In the establishment of a 10G network, we will face a choice, that is, whether we choose optical fiber cabling or copper cabling. Optical fiber cabling systems are divided into multi-mode（MM) optical fiber cabling systems and single-mode(SM) optical fiber cabling systems, among which 10G MM optical fiber cabling systems need to use 10G SFP+ MM optical modules, 10G AOC active optical cables, MM OM3 optical fiber patch cords and distribution case. In addition, the 10G SM optical fiber cabling system requires the use of 10G SFP+ SM optical modules, SM OS2 optical fiber patch cords, distribution case, etc. MM fiber systems are suitable for short-distance transmission, and single-mode fiber systems are suitable for long-distance transmission. Optical fiber transmission has the advantages of long transmission distance, wide bandwidth, strong anti-interference ability, small size and light weight, but its wiring cost is relatively high.

The transmission distance of copper cabling is not as far as fiber cabling, but the cost of copper cabling is lower. Copper cabling requires the use of twisted pairs, 10G DAC high-speed cables, and 10G electrical interface modules. Copper cable can be used in terminal equipment, but it can also be used in switches with RJ45 network ports. It can adapt to 100M/1000MBASE-T connections backwards, so it can be used with existing copper cabling systems. The port on the 10G optical fiber switch is an SFP+ optical port. If it is connected to a copper cabling system, a 10G SFP+ Copper-T RJ45 module can be used, and then a twisted pair cable can be used.

Both optical fiber cabling and copper cabling can be used as a comprehensive cabling solution for the construction of 10G networks. In the case of the same length of optical fiber and copper cable, the price of optical fiber is 5-6 times that of copper cable, so the total cost of optical fiber cabling will be higher than that of copper cable. The wiring is much higher, but the long-distance and high-speed transmission characteristics of optical fiber are unmatched by copper cables. Therefore, under normal circumstances, when you need ultra-large bandwidth and long-distance transmission (such as industrial Ethernet wiring), you can choose optical fiber wiring; in the case of short distance and low transmission rate (such as in a building or corporate office),copper wire is more suitable. Actually, you can match this according to the actual situation.