10 Gigabit Ethernet Cable Choices for Maximum Throughput

The Best Cable Choice for Maximum Throughput

Prev Question Next Question

Question

A server technician is connecting a server to a switch in the server room.

Both the server and the switch are equipped with 10 Gigabit Ethernet adapters.

Which of the following cable choices would produce the BEST throughput?

Answers

Explanations

Click on the arrows to vote for the correct answer

A. B. C. D.

C.

The BEST cable choice for connecting a server with a 10 Gigabit Ethernet adapter to a switch with a 10 Gigabit Ethernet adapter is a CAT6 straight-through cable (Option C).

Explanation:

  1. Rollover cable (Option A) - A rollover cable is used to connect a computer to a router or switch console port. It has a reversed pin-out compared to other Ethernet cables and is not suitable for connecting two devices directly. Therefore, Option A is not the BEST choice for this scenario.

  2. CAT5e straight-through cable (Option B) - A CAT5e straight-through cable is capable of handling up to 1 Gigabit Ethernet speeds. However, since both the server and the switch are equipped with 10 Gigabit Ethernet adapters, the use of a CAT5e cable will create a bottleneck and limit the throughput. Therefore, Option B is not the BEST choice for this scenario.

  3. CAT6 straight-through cable (Option C) - A CAT6 cable is capable of handling up to 10 Gigabit Ethernet speeds and is designed for use with high-speed Ethernet protocols. Since both the server and the switch are equipped with 10 Gigabit Ethernet adapters, a CAT6 straight-through cable is the BEST choice for this scenario.

  4. CAT5e crossover cable (Option D) - A CAT5e crossover cable is used to connect two devices directly, without the use of a switch or hub. However, most modern switches and network devices support auto-MDI/MDIX, which automatically detects the type of cable and adjusts the connection accordingly. Therefore, a crossover cable is not necessary in this scenario, and Option D is not the BEST choice.

In conclusion, the BEST cable choice for connecting a server to a switch with 10 Gigabit Ethernet adapters is a CAT6 straight-through cable (Option C).