Glossary · Networking

Ethernet

Ethernet is the dominant wired networking technology, defining how devices send frames over copper or fiber links in local networks.

Updated October 6, 2026

Ethernet is a family of IEEE 802.3 standards for wired local networks. It defines the cabling, signaling and frame format, using MAC addresses to deliver frames between devices connected through switches.

Why it matters

Ethernet is more stable and predictable than Wi-Fi, with lower latency and no radio interference, so servers, desktops and access points are usually wired. Speeds have grown from 10 Mbps to 100 Gbps and beyond. Common twisted-pair cabling is Cat5e for 1 Gbps and Cat6 or better for 10 Gbps at shorter distances.

Example

StandardSpeedTypical medium
100BASE-TX100 MbpsCat5 copper
1000BASE-T1 GbpsCat5e copper
10GBASE-T10 GbpsCat6a copper

Twisted-pair runs are limited to 100 meters per segment.

Common mistakes

  • Exceeding the 100 meter copper limit without a switch or fiber.
  • Using damaged or poorly terminated cables and chasing phantom packet loss.
  • Expecting gigabit speed through a 100 Mbps port or an old cable.

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