What do cables primarily do in a networking setup?

In a networking setup, cables primarily serve the function of connecting devices to facilitate data transmission. They create a physical link between computers, servers, routers, switches, and other network components, allowing them to communicate with one another. Through cables, data can be sent in the form of electrical signals (for copper cabling) or light signals (for fiber optic cabling), ensuring that information can be shared across the network.

This function is essential for any network, as it provides the necessary infrastructure to support various protocols and data transfer rates. By connecting devices, cables enable the exchange of data, which is critical for activities such as internet access, file sharing, and communications among networked systems.