Design considerations for LAN implementations

Abstract

Gigabit Ethernet is the latest in a series of networks based upon the Ethernet technology, simply the most successful Local Area Network (LAN) networking technology in history. Ethernet began as a 3 Mbps network that operated over coaxial cables. It was then standardized by the IEEE in 1982 and operated predominantly at 10 Mbps. Ethernet then evolved to support thin coaxial cable, fiber optic cable and unshielded twisted-pair (UTP). The standardization of Ethernet to operate over ordinary UTP cable has led to the growth in the sale of Ethernet adapters, repeaters and other networking equipment required to link up the Ethernet networks.