What cable would you use to connect a computer to a switch?

To connect a computer to a switch, a straight-through cable is the appropriate choice. This type of cable is designed for connecting devices that use different types of network interfaces. In this scenario, a computer typically has a network interface card (NIC) that operates as a device transmitting data, while a switch serves as a network hub that connects multiple devices and directs data traffic between them.

In a straight-through cable, the wiring on both ends of the cable follows the same standard—usually T568A or T568B, which defines the arrangement of wires in the connectors. This uniformity in wiring allows for seamless communication from the computer's NIC to the switch's port, facilitating effective data transmission.

Using incorrect types of cables for this connection can lead to communication failures. For instance, a crossover cable is typically used for direct device-to-device connections, such as connecting two computers directly or linking two switches. Coaxial cable is outdated for most Ethernet applications and is not used for standard network connections in modern networking. Fiber optic cable, while very effective for high-speed long-distance communication, is not typically utilized for standard connections between a single computer and a switch unless specific networking requirements are met.