When it comes to working with an existing network or implementing a new one, you need to identify the characteristics of network media and their associated cabling. Whatever type of network is used, some type of network medium is needed to carry signals between computers. Two types of media are used in networks: cable-based media, such as twisted pair, and the media types associated with wireless networking, such as radio waves. Different types of network cables are used depending on the network's physical layer, topology, and size.

In networks using cable-based media, there are three basic choices:

Coaxial:
Coaxial cable, or coax as it is commonly called, is constructed with a copper core at the center that carries the signal, plastic insulation, braided metal shielding, and an outer plastic covering. Although coax is difficult to install, it is highly resistant to signal interference. The two types of coaxial cabling are thick coaxial (thicknet) and thin coaxial (thinnet). Thick coax was used primarily for backbone cable. It could be run through plenum spaces because it offered significant resistance to EMI and crosstalk and could run in lengths up to 500 meters. Thick coax offers speeds up to 10Mbps, far too slow for today’s network environments.

Twisted Pair:
Twisted pair cabling comes in two varieties, shielded and unshielded. Unshielded twisted pair (UTP) is the most popular due to its lower cost, while Shielded Twisted Pair (STP) can be the solution if you must place cable in environments with lots of potential interference, or if you must place cable in extremely sensitive environments that may be susceptible to the electrical current in the UTP. The popularity of twisted pair can be attributed to the fact that it is lighter, more flexible, and easier to install than coaxial or fiber-optic cable. It is also cheaper than other media alternatives and can achieve greater speeds than its coaxial competition. These factors make twisted pair the ideal solution for most network environments.

Fiber Optic:
Fiber optic cabling consists of a center glass core surrounded by several layers of protective materials. It transmits light rather than electronic signals eliminating the problem of electrical interference. This makes it ideal for certain environments that contain a large amount of electrical interference. It has also made it the standard for connecting networks between buildings, due to its immunity to the effects of moisture and lighting. Fiber optic cable has the ability to transmit signals over much longer distances than coaxial and twisted pair. It also has the capability to carry information at vastly greater speeds. This capacity broadens communication possibilities to include services such as video conferencing and interactive services. In addition, fiber-optic is the most secure of all cable media. Anyone trying to access data signals on a fiber-optic cable must physically tap into the medium. Given the composition of the cable, this is a particularly difficult task. In the ever-increasing search for bandwidth that will keep pace with the demands of modern applications, fiber-optic cables are sure to play a key role.

There are many other alternatives depending on your needs. We can help your network infrastructure working properly and effectively. Feel free to consult with us.