D-Link DES-1526 manual Fast Ethernet Technology, Introduction

INTRODUCTION

This chapter describes the features of the DES-1526 and some background information about Fast Ethernet, Gigabit Ethernet, Switching, VLAN, and Power over Ethernet technologies.

Fast Ethernet Technology

The growing importance of LANs and the increasing complexity of desktop comp uting applications are fueling the need for high performance networks. A number of high-speed LAN technologies have been proposed to provide greater bandwidth and improve client/server response times. Among them, 100BASE-T (Fast Ethernet) provides a non-disruptive, smooth evolution from the current 10BASE-T technology. The non- disruptive and smooth evolution nature, and the dominating potential market base, virtually guarantees cost-effective and high performance Fast Ethernet solutions.

100Mbps Fast Ethernet is a standard specified by the IEEE 802.3 LAN committee. It is an extension of the 10Mbps Ethernet standard with the ability to transmit and receive data at 100Mbps, while maintaining the CSMA/CD Ethernet protocol. Since 100Mbps Fast Ethernet is compatible with all other 10Mbps Ethernet environments, it provides a straightforward upgrade and takes advantage of the existing investment in hardware, software, and personnel training.

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