The part of a network infrastructure that carries data gathered from smaller lines, like LANs or subnetworks.
Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary
backbone (noun)1.
- spinal column spine
2.
something that resembles a backbone as
a) a chief mountain ridge, range, or system
b) the foundation or most substantial or sturdiest part of something
c) the longest chain of atoms or groups of atoms in a usually long molecule (as a polymer or protein)
d) the primary high-speed hardware and transmission lines of a telecommunications network (as the Internet)
3.
firm and resolute character
4.
- spine
Backbone (Wikipedia)
| Look up backbone in Wiktionary, the free dictionary. |
The backbone is the vertebral column of a vertebrate.