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Networking Fundamentals · Foundational

Ethernet

The dominant wired LAN technology, standardized as IEEE 802.3, defining framing, MAC addressing and physical media from 10 Mbps to 800 Gbps.

Definition

Ethernet originated at Xerox PARC in the 1970s and now runs over twisted-pair copper, twinax and fiber in nearly every LAN and data center. Modern switched Ethernet operates in full duplex without collisions. Speeds are named using the IEEE convention of rate, signaling and medium, such as 1000BASE-T.

Example

A desktop connected to a wall jack with a Cat 6 patch cable uses Gigabit Ethernet.

Exam tip

Ethernet is Layer 1 and 2; IP rides on top of it.

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