Cables and ports are essential physical components of a network that transmit data between devices. Different cable types support different speeds, distances, and applications.
Used for wired LAN connections via RJ-45 connectors.
| Cable Type | Max Speed | Max Distance | Common Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cat5 | 100 Mbps | 100 meters | Basic networking (obsolete) |
| Cat5e | 1 Gbps | 100 meters | Standard home/office LAN |
| Cat6 | 1–10 Gbps | 55–100 meters | High-speed networks |
| Cat6a | 10 Gbps | 100 meters | Data centers |
| Cat7/8 | 10–40 Gbps | 30–100 meters | Industrial/data center use |
🟩 Note: Both ends should match (straight-through) or be reversed (crossover) based on use.
A Straight-Through Cable is used to connect different types of devices.
A Crossover Cable is used to connect similar types of devices directly.
Modern network devices often support Auto MDI-X, which automatically detects and configures the connection type, making crossover cables less necessary.
Transmit data as light over long distances with very high speed and minimal loss.
| Type | Core Size | Range | Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single-mode (SMF) | ~9 µm | Up to 100 km | Long-distance, high-speed |
| Multi-mode (MMF) | 50–62.5 µm | Up to 2 km | Short-range, LAN, campuses |
| Port Type | Description |
|---|---|
| RJ-45 | Ethernet (Cat5/6) – standard LAN connector |
| RJ-11 | Telephone – older modems or landlines |
| SFP/SFP+ | Small Form-Factor Pluggable – fiber module slot |
| USB-C/Ethernet | Combo adapter for portable network connections |
| Fiber Ports | LC/SC ports on switches, routers, media converters |
Understanding cabling and port types is crucial for building efficient, reliable, and high-speed networks. Following the correct cable category, wiring standards, and port types ensures maximum performance and compatibility.