Ethernet has been synonymous with high-speed internet access via a wired connection to a router. The Ethernet cable comes in handy for networking-related purposes for your home and workplace alike.
The main objective of Ethernet working is to allow devices, such as laptops, tablets, desktops, etc., to share all types of files with each other as well as with the Internet provider. Ethernet and the internet will function similarly in providing a link to the internet, but they will employ distinct technologies. For example, the internet is a WAN or Wide Access Network, but Ethernet is a LAN, or Local Area Network.
Ethernet cables are a sort of network cable. These cables are created to function with the Ethernet ports. You will find these "ports" on televisions, routers, computers, etc.
How Exactly Does the Ethernet Work?
Now, let’s understand ‘how ethernet works’. All devices within an Ethernet network come with an "Ethernet card." This card is also known as Network Interface Controller or NIC. These devices are referred to as nodes, and they communicate with each other through protocols. Devices used for wireless Ethernet cable connection also have the Ethernet card in them.
In the area of networking, protocols are viewed as a language of interaction between linked devices. The nodes interact through the frames, and the information sent by these nodes is called "short messages." The "frames" are known as the "sentences" and are said to transport information that one node is sending to the other node.
Ethernet protocol specifies all the rules when it comes to constructing the frames. Every frame has a source address and destination. They play their part to detect the receiver and send a particular frame.
But it is interesting to remember that every node does not carry the same address. All devices are linked to each other through fiber optic Ethernet cable, which is called the medium.
All the signals attenuate because they travel through the cable. The majority of the signals can also get lost, especially when the cable for internet services is pretty long. To maintain the quality, it's important to amplify the signal. These "amplifiers" are called "Repeaters."
Ethernet Cables: How Do They Look?
After knowing all this, you might still wonder, ‘what is ethernet cable?’ The Ethernet cables are pretty similar to the phone ones. The Ethernet cables have a lot more wires when compared to the phone cables. On the other hand, the connector of these cables is a bit bigger than the ones of the phone cables. The Ethernet cable has a modular plug known as RJ45 or Registered Jack connector.
Experts say that the Ethernet cables can differ greatly when it comes to length. They are normally available at 0.3 meters, but you will also find over 30 meters long cables. It's also possible to cut the cables according to the length you need.
These cables are also available in numerous colors, and there is no difference between the shades of all the cables. Some of the computer network administrators color coordinate the cables. Doing so helps them to maintain and manage the networks easily and effectively.
Types of Ethernet Cables Available
Several kinds of Ethernet cables are currently available on the market and the uses of ethernet cables are really helpful. Some of the popular ones are:
- Patch Up or Straight through Cables: The use of these cables is essentially to connect various kinds of devices, such as routers or computers.Cross over Cables: The crossover cables are used for linking two same devices, for instance, connecting two laptops or computers.
- Solid Cables: These types of cables are normally used by business networks and providers of great service. They have a single run of wire and are much cheaper when it comes to producing them. Due to such reasons, they are available at a reasonable price.
These types of Ethernet cable connection enable blazing fast internet access to your home and workplace.