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Networking Fundamentals · Foundational

Media Converter

A Layer 1 device that converts signals between different media types, such as copper twisted pair to fiber.

Definition

Media converters extend copper Ethernet beyond 100 m by switching to fiber or connect equipment with incompatible ports. Variants include copper-to-fiber, single-mode to multimode and coax to twisted pair.

Example

A media converter lets a camera with an RJ45 port connect over 500 m of fiber.

Exam tip

Media converters are Layer 1 and do not inspect frames.

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