Network Media Selection Criteria

Selecting Network Media

• Network media selection involves assessing bandwidth requirements to ensure sufficient data transmission capacity.
• Environmental factors such as electromagnetic interference (EMI) and physical obstacles can influence media choice and installation placement.
• Cost-effectiveness should be evaluated, considering both initial expenses and long-term maintenance.

Network Media Installation Factors

• Installation complexity is crucial; some media types require specialized skills or tools, impacting deployment time and cost.
• Physical medium needs to be compatible with existing infrastructure to avoid additional upgrades or modifications.
• Regulatory and safety considerations play a role, including adherence to local codes and standards.

Data and Data Transfer Rate Influences

• The type of applications being used determines the amount of data needed; high-definition video and large file transfers require greater bandwidth.
• User density in an area can affect data transfer rates; multiple users concurrently accessing the network can strain capacity.
• Technology advancements, such as faster protocols, enable improved data transfer rates; thus, newer media technologies should be prioritized.

Impact of Distance Between Hosts

• Longer distances can result in signal attenuation, reducing the strength and quality of the transmitted data.
• The choice of media often hinges on distance limitations; fiber optics may be favored for long-range connections, while copper cables suit shorter spans.
• Latency issues increase with distance, influencing real-time applications, hence necessitating careful media selection based on host proximity.

Test your knowledge about the criteria to consider when selecting network media, including cost, environment, data amount, transfer rate, and distance between hosts.