Fast Ethernet operates at 100 Mbps while Gigabit Ethernet operates at 1000 Mbps, making it ten times faster. Gigabit Ethernet has a longer coverage range of up to 70 km compared to Fast Ethernet's 10 km. Gigabit Ethernet requires specialized devices, raising costs and complexity, unlike Fast Ethernet. The following pointers will help you understand it better and give tips on how to choose between Fast Ethernet and Gigabit Ethernet. Speed:As discussed earlier, Fast Ethernet offers a LAN speed of 100 Mbps, while Gigabit Ethernet provides a LAN speed of 1000 Mbps, which is 10 times faster than Fast Ethernet. Fast Ethernet is suitable for small businesses or home applications that require a maximum LAN speed of 100 Mbps. On the other hand, Gigabit Ethernet is ideal for applications that demand high Internet speeds and LAN speeds. Round-trip Delay (RTD): This refers to the time duration taken by a web browser to send the signal and receive the acknowledgment from the server. Round-trip time or Round trip-delay is expressed in milliseconds. When discussed in terms of computer networks, it is also referred to as a ping time. The Gigabit Ethernet has a delay of 4000-bit times, and the Fast Ethernet has a delay of 100-150 bit times. On looking at the numbers, one can realize that the Fast Ethernet has slightly longer delay times than Gigabit Ethernet. Device Requirements: As said before, both these Ethernet types utilize similar devices, but have slightly different requirements. The Fast Ethernet does not require specific devices, whereas Gigabit Ethernet requires specifically designed cables and Ethernet switches. Thus, it raises the cost of investment. Configuration: Owing to their requirement for special devices, the configuration problems are little higher in Gigabit Ethernet than the Fast Ethernet. Upgrades: Standard Ethernet to Fast Ethernet upgrade is easy and requires no major investments. However, Fast Ethernet to Gigabit Ethernet upgrade requires major investment and there are several complexities involved in it. Coverage: Fast Ethernet offers a coverage of 10 km and Gigabit Ethernet can cover up to 70 Kms.