Network cabling: Types and uses
Network cabling is used to connect and transfer data between a network and computers. Network cabling requires the use of several types of cable depending on the specific nature of the network. Network cables can be commonly classified into the following types: twisted pair, coaxial, Ethernet crossover, and fiber optic.
A large number of Ethernet networks use the unshielded twisted pair (UTP) cable, comprising four pairs of wires that are housed inside of the lining of the cable. All the pairs are twisted into several additional twists in order to avoid interference from other devices on the network. Such network cabling improves its reliability and reduces network failures. Coaxial cable is also often used for network cabling. With a copper conductor in its center, it has a plastic coating that acts as an insulator between the center conductor and a metal shield.
If a network consists of two or more computers, an Ethernet crossover cable is used to connect them together. There is no need for routers or network switches if this type of network cabling is used. With Ethernet crossover cables, users can also connect their computers through the network interface card (NIC). Fiber optic cables are used primarily for networks that cover a long distance. Due to this reason, such cabling has several layers of protective coating. Unlike other cables that carry electrical signals, fiber optic cables transmit light.
However, wireless technology has made wireless networks extremely popular these days. But in spite of that, network cabling continues to be used especially for large scale systems.
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