Which of the following statements correctly describes a scenario where a Network Interface Card (NIC) and cable type significantly influence network performance and reliability?

Correct option is B

A NIC with a higher bandwidth capability connected to a Cat6 cable can achieve greater data transfer rates compared to the same NIC connected to a Cat5 cable. This is because Cat6 cables are designed to support higher data transfer rates and frequencies compared to Cat5 cables, allowing for improved network performance and reliability.
Important Key Points:
1. NIC and Cable Compatibility:
· The performance of a NIC is significantly influenced by the type of cable it is connected to.
· Higher category cables (e.g., Cat6) support higher bandwidths and data transfer rates compared to lower category cables (e.g., Cat5).
2. Ethernet vs. Fiber Optic:
· Fiber optic cables can provide higher performance and reliability over longer distances compared to Ethernet cables.
· Ethernet cables (Cat5, Cat6) are suitable for shorter distances but can offer high data transfer rates.
3. Wireless NICs:
· Wireless NICs do not use Ethernet cables; they connect to networks using radio waves.
· Ethernet cables are not used in conjunction with wireless NICs to improve network speed or reliability.
Knowledge Booster:
Cat5 vs. Cat6 Cables:
· Cat5: Supports speeds up to 100 Mbps and frequencies up to 100 MHz.
· Cat6: Supports speeds up to 1 Gbps (and potentially 10 Gbps) and frequencies up to 250 MHz, making it suitable for higher bandwidth applications.
Fiber Optic Cables:
· Use light to transmit data, offering higher speeds and longer distances without signal degradation.
· Ideal for backbone connections in large networks and long-distance communications.
Coaxial Cables:
· Often used for cable television and broadband internet.
· Not typically used for modern high-speed network connections within local area networks (LANs).