Simple Definition of Ethernet Cables and Speeds
Ethernet is a widely-used local area network (LAN) technology that uses a bus or star topology and supports data transfer rates of 10 Mbps. Fast Ethernet, also known as 100BASE-T, is an extension of Ethernet that supports data transfer rates of 100 Mbps. Gigabit Ethernet, also known as 1000BASE-T, is another extension of Ethernet that supports data transfer rates of 1 Gbps. 10 Gigabit Ethernet, also known as 10GBASE-T, is the latest extension of Ethernet that supports data transfer rates of 10 Gbps.
Fiber and Ethernet Cables
The chart compares different types of fiber and Ethernet cables and their respective speeds and maximum lengths. Copper Ethernet, also known as CAT5 and CAT6, supports data transfer rates of 10/100 Mbps and 10/100/1000 Mbps respectively and has a maximum length of 100 meters.
Fiber Ethernet, on the other hand, is divided into two types: multi-mode and single-mode. Multi-mode fiber Ethernet supports data transfer rates of 10/100/1000 Mbps and has a maximum length of 2000 meters. Single-mode fiber Ethernet supports data transfer rates of 10 Gbps and has a maximum length of 40 km. It is important to note that the maximum lengths stated are general guidelines and actual performance may vary depending on specific cable type, installation, environment, and equipment.
What is next?
We will continue to explore the basics of networking in multiple series, as well as other individual posts
About the Author:
Andres Sarmiento, CCIE # 53520
With over 18 years of professional experience, Andres is a specialist in Unified Communications and Collaboration technologies, Enterprise Networks, and Network Security. He has consulted for numerous companies in South Florida, including Financial Institutions, on behalf of Cisco Systems. Andres has played a key role in several high-profile implementations, utilizing Cisco technologies such as Data Center, UC & Collaboration, Contact Center Express, Routing & Switching, Security, and Hosted IPT Service Provider infrastructures.