Start with the fundamentals: a crystal-clear explanation of what Ethernet LANs are and how they work. Review every type of Ethernet: 10 Mbps Ethernet, 100 Mbps Fast Ethernet, 100BASE-FX, and Gigabit Ethernet. Understand every Ethernet media type: coax, thinnet, unshielded twisted-pair, and fiber. Learn about every hardware component in an Ethernet network, from NICs to bridges, routers, and switches. Then, with the help of practical case studies, walk step-by-step through Ethernet design, including estimating network requirements, defining structure, choosing media, and selecting hardware; Ethernet installation, including deciding whether to contract, choosing a contractor, documenting your installation, conduits, firewalls, and testing; and Ethernet maintenance, including preventive and corrective maintenance for cables and equipment; and the basics of network management. Ethernet Tips and Techniques includes EIA/TIA cabling specifications, basic UTP wiring diagrams, a guide to Ethernet acronyms, and much more.