10/100 Fast Ethernet Switch User’s Guide
Introduction
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NTRODUCTION
This section describes the features of the TE100-S44/ TE100-S88,
as well as giving some background information about Ethernet/
Fast Ethernet switching technology.
Fast Ethernet Technology
The rapid growth of LANs and desktop computing applications are
fueling the need for high performance networks. A number of
high-speed LAN technologies have been proposed to provide
greater bandwidth and improve client/server response times.
Among them, Fast Ethernet, or 100Base-T, provides a non-
disruptive, smooth evolution from the current 10Base-T
technology. This non-disruptive and smooth evolution virtually
guarantee cost effective and high performance Fast Ethernet
solutions in the years to come.
100Mbps Fast Ethernet is a new standard specified by the IEEE
802.3 LAN committee. It is an extension of the 10Mbps Ethernet
standard with the ability to transmit and receive data at 100Mbps,
while maintaining the CSMA/CD Ethernet protocol. Since the
100Mbps Fast Ethernet is compatible with all other 10Mbps
Ethernet environments. It provides a straightforward upgrade and