When configuring network connections, it's essential to understand the capabilities and limitations of different interface types.
This guide will help you choose the right interface type based on the speed and distance required for your setup. Below is a mapping of common Ethernet interfaces, the type of media they support, their bandwidth rates, and their maximum reach.
| Interface Type | Minimum Media Supported | Rate | Nominal Reach |
|---|---|---|---|
| 100 Base TX | Category 5 electrical | 100 Mbps | 100 m |
| 1000 Base T | Category 6 electrical | 1 Gbps | 100 m |
| 1000 Base SX | Multi Mode fibre | 1 Gbps | 500 m |
| 1000 Base LX | Single Mode fibre | 1 Gbps | 10 km |
| 10G Base SR | Multi Mode fibre | 1 Gbps | 300 m |
| 10G Base LR | Single Mode fibre | 10 Gbps | 10 km |