We have at our disposal numerous devices that allow us to connect computers in a network. We speak for example of routers, network switches or servers. In order for them to fulfill their function, we need to connect the devices together. For example computers connected by cable to the router or a switch. Now, keep in mind that there are a few different options. In this article we are going to talk about what is an SFP port and an RJ45 port .
What are RJ45 ports
These are undoubtedly the most common and used. An RJ45 port allows you to connect network cables. You can have 8 pins and not all of them are always used. These connected are present in routers or network switches . They allow devices to connect to the network.
We can use this type of cable to connect all kinds of equipment. It is the standard connector with which we can connect a computer, television, game console, printers or any domestic peripheral that can access the network via cable to a router or switch.
Although today most of these devices that we mentioned have a wireless connection, the truth is that the use of cable is still widely used. Normally with this we gain stability and quality, in addition to a better Internet speed. After all, Wi-Fi networks are more sensitive to obstacles or distance.
What are SFP ports
On the other hand we have the SFP ports . Gigabit switches have these types of connectors. This is used to connect to a wide variety of fiber optic and Ethernet cables to achieve different functions.
They are mainly used in network switches . They allow the connection of different types of fiber optic cables, such as single and multimode, as well as different speeds (1 Gbps, 10 Gbps…). But they can also connect copper Ethernet cables like CAT5e or CAT6.
Usually the most advanced network switches, those that are used especially in the business environment, have at least two SFP ports. In this way, they can even connect different buildings through fiber optic cabling.
Differences between RJ45 and SFP ports on network switches
We have seen what is an RJ45 port and what is an SFP port. We have seen that there are differences and that each of them could be interesting in certain circumstances, depending on what we are going to use a network switch for or the type of cable we use. Now let’s see what the main differences are.
Connection types
The first difference we can find is in the types of connection that each of them supports. Here we will find limitations or more possibilities depending on the type of port that we are using in our devices.
In this sense, the RJ45 ports will accept Ethernet cables such as CAT5, CAT6, etc. They are the common cables that we use to connect, for example, a computer to a router. On the other hand, the SFP ports are more complete, since they accept fiber optic connection cable modules (both single-mode and multimode), as well as CAT5e, CAT6, CAT7, CAT8 cables …
Maximum distance
The maximum distance allowed by each of the options also varies greatly. The RJ45 ports are useful up to a maximum distance of 100 meters. This makes it more than enough for a home or a small office to connect our devices to the network. However, if you have to connect equipment further afield, there may be limitations.
On the other hand, SFP ports do allow greater distance. We even talk about kilometers, depending on the case. MMF cables can deliver 10 Gbps at a distance of up to 550-600 meters. But in addition, SMF cables can reach up to 150 kilometers. If we connect a CAT5 cable we would have the same 100 meter limitation as the RJ45.
Latency
There are also differences in terms of latency when connecting devices at a distance. In this sense, the SFP ports have a lower latency compared to the RJ45 ports that can give a worse service when we connect equipment at a considerable distance.
Consumption
Especially for a company or organization that is going to have many computers connected in a network, the consumption can vary significantly. SFP ports have a lower consumption compared to RJ45 ports.
Ultimately, these are some of the main differences between RJ45 ports and SFP ports. As we can see, there are mainly changes between the maximum distance and the types of connections.
