A physical link established through cables, typically metallic or fiber optic, provides a data pathway between devices. This direct connection facilitates communication using protocols designed for the specific cable type, such as Ethernet. An example is the use of an Ethernet cable to connect a computer directly to a network router, enabling data transfer. This contrasts with wireless methods that rely on radio waves or other electromagnetic signals.
The utilization of physical cables offers several advantages, including generally higher data transfer speeds and increased stability in the connection, as it is less susceptible to interference from external sources. Historically, this was the primary method for establishing network connectivity and remains a prevalent solution in environments demanding reliable and high-performance communication, such as data centers and office networks. Its inherent security, due to the physical requirement for access, is another significant benefit.
