Ethernet Cable

An Ethernet cable is a common type of network cable used with wired networks. Ethernet cables connect devices such as PCs, routers, and switches within a local area network.

These physical cables are limited by length and durability. If a network cable is too long or of poor quality, it won't carry a good network signal. These limits are one reason there are different types of Ethernet cables that are optimized to perform certain tasks in specific situations.

Color Coding

There are 8 smaller cables within a typical Ethernet cable, each with different colors and stripes.

There are 2 basic configurations:

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Straight-Through

Straight-Through cables are used to connect Endpoints and non-endpoint devices.

Cross-Over

Cross-Over cables are used to connect Endpoints and Endpoints, or non-endpoint and non-endpoint devices.