What type of cable is typically used in home networking?

Copper cable is typically used in home networking due to its cost-effectiveness, ease of installation, and the ability to support the high-speed internet connections that most households require. It is available in various forms, such as Ethernet cables (e.g., Cat5e, Cat6, Cat6a), which are specifically designed to connect devices like computers, routers, and switches in a local area network (LAN). These cables can transmit data effectively over short to moderate distances, making them ideal for typical residential setups.

While optical fiber cable does offer higher speeds and greater bandwidth over long distances, it is generally more expensive and requires specialized installation, making it less common in standard home networks. Coaxial cable is often used for cable television and internet service but is not typically a standard choice for local connectivity within a home network. Satellite cable is designed for satellite internet and television services and is not used for networking. Therefore, copper cable stands out as the most practical option for home networking.