Deeper explanation to Ethernet and how does it work
1. The Core Concept: A Standardized Protocol
Ethernet isn't a single cable or device; it's a standardized protocol (specified in the IEEE 802.3 standard). This means it defines a common set of rules for how data is formatted, transmitted, and received over a network. This standardization is why an Ethernet cable from any manufacturer will work with any computer, router, or switch.
2. How It Works: The Basics
Physical Cables: The most common type is a twisted-pair cable (like Cat5e, Cat6, Cat7). These cables have 8 wires twisted into 4 pairs, which helps cancel out electromagnetic interference.
Frames: Data is broken down into small, manageable blocks called frames. Each frame contains:
- The destination and source addresses (the MAC addresses of the devices).
- The actual data payload being sent.
- Error-checking information to ensure the data arrived correctly.
MAC Addresses: Every Ethernet-capable device has a unique, hardcoded identifier called a Media Access Control (MAC) address. This is like a physical home address for your device on the local network, used to make sure frames get to the right place.
Switches: Modern Ethernet networks use switches. A switch is an intelligent device that receives frames and only forwards them to the specific device they're intended for. This is much more efficient than the old method (hubs) which broadcast data to every device.
