Cisco Certified Support Technician (CCST) NetworkingNetworking FundamentalsEasy
A network administrator is troubleshooting connectivity issues on a wired Ethernet network. They suspect a cable fault is causing intermittent connection drops. Which type of network cable is most commonly used for connecting a computer to a wall jack or a switch in a modern office environment?
- ASerial cable
- BFiber optic cable
- CCoaxial cable
- DUnshielded Twisted Pair (UTP) cable
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP) cable
Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP) cable, specifically Category 5e or 6, is the most common and cost-effective type of cable used for wired Ethernet connections in local area networks today. Coaxial and fiber optic cables have specific uses but are not typical for standard office workstation connections, and serial cables are for console access or older connections.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Serial cables are used for console access to networking devices or older point-to-point connections, not for general network data transfer.
- B. Fiber optic cable provides high bandwidth and long distances, used primarily for network backbones and high-speed links, not typical desktop connections.
- C. Coaxial cable was used in older Ethernet networks (10BASE2, 10BASE5) and is now primarily for cable TV and internet modems.
Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP)
UTP cable is a type of copper cable used in local area networks, consisting of pairs of wires twisted together to reduce electromagnetic interference.
- Most common type of cable for Ethernet LANs.
- Available in different categories (e.g., Cat5e, Cat6, Cat6a) supporting various speeds.
- Terminated with RJ-45 connectors.
Memory trick: Twisted Pairs are the Top Pick for Typical PC Ports.