Ethernet is used in a LAN, or Local Area Network. The reason is because it is easy to understand. It is the traditional technology for connecting wired local area networks so they can communicate with each other by the use of a given set of rules or protocol.
An Ethernet cable is the encased wiring, the physical part over which data travels. It is the obvious choice because not only is it easy to understand, it is also inexpensive compared to most other options. It is simple to maintain too.