Wired networks are network connections that use physical or wired infrastructure to transmit data between devices and across networks. These cables provide a stable and reliable means of communication, making wired networks suitable for various applications, from local area networks (LANs) within homes and businesses to large-scale data centers and the backbone. Ethernet is the most common wired networking technology for LANs. It uses twisted-pair copper (e.g., Cat 5e, Cat 6) to connect devices in a local area network.
Coaxial cables are commonly used for television (CATV) networks and broadband internet connections. They provide higher bandwidth than twisted-pair cables but are not as fast as fiber-optic . Fiber-optic cables use light signals to transmit data and offer extremely high , low latency, and are immune to electromagnetic interference. Fiber-optic networks are often used for long-distance data transmission, internet backbones, and high-speed connections between data centers.
Common types of Ethernet cables include , Cat6, Cat6a, and Cat7. They have RJ-45 connectors and use color-coded wires. Ethernet cables come with or without . Shielded cables have additional protection against interference and are suitable for environments with potential electromagnetic interference (EMI). Wired Ethernet connections are common in homes and businesses, connecting devices like , printers, and servers, while data centers use wired connections, often fiber-optic, to interconnect servers and storage devices, providing high-speed and low-latency communication.