Which UTP cable is best for connecting devices with the same media type on both ends?

The best choice for connecting devices with the same media type on both ends is a straight-through cable. This type of cable is designed to connect different types of devices or similar devices that use the same technology, such as a computer to a switch, or a router to a modem. In essence, a straight-through cable maintains the same wiring pattern on both ends, allowing for the correct transmission and reception of data.

A crossover cable, on the other hand, is specifically used for connecting similar devices, such as a switch to another switch or a computer to a computer. It swaps pairs of wires to ensure that the transmit pins on one device connect to the receive pins on another, which is not necessary when connecting devices like a computer to a switch.

Coaxial and single-mode fiber cables represent entirely different media types and standards. Coaxial cables are typically used for cable television and broadband internet, while single-mode fiber cables are used for long-distance high-speed data transmission, generally within optical networks. These options do not apply to the context of connecting devices with the same media type, making straight-through cable the appropriate and optimal choice for such scenarios.