A Network Interface Card (NIC) is a device that allows computers to be joined together in a network, typically a Local Area Network (LAN). Networked computers communicate with each other using a particular protocol or agreed-upon language for transmitting data packets between the different machines or "nodes." The network interface card acts as an interpreter, allowing the machine to both send and receive data on a LAN. Information Technology (IT) specialists often use these cards to setup wired or wireless networks.
Function and Purpose of an NIC
One of the most common languages or protocols used with a LAN is Ethernet. There are also other, lesser-used protocols such as Token Ring. When building a LAN, a network interface card is installed in each computer on the network and each one must use the same architecture. For example, all the cards must be Ethernet cards, Token Ring cards, or an alternate technology.
An Ethernet network interface card is installed in an available slot inside the computer, typically on the motherboard. The NIC assigns a unique Media Access Control (MAC) address to the machine, which is used to direct traffic between the computers on a network. Network cards also change data from a parallel format, used by computers, to a serial format necessary in data transfers; and then back again for received information.
Function and Purpose of an NIC
One of the most common languages or protocols used with a LAN is Ethernet. There are also other, lesser-used protocols such as Token Ring. When building a LAN, a network interface card is installed in each computer on the network and each one must use the same architecture. For example, all the cards must be Ethernet cards, Token Ring cards, or an alternate technology.
An Ethernet network interface card is installed in an available slot inside the computer, typically on the motherboard. The NIC assigns a unique Media Access Control (MAC) address to the machine, which is used to direct traffic between the computers on a network. Network cards also change data from a parallel format, used by computers, to a serial format necessary in data transfers; and then back again for received information.
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