Commonly used type of computer network technology for LAN‘s in homes and offices. Ethernet uses standards and a protocol to directly connect computers. It can be used independently of the internet, while Ethernet convienently runs over IP.
They are many kinds of Ethernet connections. All require a suitable Network Card or built in motherboard functionality. The most common Ethernet technologies has a limited range (about 200 yards).
History
The name “ether” comes from a different plane that scientists originally theorized light went to in order to explain its speed. Because light was later found to have a determinable speed, this theory was, of course, abandoned. But “ether-net” was used to explain that the speed of the network using ethernet was “fast as light.”
Related Links
- Ethernet (IEEE 802.3) Web Site by Charles Spurgeon
- Ethernet Network FAQ
- The Educational User’s Guide to Ethernet
Related Topics:
TakeDown.NET -> “Ethernet”