CompTIA Network+ Practice Test

What type of fiber is typically used for short-range communication?

1. Single-mode fiber

2. Multimode fiber

3. Coaxial fiber

4. Twisted pair fiber

The correct answer is: Multimode fiber

The choice of multimode fiber for short-range communication is justified by its design and characteristics that facilitate effective data transmission over limited distances. Multimode fiber is constructed with a larger core diameter, allowing multiple light modes to propagate simultaneously. This property enhances the capacity to carry more data over shorter spans, making it ideal for environments like data centers and within buildings where transmissions do not need to travel long distances. The larger core of multimode fiber also means that it can support a broader range of wavelengths. This feature is particularly beneficial for short-range applications where high data throughput is required. By contrast, single-mode fiber, while excellent for long-distance communication due to its ability to maintain signal integrity over extended spans, is not typically utilized for short-range needs due to its smaller core diameter, which limits it to carrying a single light mode. Other options like coaxial and twisted pair cables do not work in the same way as fiber optics. Coaxial cable is primarily used for cable television and broadband internet services, whereas twisted pair cables are commonly used in networking, particularly in Ethernet connections. However, neither of these options provides the same bandwidth and speed capabilities as multimode fiber, especially for short-distance fiber optic communication. Thus, multimode fiber stands out as the