What is the byte size of the 'Destination' field in an Ethernet header?

What is the byte size of the 'Destination' field in an Ethernet header?

• A. 5 bytes
• B. 6 bytes
• C. 7 bytes
• D. 8 bytes

Answer: (B)

In an Ethernet header, the 'Destination' field is critical for identifying the intended recipient of the frames being transmitted over a network. This field, which specifies the MAC (Media Access Control) address of the destination device, is precisely 6 bytes in size. Each byte consists of 8 bits, and thus the total size allows for a sufficiently large number of unique addresses to be represented, enabling effective communication between numerous devices on a local area network. To provide context regarding the other choices, the sizes of 5 bytes, 7 bytes, and 8 bytes do not align with the standard defined by the IEEE 802.3 specification for Ethernet frames. The 6-byte size allows for the necessary scope of MAC addressing, accommodating the needs of networking without exceeding the framework's limitations. Understanding this structure is vital for anyone studying networking principles, particularly in settings where Ethernet technology is employed.

In an Ethernet header, the 'Destination' field is critical for identifying the intended recipient of the frames being transmitted over a network. This field, which specifies the MAC (Media Access Control) address of the destination device, is precisely 6 bytes in size. Each byte consists of 8 bits, and thus the total size allows for a sufficiently large number of unique addresses to be represented, enabling effective communication between numerous devices on a local area network.

To provide context regarding the other choices, the sizes of 5 bytes, 7 bytes, and 8 bytes do not align with the standard defined by the IEEE 802.3 specification for Ethernet frames. The 6-byte size allows for the necessary scope of MAC addressing, accommodating the needs of networking without exceeding the framework's limitations. Understanding this structure is vital for anyone studying networking principles, particularly in settings where Ethernet technology is employed.