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Networking Fundamentals · Foundational

Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP)

Twisted-pair cable without metallic shielding, relying only on twisting to reject interference; the most common LAN cable.

Definition

UTP is inexpensive, flexible and easy to terminate, which makes it the default for office horizontal cabling. It is more susceptible to EMI than shielded cable, so it should be routed away from fluorescent lights, motors and power cables.

Example

Cat 6 UTP runs from the patch panel to each desk.

Exam tip

In high-EMI environments such as factory floors, choose STP or fiber over UTP.

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