Networking media recognition for support staff Which Ethernet physical layer standard most commonly uses RJ-45 modular connectors?
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A10Base2 (thin coax)
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B10Base5 (thick coax)
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C10Base-T (twisted pair)
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D10Base-FL (fiber link)
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ENone of the above
Answer
Correct Answer: 10Base-T (twisted pair)
Explanation
Introduction / Context:Correctly identifying cabling and connectors is essential for network installation and troubleshooting. RJ-45 connectors are ubiquitous in copper Ethernet deployments across offices, data centers, and home networks.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- RJ-45 refers to the 8P8C modular connector commonly used for twisted-pair Ethernet.
- Legacy coax and fiber standards use distinct connectors and media.
- We are mapping a connector type (RJ-45) to its corresponding media standard.
Concept / Approach:
10Base-T, Fast Ethernet (100Base-TX), and Gigabit Ethernet (1000Base-T) all use UTP/STP twisted-pair cabling terminated by RJ-45 connectors. By contrast, 10Base2 uses BNC connectors on RG-58 coax; 10Base5 uses vampire taps/AUI; and 10Base-FL is fiber with ST/SC/LC connectors.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Identify the connector in the question: RJ-45 → copper twisted-pair.Match to the Ethernet family built for twisted-pair: 10Base-T (and successors).Select “10Base-T (twisted pair).”Verification / Alternative check:
Vendor installation guides and the IEEE 802.3 standard confirm RJ-45 use in 10/100/1000Base-T implementations.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
10Base2 and 10Base5 are coaxial systems without RJ-45. 10Base-FL is fiber, also not RJ-45.
Common Pitfalls:
Assuming RJ-11 (phone) equals RJ-45; confusing twisted-pair copper with fiber optics; overlooking shielded RJ-45 variants which still indicate copper twisted pair.
Final Answer:
10Base-T (twisted pair).