calculation used to verify the contents of a data frame.
CSMA/CD The network access method used by ethernet.
token passing The network access method used by token ring.
FDDI A token passing network architecture using fiber-optic cable.
