Ethernet is a standard communication protocol embedded in software and hardware devices to build a local area network (LAN). It was designed by Bob Metcalfe in 1973, and through the efforts of Digital, INTEL, and X Erox (for whom Metcalfe worked), “DIX” Ethernet has become the standard model for LANs around the world.
Ethernet cables connected to an internet switch.
A basic wired LAN consists of the following components:
four ethernet connectors on the back of a router.
Two or more computers to be connected to each other or in a network. A network interface card (NIC) in each computer. Ethernet cable to connect to each computer. A network switch or hub to direct network traffic. network software.
An Ethernet cable.
A NIC is installed in each computer and assigned a unique address. An Ethernet cable runs from each NIC to the central switch or hub. The switch or hub will act as a relay (although they will have significant differences in how they handle network traffic), receiving and directing data packets across the LAN. Therefore, this type of network creates a communication system that allows sharing of data and resources, including printers, fax machines, and scanners.
A network hub with an Ethernet cable.
These networks can also be wireless. Instead of using a cable to connect computers, wireless NICs use radio waves to communicate two-way with a wireless switch or hub. Instead of Ethernet ports, wireless NICs, switches, and hubs have a small antenna. Wireless networks can be more flexible to use, but they also require special care when configuring security.
Alternative technologies include the IBM-designed “Token Ring” passing protocol and the much newer Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM) technology. ATM allows devices to connect over great distances to create WANs (Wide Area Networks) that behave like LANs. However, for an inexpensive network located in a single building, Ethernet is a well-established standard with a solid track record, spanning more than three decades of providing reliable networking environments.
The formal designation for standardizing the Ethernet protocol is sometimes called IEEE 802.3. The IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) proposed a task force in February 1980, responsible for designating [19] 80 2 [nd mês] – standardize network protocols. The third subcommittee worked on a type essentially identical to Ethernet, albeit with minor variations. Consequently, the generic use of the term may refer to IEEE 802.3 or DIX.
Many computers are equipped with Ethernet ports.
