Nätverksinterfaces

Nätverksinterfaces, often referred to as network interface controllers (NICs) or network cards, are hardware components that enable a computer or other device to connect to a network. They act as the physical gateway through which data is transmitted and received. Every network interface has a unique media access control (MAC) address, a globally unique identifier burned into the hardware by the manufacturer. This MAC address is used at the data link layer of the network model for local network communication.

Network interfaces can be integrated directly onto a motherboard or exist as separate expansion cards. They come in various forms, supporting different network technologies such as Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and Fiber Channel. Ethernet interfaces are the most common for wired local area networks (LANs), utilizing Ethernet cables for connectivity. Wireless interfaces, like Wi-Fi adapters, allow devices to connect to networks wirelessly using radio waves. The speed and capability of a network interface are determined by its specifications, such as the data transfer rate it supports (e.g., 100 Mbps, 1 Gbps, 10 Gbps). Proper configuration of network interface settings, including IP addresses and subnet masks, is essential for successful network communication.