Ethernetkaart

Ethernetkaart, also known as a network interface card (NIC) or network adapter, is a piece of computer hardware that allows a computer to connect to a network. It serves as the interface between the computer and the network medium, such as an Ethernet cable. The Ethernetkaart translates data from the computer's internal format into a format that can be transmitted over the network, and vice versa.

These cards come in various forms. The most common are integrated directly onto the motherboard of most modern computers, eliminating the need for a separate expansion card. However, for older systems or specialized applications, standalone Ethernetkaart can be installed in expansion slots like PCI or PCIe. They also exist as external devices that connect via USB, offering a convenient solution for laptops or devices without internal expansion capabilities.

Functionally, an Ethernetkaart has a unique MAC address (Media Access Control address) burned into its firmware. This address acts as a physical identifier for the device on the network. When data is sent across the network, it is addressed to a specific MAC address, ensuring it reaches the intended recipient. The Ethernetkaart handles the transmission and reception of data packets according to the Ethernet protocol standards, enabling communication between devices on a local area network (LAN) and beyond.