What is a common characteristic of Ethernet cabling?

Ethernet cabling is commonly characterized by its susceptibility to electromagnetic interference (EMI). This is particularly true for twisted-pair cables, such as Cat5e or Cat6, which are widely used in Ethernet networks. These cables consist of pairs of wires that are twisted together to help cancel out electromagnetic interference from external sources, such as motors or fluorescent lights. However, despite this design to mitigate EMI, the cables can still be affected, especially over longer distances or in environments with significant electrical noise.

This susceptibility to interference can impact the performance and reliability of data transmission, making it a crucial aspect of understanding Ethernet cabling. In contrast, while fiber optic cables are immune to EMI, they are not representative of all Ethernet cabling. Other forms of cabling, like coaxial, also have differing characteristics. Therefore, recognizing that Ethernet cabling can indeed be influenced by electromagnetic interference is key to comprehending its practical usage and limitations in networking.