InfiniBand and Ethernet are two common communication network standards, differing significantly in design objectives, transmission rates and latency, reliability and scalability, cost and maintenance, as well as applicable domains. Here’s a summary of their main differences:

1. Design Objectives:
   • InfiniBand: Designed for high-performance connections between servers, storage, and network devices, focusing on high performance, low latency, and high reliability. Primarily used in high-performance computing areas like supercomputers, data centers, and scientific research institutions.
   • Ethernet: A universal protocol used in a wide range of Local Area Networks (LAN) and Wide Area Networks (WAN). Its primary goals are simplicity, flexibility, and scalability, making it widely applied in enterprise networks, internet access, and home networks.
2. Transmission Rates and Latency:
   • InfiniBand: Supports multiple transmission modes with high-speed and low latency, suitable for various application scenarios.
   • Ethernet: While supporting multiple transmission speeds, its latency is relatively higher due to protocol complexity and additional processing steps.
3. Reliability and Scalability:
   • InfiniBand: Boasts high reliability and low power consumption, achieved through high-speed differential signaling and multi-channel parallel transmission. It meets modern data center requirements for performance and reliability.
   • Ethernet: Employs Carrier Sense Multiple Access with Collision Detection (CSMA/CD) to avoid collisions, offering some reliability and scalability, albeit at a comparatively lower level.
4. Cost and Maintenance:
   • InfiniBand: Requires specialized hardware and software, making it relatively expensive. However, it has lower maintenance costs due to its specific design for data center environments.
   • Ethernet: Utilizes standard Ethernet devices, making it cost-effective. However, its intricate configuration results in higher maintenance expenses.
5. Applicable Domains:
   • InfiniBand: Primarily used in high-performance computing areas such as supercomputers, data centers, and scientific research institutions.
   • Ethernet: Widely applied in enterprise networks, internet access, and home networks due to its low cost, standardization, and widespread support.

Considering these factors, the choice of an appropriate protocol depends on specific application requirements and budget constraints. In the evolving and competitive market, both InfiniBand and Ethernet continue to innovate and upgrade to meet the growing demands of data centers.