Introduction:

Ethernet is a family of wired computer networking technologies commonly used in local area networks (LAN), metropolitan area networks (MAN) and wide area networks (WAN). It was commercially introduced in 1980 and first standardized in 1983 as IEEE 802.3. Ethernet has since been refined to support higher bit rates, a greater number of nodes, and longer link distances, but retains much backward compatibility. Over time, Ethernet has largely replaced competing wired LAN technologies such as Token Ring, FDDI and ARCNET.

Why Ethernet is Used?

Ethernet is used to connect devices in a network and is still a popular form of network connection. For local networks used by specific organizations -- such as company offices, school campuses and hospitals -- Ethernet is used for its high speed, security and reliability. Ethernet initially grew popular due to its inexpensive price tag when compared to the competing technology of the time, such as IBM's token ring. As network technology advanced, Ethernet ability to evolve and deliver higher levels of performance, ensured its sustained popularity. Throughout its evolution, Ethernet also maintained backward compatibility. Ethernet's original 10 megabits per second throughput increased tenfold to 100 Mbps in the mid-1990s. The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) continues to deliver increased performance with successive updates. Current versions of Ethernet can support operations up to 400 gigabits per second (Gbps).

Advantages:

• relatively low cost;
• backward compatibility;
• generally resistant to noise;
• good data transfer quality;
• speed;
• reliability; and
• data security, as common firewalls can be used.

Disadvantages:

• intended for smaller, shorter distance networks;
• limited mobility;
• use of longer cables can create crosstalk;
• doesn't work well with real-time or interactive applications;
• speeds decrease with increased traffic;
• receivers don't acknowledge the reception of data packets; and
• troubleshooting is hard when trying to trace which specific cable or node is causing the issue.

Ethernet vs. Wi-Fi:

Wi-Fi is the most popular type of network connection. Unlike wired connection types, such as Ethernet, it does not require a physical cable to be connected. Instead, data is transmitted through wireless signals.

Ethernet Connection:

• transmits data over a cable;
• limited mobility, as a physical cable is required;
• more speed, reliability and security than Wi-Fi;
• consistent speed;
• data encryption is not required;
• lower latency; and
• more complex installation process.

Wi-Fi Connection:

• transmits data through wireless signals rather than over a cable;
• better mobility, as no cables are required;
• not as fast, reliable or secure as Ethernet;
• more convenient -- users can connect to the internet from anywhere;
• inconsistent speed -- Wi-Fi is prone to signal interference;
• requires data encryption;
• higher latency than Ethernet; and
• simpler installation process.

Types of Internet Cables:

The IEEE 802.3 working group approved the first Ethernet standard in 1983. Since then, the technology has continued to evolve and embrace new media, higher transmission speeds and changes in frame content.

Below are some of the changes: