Ethernet History
Einführung
Ethernet is a widely used networking technology that enables the connection of devices in a local area network (LAN). This article provides a comprehensive overview of the history of Ethernet, tracing its origins and the key developments that have shaped its evolution over the years.
1. Invention of Ethernet
1.1 The Birth of Ethernet
In 1973, Robert Metcalfe, a pioneering computer scientist, invented Ethernet while working at Xerox PARC (Palo Alto Research Center). He developed a local area network protocol that utilized coaxial cable to transmit data between computers. This became the foundation of Ethernet as we know it today.
2. Early Implementations
2.1 Ethernet Version 1
In 1976, Metcalfe and his team published the original Ethernet specification, known as Ethernet Version 1. It supported data transfer rates of 2.94 Mbps and was initially deployed in Xerox’s own offices.
2.2 Ethernet Version 2
In 1982, Digital Equipment Corporation (DEC), Intel, and Xerox jointly released Ethernet Version 2, which became the industry standard. It improved the data transfer rate to 10 Mbps and introduced the familiar 48-bit MAC address format.
3. Standardization and Adoption
3.1 Ethernet IEEE 802.3
To facilitate interoperability and further development, the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) established the Ethernet standard IEEE 802.3 in 1985. This standardization paved the way for the widespread adoption of Ethernet in various industries.
4. Evolution of Speed and Media
4.1 Fast Ethernet (100 Mbps)
In 1995, the IEEE 802.3u standard introduced Fast Ethernet, which increased the data transfer rate to 100 Mbps. This improvement allowed for faster and more efficient communication within LANs.
4.2 Gigabit Ethernet (1 Gbit/s)
The demand for higher bandwidth led to the development of Gigabit Ethernet in 1999. This technology allowed for data transfer rates of up to 1 Gbit/s, enabling faster network performance and supporting bandwidth-intensive applications.
4.3 10 Gigabit Ethernet (10 Gbit/s)
As network demands continued to grow, the IEEE 802.3ae standard introduced 10 Gigabit Ethernet in 2002. It provided even higher data transfer rates, making it suitable for high-speed backbone networks and data centers.
5. Advancements in Ethernet
5.1 Power over Ethernet (PoE)
Power over Ethernet (PoE) was introduced in 2003, enabling devices to receive power through Ethernet cables. This innovation simplified the deployment of network devices, such as IP phones and wireless access points, as they no longer required separate power sources.
5.2 Ethernet over Fiber
To meet the increasing need for longer-distance and faster connections, Ethernet over Fiber was developed. It utilizes fiber-optic cables to transmit Ethernet signals, offering higher bandwidth and longer transmission distances compared to traditional copper-based Ethernet.
Abschluss
Ethernet has come a long way since its inception in the 1970s. Starting as an experimental protocol, it has evolved into a widely adopted technology that forms the backbone of modern networking systems. With advancements in speed, media, and capabilities, Ethernet continues to adapt and meet the ever-increasing demands of today’s interconnected world.
