EthernetLAN

EthernetLAN is a term used to describe a local area network that uses Ethernet technology to connect computers, printers, servers, and other devices within a limited area such as a building or campus. It relies on Ethernet standards, primarily the IEEE 802.3 family, to frame data and manage access to the shared medium. Modern EthernetLANs support speeds ranging from 10 Mbps to 10 Gbps and use both copper and fiber media.

Most EthernetLANs use a star topology built with network switches. Each device connects to a switch port, and switches are interconnected to form the network. This design minimizes collisions and enables full-duplex communication. Logical separation and access control are provided by VLANs (IEEE 802.1Q) and, in secured deployments, by authentication and policy controls (IEEE 802.1X) and QoS features (IEEE 802.1p). Power over Ethernet (PoE) can supply devices such as IP phones and wireless access points.

Cabling and media include copper twisted-pair cables such as Cat5e, Cat6, or Cat6a, and fiber optic links. Copper runs are typically limited to about 100 meters per segment, while fiber supports much longer distances. Ethernet LANs adopt modular and scalable designs with managed switches and, increasingly, 10 Gigabit or higher links to servers and uplinks.

EthernetLAN traces its origins to early Ethernet work in the 1970s and 1980s, with IEEE 802.3 standardization. It remains the dominant technology for local networking due to its simplicity, interoperability, and broad ecosystem. Variants and extensions continue to expand its performance, reliability, and feature set in enterprise and residential environments.