The cabling and connections in a network refer to the physical infrastructure that allows devices to communicate with each other. There are various types of cabling and connections used in networks, depending on the network type and requirements.
Cabling and connections depends on factors such as network requirements, distance, bandwidth needs, and cost considerations. Network installers and administrators select the appropriate cabling and connectors based on these factors to ensure reliable and efficient communication between devices in the network.
Ethernet Cables: Ethernet cables are widely used in both home and business networks. The most common type is the twisted pair cable, which consists of four pairs of copper wires twisted together.
Popular categories of twisted pair
Cat5e: Supports speeds up to 1000 Mbps (Gigabit Ethernet).
Cat6 or Cat6a: Supports higher speeds up to 10 Gbps and provides better noise and interference resistance.
Fiber Optic Cables: Fiber optic cables use thin strands of glass or plastic to transmit data as pulses of light. They offer much higher bandwidth and are more immune to interference compared to copper cables. Fiber optic cables are commonly used in long-distance or high-speed networks, such as backbone connections between buildings or data centers.
Coaxial Cables: Coaxial cables consist of a central conductor surrounded by insulation, a metal shield, and an outer jacket. They are commonly used in cable television (CATV) networks and provide higher bandwidth than twisted pair cables. Coaxial cables are also used for high-speed internet connections in some areas.
Wireless Connections: In addition to wired connections, many networks utilize wireless technology for connectivity. Wireless networks use radio waves to transmit and receive data between devices. Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11) is the most common wireless technology used in homes, offices, and public spaces. It allows devices to connect to a wireless access point or router without the need for physical cables.
Common connectors include
RJ-45: Used with Ethernet cables, typically with twisted pair cables.
SC, ST, or LC: Used with fiber optic cables, providing a secure connection.
BNC: Used with coaxial cables, commonly found in cable TV installations.