Summary
The Ethernet Basics module is designed for
- Beginners interested in learning about networking technology, - IT professionals seeking to strengthen their foundational networking knowledge, and
- Students pursuing a career in information technology or computer science. Throughout this module, students will develop
- Understand the history and evolution of Ethernet technology, - Identify various Ethernet standards and their applications, and
- Comprehend cable types and network topologies utilized in Ethernet.
Recommended prior knowledge:
- Basic understanding of computer operations
Introduction
Some of the key areas covered in the CompTIA Network+ certification include:
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Cable Types and Connectors: Identify cable types and connectors and determine which would be the best solution for a particular scenario. -
Network Devices: Explain how different network devices vary, their characteristics, and where on the network they should be installed. -
Ethernet Switching Features: Configure and implement common Ethernet switching features baked on a specific scenario. -
Cable Troubleshooting: Describe the basic process of troubleshooting cable connectivity and introduce the tools commonly used for these tasks.
To meet these requirements, you will need to:
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Define Ethernet technology, and describe it.
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Describe early implementations of Ethernet.
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Learn how to extend and enhance Ethernet networks.
In the early days of computing, there were no networks. Computers operated in isolation, and the only way to transfer files was by physically carrying a disk from one machine to another—a method humorously called Sneakernet. While it may have provided some exercise, it was far from efficient.
Instead of relying on foot traffic, the technology community sought faster and better ways to connect computers and share information. This brings us to the focus of this module: Ethernet, the groundbreaking technology that revolutionized networking. We’ll start with the basics, examine two early implementations of Ethernet, and conclude with methods for extending and expanding Ethernet-based networks.
This section introduced the topic. The next section of the module will cover Frames of Ethernet.