The uses of network cables

The uses of network cables
The primary function of network cables (network cables) is to transmit data signals and connect network devices. They can be classified into the following categories:

1. Basic networking purposes
Computers / devices accessing the internet: Connecting computers, routers, switches, NAS, printers, etc., to achieve wired network access
Router ↔ Optical modem / Switch: Main backbone connection for home or office network setup
Cabling in data centers / computer rooms: High-speed interconnection between servers, switches, firewalls
2. Segmentation by scenarios
Table
Scene Common Categories Explanation
Home / Office Broadband Cat5e / Cat6  Gigabit network, most common
10 Gigabit High-speed Network Cat6A / Cat7 / Cat8  Data center, enterprise backbone
Telephone / Voice Cat3 (RJ11/RJ12)  Traditional telephone lines, building intercom
Industrial Equipment M12 Industrial Connector Cables  Robots, automated production lines, resistant to interference and vibration
Elevator / Special Environments Elevator Accompanying Cables Repeated bending during elevator ascent and descent, resistant to flexure
Surveillance / Security Network Cables (PoE Power Supply) One cable transmits data and powers the camera at the same time
Long-distance Outdoor ADSS All-Medium Self-Bearing Optical Cable Overhead laying on power poles, lightning protection and interference resistance
Satellite Communication Starlink Dedicated Line Connects satellite antenna and router

III. Additional Functions
PoE Power Supply: Network cables can simultaneously transmit data and power (such as AP, cameras, IP phones)
Video Transmission: In some scenarios, network cables replace HDMI/SDI for video signal transmission
Analog Monitoring: RG59 Coaxial Cable is used for traditional analog camera video transmission
In short: As long as there is a stable, high-speed, and interference-resistant data connection between devices, network cables are basically indispensable. It depends on the rate, environment, and distance to choose different categories and specifications.