The Ethernet and WiFi Protocols

Question 1

What is Ethernet?

Answer 1

A standardised family of protocols
Related protocols describing how devices on the same network segment first format data and then transmit it
What we’ve called data packets are called frames when talking at the link layer
Mostly “twisted pair” cables, made of 4 pairs of copper cables twisted together (to cancel out electromagnetic interference)

Question 2

What is Wi-Fi?

Answer 2

A standardised family of protocols
Wireless transmission = radio waves through the air
EM waves are categorised based on their frequency
A channel represents a small frequency range and is designated by a number
Data is encrypted using the WPA and later WPA2 (Wi-Fi Protected Access) security protocols

Question 3

Wi-Fi Pros and Cons

Answer 3

Pros:
- Devices can connect remotely (and so move freely) –> versatility
- Cheap to set up, with less disruption (no wires running through building)
- Easy to expand network (add new devices/ extend range)

Cons:
- Can suffer from interference (less stable/reliable)
- Signal quality degrades fast (less stable/reliable)
- Slower than wired
- More vulnerable to unauthorised accessed (hacking)