scoobyboy

ok bit of a dumb question but is this another word for the usb port that some broadband modems connect to?

(ready to get flamed)

boxst

Hello

I was about to explain, but it's so much better here: http://whatis.techtarget.com/definit...212080,00.html and here http://www.pulsewan.com/data101/ethernet_basics.htm

Steve

scoobyboy

still not totally clear is it only something available on a network?

DJ Dunk

iTrader: (5)

Ethernet refers to a type of network, yes. A common ethernet port would generally be an RJ45 socket on a PC's network card or other device.

So no, its not USB. A broadband router used for cable broadband usually uses an ethernet port, although USB versions are also available. A broadband router is for "cable" broadand and an ADSL router is for "telephone line" broadband.

Boost II

iTrader: (1)

For Ethernet connection you will usually need an ethernet card installed in your pc. The ethernet connectors look like a phone plug at first glance although actually it is a slightly different shape. This is the standard connection for joining your PC to a network of other computers and also some broadband modems use this connection. If you want to connect up something like this but you don't want to install an ether net card, then ethernet-usb adaptors are available so you can plug it in the usb socket.

scoobyboy

is this a better way of joining to the net then i.e faster or is there not much noticeable difference between ethernet and usb

GC8

There isnt a practicle difference because both attachments have a bandwidth greater than the 1mbps/2mbps available over a DSL connection (12mbps for USB 1.1 and commonly between 10mbps and 100mbps for Ethernet).

Simon