Connect any computer or device to Ethernet with the right cable jack or adapter
What are the main different types of cable jacks for computers?
Despite the popularity of wireless connectivity via Wi-Fi, cables are still a very popular way of connecting computers to a network. However, to make that connection the cables must plug into a corresponding port or cable jack on the computer.
There are various jacks on most PCs, but the most common include the 3.5mm audio jack and the RJ45 Ethernet jack. Many high-end servers lack Ethernet connectivity, instead using SFP (Small Form Factor Pluggable) ports so they aren’t locked to any single wired high-speed communication standard. This makes plug-in RJ-45 Ethernet SFP jacks a very popular add-on. They are available in different speeds, including 10BASE-T, 100BASE-T, 1000BASE-T, and 1000BASE-SX
What are the different types of cable adapters?
Cable adapters are a popular accessory for any computer. They serve a critical purpose: using an existing port on the PC to connect using a different wired method. The adapter essentially changes the data transmission method from one standard to another. The most popular method is to plug into the USB port on the computer, since virtually all PCs are equipped with USB ports, and they support relatively high-speed data transmission.
The port on the “business end” of the adapter varies. One of the most popular choices is a USB Ethernet adapter, since few laptops released in recent years include a built-in RJ 45 ethernet jack. With some laptops now offering only USB-C ports, USB-C to USB-A adapters are in high demand. Also offered are options including USB to serial adapters, and USB-A to USB-B adapters.
When would you use a cable jack or adapter?
A cable jack or adapter is the best option whenever you have a computer that needs to connect to a network or device, but lacks the required port.
Ethernet is often at the heart of these issues. Ethernet is the preferred high-speed connection method in many offices (it’s both fast and secure), but with the popularity of Wi-Fi, many computers now lack an RJ45 jack—especially laptops. An ethernet adapter (typically RJ45 to USB) lets someone bring a laptop into the office and connect to the Ethernet network.
Higher end servers and telecommunications systems may be equipped with SFP ports, to ensure the ability to support the fastest current wired connection standard. They would use a plug-in SFP module that terminates in an RJ45 Ethernet jack in order to connect to an Ethernet network.