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Home / Glossary / UTP
Glossary · Networking

UTP

Unshielded Twisted Pair

In plain language

The standard network cable that connects computers and devices, made of twisted pairs of wire.

The metaphor

Like the plumbing pipes of an office that carry traffic from one place to another.

Going deeper

How it works

  • Four twisted pairs of wire run inside.
  • Categories such as Cat5e or Cat6 set the speed.
  • Runs are limited to about 100 metres.
  • Damaged cables cause slow or dropping connections.

What can go wrong (example scenario)

A shop had slow Wi-Fi at the till. A badly bent cable behind the counter was the cause, and a new one fixed it.

How WILDCARD handles it

Network covers the managed firewall and switches that sit behind your provider's modem.

In practice
  • Desks are wired to a wall plate.
  • A camera is connected to a switch.
  • A technician swaps a faulty cable.

A question owners ask

What cable should I buy?

Cat6 is a safe choice for new work. Ask your IT provider before running new cable.

Where WILDCARD handles this
Network
  • Firewall managed and monitored
  • Switches kept current
  • On-prem Active Directory auth
Start with Network
Related terms
ACLAccess Control ListAHAuthentication HeaderAPAccess PointARPAddress Resolution ProtocolBPDUBridge Protocol Data UnitCCMPCounter Mode/CBC-MAC ProtocolCCTVClosed-circuit TelevisionCHAPChallenge Handshake Authentication Protocol

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