UTP vs S/UTP-FTP cables

[john]

Hi, I have set up a local network in my home, and I have read that when
using UTP CAT5 cables, we have to use a Switch, while when using FTP
CAT5 cables, we can connect devices directly without a Switch.

However I have read cases of people who used UTP cables to connect
devices directly without a Switch. What is the proper thing for both
cases, direct connection and use of a Switch.

 

[Brian Cryer]

Hi, I have set up a local network in my home, and I have read that when
using UTP CAT5 cables, we have to use a Switch, while when using FTP CAT5
cables, we can connect devices directly without a Switch.

However I have read cases of people who used UTP cables to connect devices
directly without a Switch. What is the proper thing for both cases, direct
connection and use of a Switch.

I'm no network engineer but my understanding is that whether the cables are
UTP CAT5 or FTP CAT5 makes no practical difference - certainly not in an
office or home environment.

In both cases if you are connecting two or more computers then the network
cables should be connected via a hub or switch. The only exception to this
is where you have a network cross-over cable in which case you can connect
two pcs directly to each other.

Assuming you are going to share your internet connection then you will
probably want a router anyway (a router incorporates a switch).

I know the answer is a little late, but I hope it helps.