Distance, signal quality and security

---

Another advantage of fibre optic cables is signal strength over long distances. Copper cables suffer from signal attenuation, especially over extended lengths, necessitating signal boosters or repeaters. Fibre optics can transmit data over much greater distances without loss of signal quality, making them ideal for long-haul communication networks and undersea cables. They’re inherently more secure, due to transmitting light rather than electrical signals, and they’re difficult to tap without disrupting the signal. In contrast, copper cables emit electromagnetic signals are easier to intercept, compromising data confidentiality.

What about copper cables?

---

While fibre optic cables offer numerous advantages in modern communication and data transmission, copper cables still hold some advantages that make them relevant in specific applications.

Copper cables are generally more cost-effective to manufacture, install and maintain, compared to fibre optic cables. They are compatible with a wide range of existing infrastructure and devices. Many older networking and communication systems are designed to work with copper cables, making them a practical choice for incremental upgrades or when complete infrastructure overhauls are not feasible. Many companies choose copper cable for power-over-ethernet (PoE) applications, to enable them to deliver both data and electrical power over the same cable. This feature is advantageous in scenarios where power efficiency is a priority.

Which is better?

---

Fibre optic cables have revolutionised how we communicate and transmit data, outperforming traditional copper cables in various critical aspects. The superior speed, bandwidth, security, reliability and adaptability of fibre optic technology make it the go-to choice for building efficient and future-proof communication networks across the globe. As technology evolves, fibre optics will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the digital landscape.

But copper cables offer advantages in terms of cost, compatibility, familiarity and power efficiency over shorter distances. While fibre optics have primarily surpassed copper in many modern applications, copper cables remain a viable option in specific contexts where their benefits align with the requirements of the infrastructure, budget constraints, or existing systems.