Ethernet is the backbone of modern networking, and in this episode we unpack the fundamentals that every Network+ candidate must know. We’ll explore how Ethernet evolved, what makes it the most widely used networking technology, and how its standards shape speed and reliability.

You’ll learn about MAC addresses and their role in uniquely identifying devices, the Ethernet frame structure, and how collision management works through CSMA/CD. We’ll also touch on coaxial, twisted pair, and fiber implementations, giving you both the historical context and the modern applications you need to understand.

By the end of this episode, you’ll have a strong grasp of Ethernet’s essential rules, components, and protocols—knowledge that will help you both on the exam and in real-world troubleshooting.