Networking Glossary

Networking Terminology

This glossary serves as your definitive guide to networking terminology, bridging the gap between legacy infrastructure and modern 5G, IoT, and Edge technologies. Whether you are deploying Carrier Ethernet services or securing Critical Network Infrastructure, use this resource to find clear, precise definitions for the industry standards that drive your network.

100G Ethernet – Cloud providers and large enterprises use 100G Ethernet for virtualization, big data, AI, and high-performance computing workloads.

AI-Powered Networking – AI in networking enables autonomous networking, predictive analytics, and real-time optimization, allowing networks to make intelligent decisions without constant human intervention.

Oil and Gas SCADA – In oil and gas applications, SCADA systems integrate sensors, RTUs/PLCs and communication links to manage wells, pipelines, pumps, compressors and tanks over large areas.

PTP Grandmaster Clock – The primary timing source in a Precision Time Protocol (IEEE 1588) network and serves as the “network’s heartbeat”.

SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) – Pulls real-time data from sensors in the field, brings it back through a communications network, and presents it on screens in a control room.

Telco Cloud Infrastructure – Telco cloud virtualizes and containerizes network functions, allowing CSPs to run their operations on software-defined platforms rather than rigid hardware boxes.