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Fast Ethernet is a low-cost solution for computer networking at 100 Mbps, using twisted pair copper or fiber optic cables. It was introduced in 1995 to solve the 10 Mbps speed limitation of existing Ethernet networks. Many devices support both speeds, and there are four additional standards in the IEEE 100BASE family for 100 Mbps connections based on optical fiber. However, Ethernet speeds have dramatically increased since the late 1990s, with 1 Gbps, 10 Gbps, 40 Gbps, and 100 Gbps Ethernet introduced in the 2000s.
Fast Ethernet is a set of Ethernet standards for computer networking at 100 Megabits per second (Mbps). Using Fast Ethernet, data can be transmitted over twisted pair copper or fiber optic cables over long distances. Its low cost and relatively high speed often make it a good choice for everyday network connectivity. It is often used by desktop and laptop computers to communicate with network hubs, routers and switches.
In the early 1990s, the 10 Mbps speed limitation of existing Ethernet networks created frequent bottlenecks. High-speed optical technologies such as Fiber Distributed Data Interface (FDDI) were often too expensive to implement. The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) introduced Fast Ethernet as a low-cost solution in 1995. Proponents initially claimed that this 100 Mbps technology could be used without replacing existing network cables. In reality, many installations have had to be rewired with a newer cable standard to fully support the higher device bandwidths.
American National Standards Institute (ANSI) category (CAT) 3 cabling was used extensively in 10 Mbps Ethernet networks. The IEEE 100BASE-T2 and 100BASE-T4 standards introduced Fast Ethernet over twisted pair cabling. These standards used the same CAT 3 cabling as the older 10 Mbps networks. IEEE 100BASE-TX became the most popular standard, using CAT 5 or better copper cabling. Like CAT 3, CAT 5 cables are limited to a maximum length of 328 feet (100 meters) and use the same type of connector.
Four additional standards in the IEEE 100BASE family define 100 Mbps connections based on optical fiber. These have maximum cable lengths from 1,310 feet (400 meters) to over 24 miles (40 kilometers). The type of optics and fibers used determine the allowable cable length and design.
To ease the transition from 10 Mbps to Fast Ethernet, many devices have been sold that support both speeds. So-called “10/100” network interface cards, laptop interfaces, and hubs can automatically negotiate the maximum supported line speed. Routers, switches, and other networking equipment can also include this capability, as well as configuring the boot speed.
The term Fast Ethernet refers to the networking technology available at the time. In 1995, regular Ethernet ran at just 10Mbps, and Fast Ethernet was 10x faster. Since the late 1990s, however, Ethernet speeds have dramatically increased. 1 Gigabit per second (Gbps) Ethernet, also known as Gigabit Ethernet, was introduced in 1999. This was soon followed by 10, 40 and 100 Gigabit Ethernet in the 2000s.
