Description

This article is from the Ethernet FAQ, by James Messer James@NetworkUptime.com with numerous contributions by others.

2.1] What is Ethernet?

Ethernet is the IEEE 802.3 series standard, based on the
CSMA/CD access method that provides two or more stations to share a
common cabling system. This access method, Carrier Sense Multiple
Access with Collision Detection, is the basis for Ethernet systems
which range from speeds of 1 Mb/s through 1000 Mb/s.

The design goals for Ethernet were to create a simply defined
topology that made efficient use of shared resources, was easy to
reconfigure and maintain, provided compatibility across many
manufacturers and systems, while keeping the cost low.

Continue to:

• prev: 1.4] Who provides information to the FAQ? (comp.dcom.lans.ethernet)
• Index
• next: 2.2] What is the history of Ethernet?