The portion of a network that is reachable by a network broadcast, which is a request for an address resolution or an announcement of availability ("what is the address of that node?," "I am here," etc.). Unlike a collision domain, which concentrates at layer 2 (data link layer) and is typically within a LAN segment, a broadcast can be initiated at various protocol layers, thus the domain can be within a LAN segment or routed across LAN segments. See broadcast, broadcast traffic and collision domain.

Download Computer Desktop Encyclopedia to your PC, iPhone or Android.

THIS DEFINITION IS FOR PERSONAL USE ONLY.
All other reproduction is strictly prohibited without permission from the publisher.
© 1981-2012 The Computer Language Company Inc.  All rights reserved.