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Citrix Netscaler VPX terminology

Citrix Netscaler VPX terminology

The Citrix Netscaler VPX platform uses both product-specific terminology and basic load balancer terminology and concepts, many of which are defined here.

NetScaler IP (NSIP)

The IP of the load balancer is designated for management purposes.

SubNet IP (SNIP)

A SNIP is the source IP address of a packet that is used by the NetScaler every time it wants to communicate with a server (or object). Servers also use the SubNet IP to respond to the NetScaler.

Virtual IP (VIP)

A VIP is an IP address to which a client sends requests. The NetScaler terminates the client connection at the VIP and then initiates a connection with a server that is configured in the load balancing service. This can be either a public IP address for public (internet) traffic, or a private IP address for private (intranet) traffic.

Virtual server

A virtual server refers to the combination of the IP address, port, and protocol to which an IP client connects. It also refers to where traffic requests are sent for a particular application that is being load-balanced by the NetScaler.

Service

The combination of IP address, port, and protocol that is used to route requests to a specific server. A service, once configured, must later be associated to a virtual server.

Server object

A virtual entity that enables you to assign a significant name to a physical server, rather than using its regular IP address.

Monitor

An element that allows you to track a service, assuring that it is operating correctly. It uses probes and heartbeat signals to monitor the service status.