Fibre Optic |
Ethernet (Twisted Pair) |
Coaxial |
|
Material |
Glass/ plastic strands | Twisted pair of copper wires | Copper wire encased in a second copper wire |
Speed |
Fastest | Slowest | Slow |
Range |
80KM (80,000m) | 100m | 500m |
Cost |
Expensive | Cheapest | Cheap |
Although ethernet cables are the lowest performing of the three they are perfectly capable of handling data within buildings and as a result are the perfect choice as they are so cheap.
Coaxial cables are sometimes used to transfer data between buildings. They are often used for cable television connections to homes.
Fibre optic cables are used over long distances where their high costs can be justified by the greater speed.