Glossary

Virtual Local Area Network – logical separation of network traffic on a switch, independent of physical cabling.

Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol – automatically assigns IP address, gateway and DNS to clients.

Domain Name System – translates domain names into IP addresses.

Portion of an IP network defined by address space and subnet mask.

Network node that forwards traffic to other networks – usually the router IP.

Microsoft directory service for users, computers, group policies and central management.

Group Policy Object – policy for central configuration of Windows clients and servers.

Redundant Array of Independent Disks – combines multiple disks for fault tolerance or performance.

Copy of data or systems for recovery after failure or error.

Security system that filters and blocks network traffic by rules.

Multi-factor authentication – login with multiple proofs (e.g. password + app code).

Access Control List – list of permissions defining who may access resources.

Documented service request in helpdesk with status, priority and processing history.

Service Level Agreement – agreed response and resolution times for IT services.

Step-by-step guide for recurring operational or emergency tasks.

Supervision of systems and services through metrics, logs and alerts.