Network Cable Types and Common TCP Port Specifications
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1. Coaxial Cable
The most common example of this type is the coaxial television cable. Originally the most widely used cable in local networks due to its high capacity and resistance to interference, its use is currently declining. Its biggest disadvantage is its thickness.
Types of Coaxial Cable
- Thick: Commonly known as "yellow wire," this coaxial cable was used in most early networks.
- Thin: This cable was introduced to reduce the cost of network wiring.
2. Twisted-Pair Cable
This is the most common type of cable. It originated as a solution to connect mobile terminals and computers using the same wiring enabled for data communication, allowing for higher frequency transmission. Previously, European phone systems did not use twisted-pair cables.
Types of Twisted-Pair Cables
- Unshielded (UTP): The standard twisted-pair cable, referenced by the acronym UTP (Unshielded Twisted Pair). Its major advantages are low cost and ease of use. Its primary drawbacks are a higher error rate compared to other cable types and distance limitations without signal regeneration.
- Shielded (STP): Each pair is covered with a metal mesh, similar to coaxial cables, and all pairs are protected by reinforced foil.
- Standard: Each pair is twisted evenly during manufacturing. This eliminates most crosstalk between cables and protects against external interference.
3. Fiber-Optic Cable
This cable consists of one or more threads of fiberglass. Optical fiber is an excellent medium for information transmission due to its high bandwidth, low signal attenuation, data integrity, immunity to electromagnetic interference, high security, and long lifespan. Its primary drawback is the high production cost, necessitated by the use of high-quality glass and the fragility of the manufacturing process.
4. Common TCP Ports for Server Applications
The following ports are typically used for specific server applications:
- HTTP: Ports 80, 443, 8080
- POP3: Ports 110, 995
- HTTPS: Port 443
- SMTP: Port 25