Ethernet

Overview Ethernet is the predominant LAN (Local Area Network) technology for home and business networks. Originally developed by Xerox in the early 1970s, Ethernet is specified in the IEEE 802.3 standard and is commonly used for many of today’s networking needs. Fast data transfer rates (currently, up to 10 GBps), network expandability, and simple, inexpensive installation, are just a few reasons Ethernet is such a popular choice for LANs. Many Ethernet resources are available online including FAQs, tutorials, training, troubleshooting guides, and links to hardware vendors.

General Information The ”Ether” part of Ethernet denotes that networks are not meant to be restricted for use on only one connection type, meaning that Ethernet can be used on many different systems and function the same way on all. Copper cables, fiber optic cables, and even wireless technologies can be used. This flexibility, combined with simple expandability, makes Ethernet an attractive networking solution. Visit SearchNetworking.com to read their definition of Ethernet. This site also provides links to sites with additional Ethernet information. Ethernet history, terminology, hardware, standards, and alternatives, are just some of the topics covered at www.howstuffworks.com/ethernet.htm. Discussions about other networking technologies can also be found on this Web site. For detailed information about Ethernet standards, Collision Sense Multiple Access with Collision Detection (CSMA/CD), hardware, and software, visit the site www.ethermanage.com/ethernet/ethernet.html. Technical diagrams, hardware lists, and protocol information can also be found here.

Ethernet Resources Because of Ethernet’s popularity as an LAN technology, there are many online resources available to the public. These sources range from networking companies, to non-profit groups. Tutorials are the predominant type of Ethernet resource found on the Internet. In the following list, you’ll find resources ranging in subject from hardware lists, to complete Ethernet overviews and downloadable training guides.

• www.iol.unh.edu/training/ethernet.html
• www.techtutorials.info/ethgener.html
• www.uni-trier.de/infos/ether/ethernet-home.html

Are you having trouble with your Ethernet LAN? Visit the “Interactive Ethernet Network Troubleshooting” page by Daniel J. Nassar and Timothy Haight. From this Web page, you can also link to the “Interactive Buyer’s Guide”. This guide will help you to purchase equipment for your own Ethernet LAN.

Additional Links The main topic of the site www.freesoft.org/CIE/Topics/59.htm is Ethernet cables. This site also offers keen insight into the Ethernet hardware and software that’s required for a functioning LAN. For information on other network standards, connect to www.webopedia.com and look up Token Ring, ARCnet, ATM, and FDDI.