What Is an Ethernet NIC Card?
All computers which are capable of connecting to a network, including the Internet, through an Ethernet connection have a network interface controller, or NIC. External cards can enable this functionality on computers which don’t have an NIC built in.HistoryThe Ethernet network standard was first developed in the early 1970s. NICs have existed since then to enable Ethernet functionality on computers.PurposeEthernet NIC cards are meant to enable Ethernet functionality on computers which were not build with an Ethernet NIC on the computer’s motherboard.DesignThe design of an Ethernet NIC card can vary substantially among different manufacturers. But all NIC cards contain an NIC chip which enables network functionality as well as Ethernet ports which allow for the connection of Ethernet cords.VariantsAlmost all Ethernet NIC cards are PCI cards which fit into the PCI slot on a computer’s motherboard. Some external NIC cards can connect to a computer by Firewire or USB.PerformanceMost Ether
The Ethernet is a networking standard (known as IEEE 802.3) for Local Area Networks (LAN), which are used for connecting close-proximity devices together for sharing resources (such as in offices, schools, and homes). The Ethernet Network Interface Controller allows computing devices to take advantage of this technology, which has today become the ubiquitous medium for data transmission.
