Module 6: Ethernet Fundamentals

Overview of Module 6 Ethernet Fundamentals
Ethernet is now the dominant LAN technology in the world. Ethernet is a family of LAN technologies that may be best understood with the OSI reference model. All LANs must deal with the basic issue of how individual stations, or nodes, are named. Ethernet specifications support different media, bandwidths, and other Layer 1 and 2 variations. However, the basic frame format and address scheme is the same for all varieties of Ethernet.


Various MAC strategies have been invented to allow multiple stations to access physical media and network devices. It is important to understand how network devices gain access to the network media before students can comprehend and troubleshoot the entire network.

This module covers some of the objectives for the CCNA 640-801, INTRO 640-821, and ICND 640-811 exams.

Students who complete this module should be able to perform the following tasks:

• Describe the basics of Ethernet technology
• Explain naming rules of Ethernet technology
• Explain how Ethernet relates to the OSI model
• Describe the Ethernet framing process and frame structure
• List Ethernet frame field names and purposes
• Identify the characteristics of CSMA/CD
• Describe Ethernet timing, interframe spacing, and backoff time after a collision
• Define Ethernet errors and collisions
• Explain the concept of auto-negotiation in relation to speed and duplex