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Networking Fundamentals · Foundational

Intermediate Distribution Frame (IDF)

A secondary telecommunications room that serves a floor or area, connecting horizontal cabling to access switches and backbone links to the MDF.

Definition

IDFs are placed so that every work area is within the 90 m horizontal cabling limit. They typically contain patch panels, access switches, PoE power and UPS units.

Example

Each floor of an office tower has an IDF closet with access switches.

Exam tip

IDFs exist because of the 100 m copper distance limit.

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