What speed does Ethernet typically operate at?

Ethernet is a widely used networking technology that has evolved significantly since its inception. While several speeds are recognized within Ethernet standards, 10 Mbps is a defining characteristic of early Ethernet, originally specified in the IEEE 802.3 standard. This speed was prevalent during the initial deployment of Ethernet technology and is often used as a foundational reference point in discussions about Ethernet.

The other options denote different generations of Ethernet—such as Fast Ethernet at 100 Mbps and Gigabit Ethernet at 1000 Mbps—which were developed later to accommodate greater data transfer capabilities as network demands evolved. However, 10 Mbps remains a hallmark of Ethernet’s early development and is still relevant in legacy systems and discussions about network protocols. Therefore, in the context of the question focusing specifically on the typical speeds associated with Ethernet period, 10 Mbps stands out as the correct choice.