Ethernet and LAN cables are two different types of cables that are used for networking purposes. There are a few differences between them, but the two can be used interchangeably in most cases.
This article will discuss Ethernet and LAN cables plus their differences so as to better understand Ethernet.
What is an Ethernet Cable?
It is used to send data from one device to another and consists of twisted pairs of copper wires. The Ethernet cables are available in different types and speeds according to their usage. Ethernet cables must be plugged directly into your router or modem in order for you to access the internet.
What Does an Ethernet Cable Do?
Ethernet cables are used in all types of networking situations, including home networks, small offices, and large corporate networks. They’re also used as a way to connect gaming consoles and other devices with high-bandwidth requirements.
The Ethernet cable has 8 wires inside it, which are color-coded so that you can easily identify them.
Have 4 Pairs of Wires
The most common type of Ethernet cable is the twisted pair cable, which has 4 pairs of wires inside it. One pair carries the data, while the other three take power for the device at the far end of the cable and two more wires that keep tabs on how much data has been sent across each pair so they don’t overload.
Cables can be made with various combinations of fiber optic, coaxial, and twisted pair cables. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages depending on your needs and budget:
Twisted Pair Cable
This is the most common type of Ethernet cable used today. The wires are twisted together to reduce interference from nearby sources like power lines or radio signals.
The twisted pair Ethernet cable is commonly used because it provides a better signal quality than UTP (Unshielded Twisted Pair) cables. However, these cables are more expensive than UTP cables.
Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP)
It consists of four pairs of wires twisted together into one cable with no additional protection from interference or noise coming from outside sources such as radio waves etc. UTP can be used for indoor and outdoor applications depending on the cable’s quality.
Fiber Optic Cable
This type of cable consists of glass or plastic fibers that carry light pulses instead of electrical signals like other types of networking cables such as UTP or STP do.
Fiber optic is immune to electromagnetic interference and offers very fast speeds with distances up to 50 kilometers (30 miles). However, it’s expensive because it requires specialized equipment for installation.
What is LAN?
A local area network (LAN) is a computer network that connects devices in a limited geographical area such as a home, school, office building, or closely positioned group of buildings. Every device on the network must be connected to a central hub using cable or wire.
This type of cable is usually used by large companies and organizations to connect their computers with each other.
This type of network is also called “wired” because it uses wires to connect all devices. Some small networks can use wireless technology instead of wires to connect some or all devices on the network.
Ethernet Cable vs LAN Cable
The main difference between Ethernet and LAN cables is that the Ethernet is used to connect devices to the internet, while the LAN is used to connect devices within a small area.
The LAN cable is also a networking cable, but it is not as popular as the Ethernet cable due to its limitations. The LAN cable can be used for short distances so it cannot be compared with the Ethernet cable.
LAN Is Centralized While Ethernet Is Decentralized
A LAN usually has one central connection point called a hub or switch, which connects all computers within that area together and makes sure they can share information with each other easily without having to go through other connections outside the building first.
However, the Ethernet cable is decentralized because it does not have any central point where all the devices are connected together. Instead, it has multiple points where all devices are connected together at once.
Have different Lengths and Speeds
Ethernet cables can only be purchased in specific lengths and speeds based on their category rating.
Category 5 cables have a maximum length of 100 meters while Category 6 can be up to 185 meters long, etc.
LAN cables can be used up to several hundred feet or more. High-quality LAN cables can support speeds up to 10 Gbps, while low-quality versions may only be able to do 100 Mbps or 1 Gbps.
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