what is the function of Network adapter?

[Sowmya]

Hi,

I am pretty much confused between NIC and Network adapter. Where can I find the exact explanation for the two? Is NIC same as Ethernet Card?
I want to know the architecture of Ethernet Card

Thanks,
Sowmya

[Bikerepairmann]

NIC stands for Network Interface Card, which is the same as Network Adapter. Ethernet Card is a type of NIC

I want to know the architecture of Ethernet Card

explain a little more please. Hardware or Software?

[Sowmya]

Hi

Thanks. I would like to know the architecture of Ethernet Card from both the perspectives. My project revolves around understanding the concept of packet capture mechanism in Linux.

[Bikerepairmann]

How much hardware knowledge do you have?
(understanding of the system busses and pheripheral chips?

I can help you on the hardware side, butIt would take too long to explain it here, for there is no short description to explain.
If you leave your e-mail adress with me, I'll send you a longer answer

The best way to begin is to google on the topics.
- ethereal, pcap for software side
- hardware/chip manufacturers for the hardware side

[GoldenEye]

I can recommend you to read cisco systems CCNA for start.

You can never want to know to ride a bike before you know how to walk.

[Sowmya]

Thanks.

I kinda know about buses etc...but not to a great extent. My project revolves around the concept of packet capture mechanism in linux. Dont know if I need to dig deep down into the hardware aspects of Ethernet Card. My email id is sowmyamb@gmail.com.

[Bikerepairmann]

about capturing of packets, read this about pcap and this about ethereal for the software side of it all. with a little deduction and reading the source you can find out enough to do your job.

I don't think you need to know much about the hardware side, unless you only need to adress a single type of card which is 'not standard'. and even then knowing how to adress the registers of the NIC should be enough.