Chapter 8
Ethernet, Ethernet, and More Ethernet
In this chapter, we focus our attention on Ethernet networks. In previous chapters, we
informally examined aspects of Ethernet technology to illustrate various network con-
cepts. For example, in our discussion of the data link layer in Chapters 5 and 6, Ethernet
was used as an example to demonstrate frame formats, MAC hardware addresses, and net-
work switches. In this chapter the subject of Ethernet is presented in a more formal and
comprehensive manner. An outline of the topics and concepts we discuss follows:
• History of Ethernet (Questions 1–3)
• Ethernet vs. IEEE 802.3 (Questions 4–13)
• The Initial IEEE 802.3 Protocol: 10 Mbps Ethernet (Questions 14–17)
• 10 Mbps Ethernet Performance Issues: ...