Gigabit Ethernet describes technology for transmitting Ethernet frames at a rate of one gigabit per second. This speed helps Ethernet wired local networks perform much faster than previous technology.
Gigabit Ethernet
Ethernet is the most widely-used local area network technology; an Ethernet local area network commonly uses coaxial cable or twisted pair cables. An Ethernet switch is an intelligent device that can read data packets and connect network segments; Ethernet switches are modern and fast. Other common devices and equipment that are associated with Ethernet networks include routers, cables, firewalls, and Ethernet splitters. An Ethernet splitter allows more than one computer to be connected to the same network port.
Gigabit Ethernet provides the following benefits compared to Standard Ethernet:
. Increased performance and bandwidth
. Full-duplex capacity that allows data to be transmitted and received at the same time
. Elimination of distorted audio and video through Quality of Service features
. Low cost of ownership
. Reducing and removing traffic bottlenecks
A 100 megabit network can be upgraded by upgrading equipment such as switches and network interface cards. Most modern computers come with a GB network interface card. If your company or home computers have some computers that are not capable of connecting at Gigabit speed, the network interface cards can be upgraded easily and inexpensively.
Many organizations are moving to Gigabit networks because of high-performance computer desktops and laptops, along with more powerful server processors. Today’s servers are built to process larger files and data faster than ever before. The growth of the Internet and applications that use a lot of bandwidth are other factors that have influenced the movement to Gigabit networks.