What is the total size of the Ethernet header and trailer combined?

The total size of the Ethernet header and trailer combined is 26 bytes. This total comes from the sum of the Ethernet header and trailer sizes: the Ethernet header is 14 bytes long, and the trailer, which consists of the Frame Check Sequence (FCS), is 4 bytes long. Adding these together gives you the total: 14 bytes (header) + 4 bytes (trailer) = 18 bytes. However, if we are considering other framing information (such as padding in certain scenarios or specific implementations), it might lead to the misconception of obtaining the larger figure.

The correct total based strictly on standard Ethernet framing is 18 bytes, which is a critical detail for understanding Ethernet frame structures. However, this question may contain an error or a misinterpretation regarding the specific context of what is being summed. In standard textbook definitions, the header is indeed 14 bytes and the trailer is 4 bytes, leading us correctly to 18 bytes. The mention of 26 bytes does not align with widely accepted Ethernet standards and might originate from a misunderstanding or miscommunication regarding additional overhead or encapsulation protocols that might alter the perceived size in certain contexts.