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Questions and Answers
What is Ethernet?
What is Ethernet?
Ethernet is the traditional technology for connecting devices in a wired local area network (LAN) or wide area network (WAN).
Why is Ethernet used?
Why is Ethernet used?
Ethernet is used due to its inexpensive price and its ability to evolve and deliver higher levels of performance.
Which of the following are advantages of Ethernet? (Select all that apply)
Which of the following are advantages of Ethernet? (Select all that apply)
Which of the following are disadvantages of Ethernet? (Select all that apply)
Which of the following are disadvantages of Ethernet? (Select all that apply)
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What does a network interface card (NIC) do?
What does a network interface card (NIC) do?
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What are the two types of NIC cards?
What are the two types of NIC cards?
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What is a local area network (LAN)?
What is a local area network (LAN)?
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What is a wide area network (WAN)?
What is a wide area network (WAN)?
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Study Notes
What Is Ethernet?
- Ethernet is a network technology that connects devices in a LAN or WAN
- It enables communication through a set of rules or common network language called a protocol.
- Ethernet defines how network devices format and transmit data so other devices on the network can recognize, receive and process the information.
- It is typically less vulnerable to disruptions than WLAN and offers more network security and control.
Why is Ethernet Used?
- Ethernet gained popularity due to its lower cost compared to competing technologies like IBM's Token Ring.
- As network technology advanced, Ethernet's ability to evolve and deliver higher performance levels made it a superior choice.
- Ethernet initially operated over coaxial cables and connected devices through hubs using daisy chain or star topology.
- Modern Ethernet LANs usually use twisted-pair cables or fiber optic cabling.
Advantages & Disadvantages of Ethernet
Advantages
- Relatively low cost
- Backward compatibility
- Resistance to noise
- Good data transfer quality
- Speed
- Reliability
- Data security through common firewalls
Disadvantages
- Intended for smaller, shorter distance networks
- Limited mobility
- Longer cables can create crosstalk
- Not ideal for real-time or interactive applications
- Troubleshooting is difficult when tracing specific cables or nodes causing issues
How Ethernet Works
- The Ethernet protocol is defined in a family of standards called IEEE 802.3.
- It covers both physical connectivity and data transmission.
- Ethernet uses two units of transmission: packets and frames.
- Frames contain the data payload and MAC addresses of both sender and receiver.
- Computers require a NIC to connect to the Ethernet network.
What Is a NIC?
- A NIC (Network Interface Card) is essential for connecting a computer to a network.
- It is a circuit board installed in a computer that provides a dedicated network connection.
- Other terms for NIC include network interface controller, network adapter, or LAN adapter.
Purpose of a NIC
- Enables wired communications.
- Allows communication between computers on a LAN and over larger networks through IP (Internet Protocol).
Types of NIC Cards
-
Internal Network Cards:
- Installed in a motherboard slot.
- Require network cables for access.
- Use PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect) or ISA (Industry Standard Architecture) connections.
-
External Network Cards:
- Used in desktops and laptops without internal NICs.
Local Area Network (LAN)
- A LAN connects devices in a limited area like a house or office building.
- LANs offer high data transfer rates (up to 10 Gbps) at low cost.
- Examples include small office networks inside a building or home networks.
- Ethernet is a popular technology for LANs.
- LANs commonly use Ethernet and wireless networks (WLANs).
What is a WAN?
- A WAN (Wide Area Network) is a large network that spans geographically diverse locations.
- WANs facilitate communication and information sharing between devices across the world.
- WAN providers, such as internet service providers, establish these networks and lease them to businesses, schools, etc.
- The internet is considered the largest WAN in the world.
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Description
Explore the fundamentals of Ethernet, a pivotal technology for connecting devices in local and wide area networks. Understand its operational protocols, advantages, and why it has outperformed other networking technologies over the years. This quiz covers cost-effectiveness, security, and the evolution of Ethernet cabling.
