Gigabit Ethernet Primer

Definition: Gigabit Ethernet supports a maximum data rate of 1000 Mbps. At one time, it was believed that these speeds required fiber optic or copper cabling, but Gigabit Ethernet has now successfully been implemented on CAT5 cable.

The migration from 100 Mbps Fast Ethernet to Gigabit will likely not be as smooth or rapid as was the migration from traditional Ethernet to Fast. Much more legacy Ethernet technology (both 10 and 100 Mbps varieties) exists now than it did even five years ago. Today, Gigabit can only be found mainly in research institutions. A decrease in cost, increase in demand, and improvements in other aspects of LAN technology will be required to drive the adoption of Gigabit Ethernet.

Also Known As: 1000 Mbps Ethernet