Connecting to PCI with Network Cards
Intel is the leading manufacturer of computer and laptop hardware. The brand has devoted much of its existence to developing technology for connecting your computer, all to create a networking interface alongside the use of an adapter for high-speed connectivity and reliable service.
What Are the Different Types of Network Ports?
- PCI. PCI was the first to be able to connect and communicate local peripheral hardware and a computer's central processing system. PCI is the interface for the network adapter cards for both laptops and computers. You could obtain them separately to upgrade the computer's specifications to be able to run at faster and more reliable speeds. People still utilize these cards in computers that don't have an Ethernet port included in its software package.
- PCI-Express. As technology advanced, so did the hardware and PCI-Express quickly surpassed its predecessor. This adapter performs at much higher speeds and supports Wi-Fi connectivity as well as Gigabit Ethernet. These network adapters that offer Gigabit Ethernet have the capability of running at 1 Gigabit which is equal to 1,000 Mbps which is exceptionally faster than the original 10 Mbps with the PCI adapters. PCI-Express is still present in many of the computers available.
- Ethernet. Ethernet cards can function at different speeds depending upon what protocols they support. Originally, these adapters could only support very low Gigabit speeds, however as technology has advanced, the Gigabit Ethernet can now run up to 1 or more Gigabits. A controller helps to regulate the speed at which the connections run.
- Optical LC. These adapters utilize optical fibers for faster connectivity. LC connectors were the upgraded version of the original SC connectors, but these have some beneficial features such as the latch connection and it is smaller in size. You can use these with a wider variety of networks and transceivers.
- DSL/Phone. These network adapters provide a low profile connection to the internet through your digital subscriber line, also known as your phone line. This was another option for computer users to be able to utilize their landline connections for connectivity. One key benefit to this type of adapter is that it can have multiple Ethernet connections.
What Are the Different Types of Network Cards?
- Wired. A wired card means that it has an RJ-45 port that uses twisted or untwisted cables for network connectivity.
- Wireless. A card or network adapter that is wireless connects to a network through a built-in or external antenna. Many current laptops have built-in wireless network adapters as standard hardware.