What does the term 'frame fragmentation' mean in Ethernet?

The term 'frame fragmentation' in Ethernet pertains specifically to the situation where a large frame is divided into smaller segments. This process occurs to ensure that the data can be transmitted effectively without exceeding the maximum transmission unit (MTU) limit, which defines the largest size of a frame that can be sent over a particular network medium.

When a frame is larger than the MTU, it cannot be transmitted in its original size without risking loss or transmission errors. Consequently, it must be fragmented into smaller units that conform to the MTU size. This ensures that all parts of the original frame can be transmitted successfully and reassembled by the receiving device.

Understanding this concept is crucial for networking because it relates to how data travels across networks and the efficiency of transmissions. Proper management of frame sizes helps to avoid performance issues and ensures that communication across devices remains smooth and effective.