History of Computers - Ethernet

The Ethernet is a type of computer network. It is the most common form of Local Area Network (LAN).

Overview

The Ethernet was invented in 1973 at Xerox Corporation’s PARC by Bob Metcalfe. Metcalfe came up with this while working on a way to connect the Xerox’s "Alto" computer to a printer. The Ethernet is a local area network, meaning it only connects devices in close proximity (due to the use of cables). The Ethernet connects machines with cables along which the computers transmit data. The devices connected are called stations or nodes. The cables themselves are called mediums. A single shared medium is called segment. The data is transmitted in frames which are small chunks of information. A network interface card is needed for each computer as well as a networking switch or networking hub to direct traffic and networking software.

Significance

The Ethernet was the first commercially successful computer networking method. It is the standard model for LANs today and is the most common form of networking, though wireless networks have become increasingly popular due the lack of need of cables and possibility for long distance connections, one major setback for the Ethernet system due to its use of cables. Initially Ethernet was used for creating LANs (local area networks) in which all the computers on the network are physically located close to one another. Today, thanks to the Gigabit Ethernet standards, Ethernet is viable not only for LANs, but for Metro Area Networks (MANs) and even higher traffic back-haul communications. In this capacity, Ethernet offers an alternative to other high-volume networking technologies such as Synchronous Optical Networking (SONET). .

Links

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ethernet#Ethernet_frames http://docwiki.cisco.com/wiki/Ethernet_Technologies#Ethernet-A_Brief_History