Ethernet Definition

Ethernet is a network standard for data transmission using either coaxial or twisted pair cable. In the LAN (local area network) world, Ethernet is the most widely used standard. Until recently, Ethernet ran at 10 megabits per second, but it is just as common now for Ethernet-based systems to run at 100 megabits per second. Still newer systems have been developed to transfer data at 1000 megabits per second (equivalent to a gigabit).

While Ethernet isn't going away any time soon, the last few feet between users and the network is rapidly being serviced by wireless technologies. Wireless offers greater flexibility to the user, but is much slower than Ethernet.

Related Terms:

• Token Ring
• WiFi