What is Ethernet?

[handan2002]

Hi everyone!

I have no idea about networking so this may sound dumb but i'm asking anyway.

What exactly is ethernet?

Is it just a name for a group of computers linked on LAN?

Also, (this is hardware really, but anyway) is an ethernet controller basically the networking card or is it something totally different?

Thanks!

 

[GavinO]

Ethernet is the method of networking that is pretty much the current standard. Any home networking equipment that you buy will be ethernet equipment. Ethernet controller refers to the specific circuitry, either on the network card or embedded in the chipset, that handles networking tasks. There are other components on the network card dealing with actually interfacing with the cable, but you can pretty much think of the network controller as the bit that lets you connect to the network. Typically drivers for a particular controller are fairly compatible with an assortment of cards based on the same controller (useful under Linux, where your particular manufacturer may not supply Linux drivers)

 

[handan2002]

oh, I get it now. I can now go abouts at least attempting to fix my problem. If theres no luck, i'll post that problem later .

Thanks!

 

[handan2002]

Well, as it turns out the problem's too big for my boots so I've posted it under "General Hardware".

Please help if you can Thank You!