Ethernet is the traditional technology, that connects devices in a wired local area network (LAN) or wide area network (WAN). Moreover, it allows devices to communicate via a protocol, a set of rules. However, connected devices use cables to access a geographically localized network, instead of a wireless connection. Data travels over an Ethernet cable, the physically encased wiring. Also, from businesses to gamers, end users rely on the benefits of Ethernet connectivity, which include reliability and security.

Ethernet describes how network devices format and transmit data, so other devices on the same LAN or network can recognize, receive and process the information. 

Compared to wireless LAN technology, it is typically less vulnerable to disruptions. Moreover, it can also offer a greater degree of network security and control compared to wireless technology because devices must connect using physical cabling. So, outsiders face difficulties accessing network data or hijacking bandwidth for unsanctioned devices.

Why is Ethernet used?

Devices are connected to a network by Ethernet. In local networks, such as company offices, school campuses, and hospitals, for high speed, security, and reliability, Ethernet is used.

However, Ethernet initially grew popular due to its inexpensive price tag, when it is compared to the competing technology of the time, such as IBM’s token ring. Moreover, it has the ability to evolve and deliver higher levels of performance, ensuring its sustained popularity. 

How does it work?

Ethernet protocol touches both the physical layer and data link layer on the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model. Two units of transmission are defined by Ethernet: packet and frame. 

The frame has the payload of data being transmitted as well as the following:

• the physical MAC addresses of the sender and receiver
• VLAN tagging information
• quality of service (QoS) information
• the error correction information to detect transmission problems

Moreover, each frame is wrapped in a packet, which contains several bytes of information to establish the connection and mark where the frame starts.

Ethernet was first developed in the 1970s by engineers at Xerox. However, it initially ran over coaxial cables. Initially, it connected multiple devices into network segments through hubs. Layer 1 devices are responsible for transporting network data. Currently, Ethernet LAN uses special grades of twisted-pair cables or fiber optic cabling.

However, if two devices that share a hub, transmit data at the same time, the packets can collide and create connectivity problems. To avoid these digital traffic jams, IEEE developed the Carrier Sense Multiple Access with Collision Detection (CSMA/CD) protocol. This protocol allows devices to check whether a given line is in use or not before initiating new transmissions.

Later, Ethernet hubs gave way to network switches. Because a hub cannot discriminate between points on a network segment, it can’t send data directly to different points. Instead, whenever a network device sends a transmission through an input port, the hub copies the data and distributes it, to all available output ports.

In contrast, a switch sends any given port only the traffic intended for its devices rather than copies of any and all the transmissions on the network segment, thus improving security and efficiency.

Advantages and disadvantages:

Ethernet has many benefits and a few disadvantages as well for users mentioned below.

Advantages of Ethernet

• relatively low cost
• backward compatibility
• generally resistant to noise
• good data transfer quality
• reliability

Disadvantages of Ethernet

• intended for smaller, shorter-distance networks
• limited mobility
• crosstalk can be created by use of longer cables
• speeds decrease with increased traffic
• sometimes it is hard to troubleshoot when trying to trace which specific cable or node is causing the issue.

Moreover, data has always been there in your devices or we can also say that it has always lived in your devices. By considering the above facts, we can say that the world running over Ethernet will not be wrong. The user segment is widely spread, they know the benefits they can get with Ethernet.