Which of the following media and links are considered broadband communications channels under common networking usage?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: All of the above

Explanation:


Introduction:
“Broadband” broadly denotes high-capacity communications capable of carrying wide frequency ranges or multiple channels simultaneously. In practical networking, several physical media and radio links meet this description, enabling high data rates for access networks, backbones, and intercontinental connectivity.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • We consider common infrastructure technologies used for high-rate data carriage.
  • Broadband implies high bandwidth compared to legacy narrowband links (e.g., voice-grade lines).
  • Examples include coaxial systems, optical fiber, terrestrial microwave, and satellite links.


Concept / Approach:
Coaxial cable supports high symbol rates and multi-channel modulation (e.g., DOCSIS). Fiber optic cable provides extremely high bandwidth with low loss, supporting dense wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM). Microwave circuits offer high-throughput, line-of-sight backhaul using wide channels and advanced modulation. Satellite systems use microwave and millimeter-wave bands for broadband backhaul and access. All qualify as broadband under typical definitions used by service providers and standards bodies.


Step-by-Step Solution:
1) Evaluate each option’s capacity characteristics.2) Recognize that each supports multi-MHz to multi-GHz bandwidths or multiplexed channels.3) Conclude that all listed media are categorized as broadband in practice.


Verification / Alternative check:
Regulatory and industry documents (e.g., DOCSIS for cable, ITU-T for fiber systems, ETSI for microwave, and satellite operator specs) consistently treat these as broadband platforms.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Options A–D are each valid, so the composite All of the above is the only correct response.


Common Pitfalls:
Equating “broadband” only with consumer last-mile services; in fact, the term applies across access, metro, backhaul, and core networks.


Final Answer:
All of the above

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