What is the standard data rate supported by Category 5 (Cat 5) UTP cabling in Fast Ethernet deployments?

Introduction / Context:
Structured cabling categories define electrical characteristics that enable certain Ethernet speeds over twisted pair. Category 5 (Cat 5) cabling was widely deployed with 100Base-TX (Fast Ethernet) and remains a baseline for understanding LAN speed support over copper.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Medium: unshielded twisted pair (UTP) Category 5.
• Deployment: typical office Fast Ethernet.
• Maximum segment length per standard: 100 meters for 100Base-TX.

Concept / Approach:

100Base-TX uses two twisted pairs within Cat 5 cable, employing MLT-3 signaling and 4B/5B coding to achieve 100 megabits per second over distances up to 100 meters. While Cat 5e/6 support higher rates (e.g., 1 Gbps+), classic Cat 5 is historically associated with 100 Mbps Fast Ethernet as its standard-rated data rate.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Certification testers for Cat 5 verify parameters (NEXT, attenuation) aligned with 100 Mbps service; links lit at 100 Mbps on legacy switches validate the rating.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

10 Mbps: That is 10Base-T’s rate, typically supported even by lower categories.

4 Mbps / 2 Mbps: Legacy token ring or proprietary rates, not Cat 5’s Fast Ethernet rating.

None of the above: Incorrect because 100 Mbps is correct.

Common Pitfalls:

Confusing Cat 5 with Cat 5e (often used for 1 Gbps). The question asks the standard rating historically tied to Cat 5.

Final Answer:

100 Mbps