6. IEEE 802.3/Ethernet

The Ethernet network is a rare example in computing and telecommunications. It has adapted to and survived all the technical and technological changes of recent years. Historically, this network was designed by Xerox to link its expensive laser printers to its office automation workstations. Early versions (referred to in some documents as "experimental Ethernet") operated at a data rate of 3 Mbit/s. A consortium comprising Digital, Intel and Xerox attempted to have it standardized by IEEE as a standard for local area networks. Unfortunately, the initial protocol could not be used to transport all Level 3 protocols. The 802.3 subcommittee made the necessary modifications to enable it to carry all Level 3 protocols, at the cost of making it incompatible with the consortium's original specifications. The data rate was increased to 10 Mbit/s. In fact, the electrical specifications, cabling...