1. ATM
Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM) is a technology designed for the high-speed transfer of voice,
video, and data through public and private networks using cell relay technology.
2. NNI
Network-Network Interface.
Sometimes called Network-Node Interface.A UNI link connects an ATM end-system
(the user side) with an ATM switch(the network side). An NNI link connects two ATM switches;
in this case, both sides are network.
3. UNI
User-Network Interface.A UNI link connects an ATM end-system (the user side) with an ATM
switch (the network side).
4. PVC
Permanent virtual connection (PVC) service—connection between points is direct and permanent.
In this way, a PVC is similar to a leased line.
5. SVC
Switched virtual connection (SVC) service—connection is created and released dynamically.
Because the connection stays up only as long as it is in use (data is being transferred),
an SVC is similar to a telephone call.
6. VPC,VPI
Virtual path connections (VPCs), identified by a VPI.
7. VCC,VCI
Virtual channel connections (VCCs), identified by the combination of a VPI and a VCI.
8. ILMI
Integrated Local Management Interface.The UNI specifications include physical layer,
ILMI, and traffic management, in addition to signaling. ATM addresses are needed for purposes
of signaling when setting up switched connections. ATMaddresses are also used by the
Integrated Local Management Protocol (ILMI, formerly Interim LocalManagement Protocol) to
learn the addresses of neighboring switches.
9. AAL5
ATM adaptation layer 5 (AAL5) for terminating interworking PVCs
AAL5, the most common ATM Adaptation Layer (AAL) used to transmit data
across ATM networks.
10. BICI
A third type of interface, the Broadband Inter-Carrier Interface (BICI) connects two public
switches from different public networks.