The source host uses Address Resolution Protocol (ARP) to determine the destination MAC address. Although the destination MAC address can be a unicast, broadcast, or multicast, the source MAC address must always be unicast. Every device with an IP address on a network also has an Ethernet MAC address. When a device sends an Ethernet… Read more
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In Ethernet, Multicast, and Broadcast Addresses always describe a group of recipients. However, the unicast explains communication where data is sent from one point to another. Unicast Address A unicast address means a packet has been sent from a single source to a specific destination. All Ethernet and IP networks support unicast transmission. A unicast
Mastering Unicast, Multicast, and Broadcast Addresses in 2025 Read More »
A media access control address, or a device’s MAC address, is a worldwide unique identifier assigned to a network interface controller. It is also known as “hardware address” or “physical address” and is very important for communication within network segments. Most IEEE 802 network technologies, including Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth, use a Media Access Control address for within-network
Understanding MAC Addresses: Structure, Importance, and How to Find Them in 2025 Read More »
In 2025, the Ethernet frame structure, defined by IEEE 802.3, is the backbone of wired and wireless networking, enabling reliable data transfer in everything from smart homes to data centers. This guide explores the components of an Ethernet frame, their roles, and their relevance in modern networks like 400GbE and IoT. Overview of Ethernet Frame
Ethernet Frame Structure: A Guide to IEEE 802.3 in 2025 Read More »
In 2025, the Data Link Layer is critical for reliable network communication, enabling devices to transfer data efficiently across wired and wireless networks. Its two sublayers—Logical Link Control (LLC) and Media Access Control (MAC)—play distinct roles in framing, addressing, and error control. This guide explores their functions, differences, and relevance in modern networking, from Ethernet
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In 2025, Ethernet standards remain the cornerstone of reliable, high-speed networking for homes, businesses, and data centers. From streaming 8K videos to powering smart cities, Ethernet’s balance of speed, affordability, and scalability makes it the go-to technology for wired networks. This guide explores Ethernet’s evolution, key standards, and how to choose the right one for
Ethernet Standards: The Backbone of Modern Networking in 2025 Read More »
A Network Interface Card (NIC), also known as an Ethernet card, is a hardware component that enables a computer to connect to a network, such as a home network or the Internet, using an Ethernet cable with an RJ-45 connector or wireless technologies. Network Interface Cards provide a dedicated, full-time connection to a network, and
Network Interface Card (NIC) and Ethernet: Essential for Modern Networking (2025) Read More »
Data-link layer framing is a critical process in networking, enabling reliable data transmission across diverse media. The data-link layer takes packets from the Network Layer and encapsulates them into frames, the fundamental data units for network communication. If the frame size becomes too large, the packet may be divided into smaller frames to ensure efficient
Framing in Data Link Layer – Exclusive Explanation (Updated 2025) Read More »
Carrier Sense Multiple Access (CSMA) is a network protocol that listens for a carrier signal before transmitting data, reducing collisions on shared transmission media like Ethernet and Wi-Fi networks. By checking the state of the medium before sending, CSMA ensures efficient data transmission in networks with multiple devices. As part of the Media Access Control
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Network topology defines the schematic arrangement of devices, nodes, and connections within a computer network. It determines how data flows between devices, impacting performance, scalability, and reliability. Broadly categorized into physical network topology (the tangible layout of cables and devices) and logical network topology (the virtual path of data flow), understanding these structures is crucial
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