network cabling Flashcards
What is network cabling, and why is it essential in modern networks?
Network cabling refers to the process of connecting devices to a computer network using physical cables. It is essential because it enables communication and data transfer between networked devices, ensuring reliable and high-speed connectivity.
List and describe the three main types of network cables.
Twisted Pair Cables: Made of two insulated copper wires twisted together, commonly used for Ethernet connections. They are available as:
Shielded Twisted Pair (STP): Provides better protection against interference.
Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP): More commonly used but more vulnerable to interference.
Coaxial Cables: Consist of a central copper wire surrounded by insulation and a braided shield. They are commonly used for broadband internet and cable television.
Fiber Optic Cables: Use light signals to transmit data through thin glass or plastic fibers, ideal for high-speed, long-distance communication.
Name three network cabling standards and briefly describe their purpose.
IEEE 802.3: Defines Ethernet network requirements, including cable specifications and data transmission protocols.
TIA/EIA-568: Establishes standards for commercial building cabling, including installation guidelines and specifications.
ISO/IEC 11801: Defines generic cabling requirements for customer premises to ensure consistent performance.
Identify four key components used in network cabling and describe their functions.
Patch Panels: Provide a centralized point for organizing and managing network cables.
Patch Cords: Short cables used to connect devices to patch panels or network switches.
RJ-45 Connectors: Standard connectors used for terminating twisted-pair cables in Ethernet networks.
Network Interface Cards (NICs): Installed in computers or devices to enable network connectivity.
Explain the three major steps involved in network cabling installation.
Cable Routing: Ensuring cables are properly placed in cable trays or conduits to avoid physical damage and interference.
Cable Termination: Properly securing and connecting cables using appropriate connectors (e.g., RJ-45).
Cable Testing: Checking cable integrity and performance to ensure compliance with networking standards.
What is a Straight-Through Cable? Provide its color configuration and common use cases.
Definition: A Straight-Through Cable is used to connect different types of networking devices, such as a computer to a switch or router.
Color Configuration:
TX Side: White/Orange, Orange, White/Green, Blue, White/Blue, Green, White/Brown, Brown
RX Side: White/Green, Green, White/Orange, Blue, White/Blue, Orange, White/Brown, Brown
Use Cases:
Computer to Switch
Computer to Router
Switch to Router
Define a Crossover Cable, provide its color configuration, and explain when it is used.
Definition: A Crossover Cable is used to connect devices of the same type, such as two computers or two switches.
Color Configuration:
TX Side: White/Green, Green, White/Orange, Blue, White/Blue, Orange, White/Brown, Brown
RX Side: White/Orange, Orange, White/Green, Blue, White/Blue, Green, White/Brown, Brown
Use Cases:
Computer to Computer
Switch to Switch
Router to Router
What is a Rollover Cable, and why is it important in networking?
Definition: A Rollover Cable, also known as a Console Cable, is used to connect a computer to a network device (router or switch) for management purposes.
Color Configuration:
TX Side: White/Orange, Orange, White/Green, Blue, White/Blue, Green, White/Brown, Brown (same as straight-through cable)
RX Side: Reversed TX side (Pin 1 connects to Pin 8, Pin 2 connects to Pin 7, etc.)
Use Cases:
Computer to Router (for configuration)
Computer to Switch (for management)
Compare and contrast Straight-Through, Crossover, and Rollover cables in terms of function and use case.
Straight-Through: Connects different device types, Computer to Switch, Computer to Router
Crossover: Connects same device types, Computer to Computer, Switch to Switch
Rollover: Used for management and configuration, Computer to Router, Computer to Switch
Why is adherence to network cabling standards important in network design and implementation?
Adhering to cabling standards ensures compatibility, performance, and reliability in network installations. It minimizes signal interference, prevents mismatched configurations, and guarantees that networking equipment functions as expected.
You need to set up a new office network where computers will connect to a switch. What type of cable will you use and why?
A Straight-Through Cable should be used because it connects different network device types (computer to switch), ensuring proper communication.
A network technician needs to configure a router but cannot access its settings via a web interface. What type of cable should they use and why?
A Rollover Cable (Console Cable) should be used to directly connect the technician’s computer to the router’s console port for manual configuration.
What test should be performed after terminating a network cable, and why?
Cable Testing should be performed using a network cable tester to ensure the wiring is correct, the cable functions properly, and it meets performance standards.
