Crossover Vs. Ethernet

You can determine the type of Ethernet cable by gazing at the ends.

Ethernet cables, also known as networking cables, are an essential component of small networks such as the local area network in a home or small business. Depending on his needs, the consumer may choose a crossover or regular Ethernet cable.

Function

Regular Ethernet cables, also known as straight-through cables, and crossover cables both transfer data between devices such as computers, video game consoles, network switches and routers. Straight-through Ethernet cables only transmit data in one direction, while crossover cables transmit data in both directions.

Usage

Devices such as a network switch, hub or router do not require a crossover Ethernet cable because the device itself switches the direction of the data transfer. Another solution is to connect two straight-through Ethernet cables with a crossover adapter; however, the advent of crossover Ethernet cables that are capable of transmitting data in two directions has rendered the adapter uncommon.

Considerations

According to Microsoft, some newer computers include network adapters that automatically switch the data direction after detecting a network connection. Thus, the user can create a network without a crossover cable, crossover adapter or network switch.

Identification

Users who wish to identify whether an Ethernet cable is straight through or crossover should look at the connectors (ends) of the cable with the clips facing away. If the colored wires are in the same position on both ends, it is a regular Ethernet cable. It is a crossover cable if the positions differ.

References

• TopBits: Ethernet Crossover Cable
• WinPlanet: Straight Talk on Network Cables
• The Internet Centre: Ethernet Cable - Color Coding Diagram
• National Instruments: What are the Differences Between a Standard Category 5 Ethernet Cable and a Crossover Cable?