subject: Ethernet Cable - What Is An Ethernet Cable [print this page] When it comes to computers and technology, specific cords and cables all have distinct purposes and uses. The purpose of the Ethernet cable is to connect a computer to high-speed internet access. The purpose of the Ethernet cord is to connect a cable modem and a computer together so that the computer can connect to the internet. The Ethernet cord is useful both in wireless network setups and wired network setups as well. This cord has matching ends, so it does not matter which end is plugged into the cable modem and which end is plugged into the back of the computer.
One of the primary features of the Ethernet cable is that it is capable of transferring data at rates of 10 mbps, which stands for megabits per second. Fast Ethernet is capable of transferring data at rates of 100 megabits in a second. A third type of Ethernet connection is Gigabit Ethernet, which is capable of transferring data at a rate of 1,000 megabits in a second, or 1 gigabit per second. There are different types of Ethernet cords but the primary difference between them is the length rather than the speed or capabilities.
Commercially available Ethernet cables come in a wide variety of different lengths. You can find commercially available Ethernet cable choices ranging from several inches long to several hundred feet long Ethernet cable. The standard Ethernet cord has a connector end that looks similar to a phone cord, but they are not the same type of cord. You should not confuse the Ethernet cords with phone cords or cable cords, as they are not similar. Cable lines have a completely different type of connector, and the connector on phone cords is smaller than on Ethernet cords. For this purpose, only Ethernet cords can be used to connect computers to the internet using a cable modem.
There are numerous benefits to using an Ethernet cable rather than another type of connection to reach the internet. A wired connection using an Ethernet cord is generally much faster and much more reliable in comparison to a wireless connection. Ethernet cables are capable of preventing data loss because they are capable of handling heavy traffic loads, and so Ethernet internet connections are especially beneficial for corporate networks. There is a tab on the head of the Ethernet cord's connector, which allows the Ethernet cord to lock into place when you plug it into the computer or the cable modem.
