Quiz on Ethernet Cables: Connectivity & Uses

Study Notes

Ethernet network cables are used in local networks, connecting devices to routers, modems, or switches, enabling internet access.
There are two types of Ethernet cables: unshielded twisted pair (UTP) and shielded twisted pair (STP).
Unshielded twisted pair cables have four colored pairs of wires twisted together to prevent electromagnetic interference and crosstalk.
Shielded twisted pair cables have a foil shield that provides extra protection against electromagnetic interference and are typically used in industrial settings.
To make your own Ethernet cables, you need to buy a large roll of cable with twisted pairs, strip the outer casing, and attach RJ45 connectors to each end.
There are two main types of Ethernet cables: straight-through cables and crossover cables.
Straight-through cables, also known as patch cables, are used to connect devices to hubs, switches, routers, or modems.
Crossover cables are used to connect two similar devices directly, such as two computers, without the need for a hub or switch.
There are two wiring standards for Ethernet cables: 568A and 568B, which differ in the color coding of the wires.
The 568A standard wires the cable in the following order: white-green, green, white-orange, blue, white-blue, orange, white-brown, and brown.
The 568B standard wires the cable in the following order: white-orange, orange, white-green, blue, white-blue, green, white-brown, and brown.
Category-rated cables (CAT) are classified based on their maximum speed and density of twists per inch, with CAT 3 being the slowest and CAT 7 being the fastest.
The speed of CAT-rated cables ranges from 10 Mbps for CAT 3 to 10 Gbps for CAT 6a and CAT 7.
Most networks today use at least CAT 5e, which can handle gigabit speeds.
CAT 8 is the latest and fastest category of Ethernet cables, with a speed of 40 Gbps over a distance of 30 meters.