Advantages and Disadvantages of Ethernet


When you see in your organization, there are many computers connected to share data and information, this whole technology is used to connect them in networks such as cables, computers, wires, protocols, and chips, all compose this Ethernet.

As it is explained in very simple language to give this a proper definition, Ethernet is a technology used to connect wired computers in a network which is commonly used in Local Area Networks (LAN, MAN, and WAN). Some applications of Ethernet are educational Institutions such as schools, Private learning institutions, Universities, Company offices, Hospitals, etc.

Types of Ethernet Cables

There are 3 types cabled commonly used

  • Coaxial Cable − It is a type of electrical cable consisting of copper wire and a shield with metal to block signal interference. Commonly used in TV cable satellites to connect their antenna.

  • Twisted Pair Cable − When copper wires, two pairs of single circuits are twisted together. The purpose of their twisting is to reduce noise or crosstalk. They are cost-effective and easy to install.

  • Fiber Optic Cable − Fiber optic cables are also cables but instead of electrical signals, they carry light which increases the high speed of light. You can imagine how faster the data will transfer than the other two cables. It is really expensive and requires proper installation and management.

Components of Ethernet Connection

Ethernet has the following components involved −

  • Ethernet Protocol − It defines the sets of rules that tell how the data is sent

  • Ethernet Port − Jacks or opening present in the computer where we may plug in the cables such as RJ 45 connectors.

  • Ethernet Network Adaptor − It is a chip that fits into the motherboard that allows computers to connect to LAN (Local Area Network).

  • Ethernet cable − This is a type of cable that connects our computer to a router, switch or modem, etc.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Ethernet

Let’s now see and find out what are Advantages and Disadvantages of Ethernet −

Advantages of Ethernet

  • Faster Speed − The fastest speed provided by Ethernet is 1Gbps. This speed ranges according to the cables used.

  • Cost-effective − It is relatively expensive and the total cost is also less and its maintenance is also easy as compared to wireless network connection which may include satellite.

  • Better transmission − It provides resistance to noise or crosstalk as the cables are twisted and shielded to protect the better transmission.

  • Reliability − High-speed availability and reliability are much more as compared to the wireless connection.

  • Better Security − Data security and protection as Firewall is used and there are zero interruptions from the radio frequencies.

Disadvantages of Ethernet

  • Undetermined service − It is not a good option for real-time applications because it has constraints to have a determined service.

  • Poor Detection − It is hard to race where the problem has occurred or which part caused the problem

  • Less effective in large traffic − It is also not useful for traffic-intensive applications. Because there is more traffic there will be less efficiency.

  • Connection close − The receiver is not able to send any package after it receives the packets.

  • Mobility issue − It also has less mobility which means it is ideal where the device needs to be placed at a particular place where a wireless connection can win over this point.

  • Guidance for installation − Although, it is inexpensive it is harder to install without proper assistance and guidance from a professional.

Let’s now summarize these in a tabular form for a simple understanding −

Advantages of Ethernet

Disadvantages of Ethernet

Faster speed and accuracy of transfer of data

It covers only the shortest distance area network

It is relatively inexpensive and the total cost is also less.

It has limited mobility and is not compatible with real-time applications

It has high-speed availability and reliability.

It doesn’t work properly in real-time.

It also ensures Backward compatibility.

If longer cables are used that can increase crosstalk.

Easy installation and maintenance in Ethernet.

Tracing the root cause of the problem is hard to spot.

So, keeping certain factors in mind, we conclude that Ethernet connection is important in certain areas such as schools and institutions where installation can be done once and provide security to the data. It is an important technology in networking.

Conclusion

Here in this article, we learn what Ethernet is, its components, features, and advantages and disadvantages including Ethernet Vs Wi-Fi. It has advantages such as high speed and reliability but certain cons are also there such as limited data transmission for longer distances. It is an important technology that provides more security which is a priority for organizations and government offices.

Updated on: 05-May-2023

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