Different Types of Cables for Data Centers & IT Infrastructure

Release time : January 01 2026

In today's digital age, data centers are the backbone of our connected world—powering everything from cloud storage and streaming services to corporate networks and online transactions. While servers and cooling systems often grab the spotlight, there's one component that quietly holds it all together: cables. These unsung heroes transmit data, power, and signals, making sure every byte of information reaches its destination efficiently and reliably. But not all cables are created equal. The right cable type can mean the difference between seamless operations and costly downtime, especially as data demands grow exponentially. Let's dive into the world of data center cables, explore the most common types, and uncover how to choose the best fit for your infrastructure.

Why Cable Selection Matters in Data Centers

Before we jump into specific cable types, let's pause to understand why choosing the right cable matters. Data centers are high-stakes environments where even a tiny disruption can lead to lost revenue, damaged reputations, or compliance issues. Cables are the nervous system here—they determine how much data can be transmitted (bandwidth), how fast (speed), and over what distance. For example, a mid-sized e-commerce company's data center might need cables that handle sudden traffic spikes during sales events, while a hospital's IT infrastructure requires cables that prioritize reliability to keep patient records accessible 24/7.

Moreover, data centers are evolving. With trends like edge computing, AI, and 5G, the demand for higher bandwidth (think 100G, 400G, even 800G) and denser connectivity is skyrocketing. Outdated cables can become bottlenecks, limiting your ability to scale. That's why investing in the right cables today isn't just about meeting current needs—it's about future-proofing your infrastructure.

Common Cable Types for Data Centers & IT Infrastructure

1. Copper Cables: The Workhorse of Short-Distance Connectivity

Copper cables have been around for decades, and they're still a staple in data centers—especially for short-distance connections (typically under 100 meters). They use copper conductors to transmit electrical signals, and their affordability and ease of installation make them a go-to for many IT teams. Let's break down the most popular copper options:

Cat6/Cat6a (Category 6/6a): Cat6 is the baseline for modern data centers, supporting speeds up to 10Gbps over 55 meters. Cat6a (the "a" stands for "augmented") ups the ante, handling 10Gbps over 100 meters and reducing crosstalk (signal interference between wires). Perfect for connecting servers to switches or patch panels in the same rack or row.
Cat7/Cat8: For higher performance, Cat7 supports 10Gbps up to 100 meters and 40Gbps up to 50 meters, while Cat8 is the new kid on the block, hitting 25Gbps or 40Gbps over 30 meters. These are ideal for high-density areas like top-of-rack (ToR) switches where speed and minimal interference are critical.

While copper is cost-effective, it has limitations: it's bulkier, heavier, and can suffer from signal loss over long distances. It also generates more heat, which adds to cooling costs in dense data centers.

2. Fiber Optic Cables: The Speed Demons for Long Distances

If copper is the workhorse, fiber optic cables are the race cars of data transmission. Instead of electrical signals, they use pulses of light to send data, allowing for much higher bandwidth and longer distances. Fiber is thinner, lighter, and immune to electromagnetic interference (EMI)—a game-changer in noisy data center environments. Here are the two main types:

Multimode Fiber (MMF): As the name suggests, multimode fiber uses multiple light paths (modes) to transmit data. It's ideal for short to medium distances (up to 550 meters for high speeds like 40Gbps) and is often used to connect switches between racks or floors. Common variants include OM3 and OM4, with OM4 supporting higher bandwidth over longer distances than OM3.
Single-Mode Fiber (SMF): Single-mode fiber uses a single light path, making it perfect for long-haul transmissions—think kilometers, not meters. It's the choice for connecting data centers across campuses or even cities, as it can carry 100Gbps+ signals over 10+ kilometers with minimal loss. While more expensive than multimode, its scalability makes it a favorite for future-focused infrastructure.

Fiber's main downside? Higher upfront costs for both cables and connectors, plus the need for specialized tools and expertise to install. But for data centers planning to scale, the investment often pays off in the long run.

Feature	Copper Cables (Cat6a/Cat8)	Fiber Optic Cables (OM4/SMF)
Max Speed	40Gbps (Cat8, short distances)	100Gbps+ (SMF, long distances)
Max Distance	100m (Cat6a), 30m (Cat8)	550m (OM4, 40Gbps), 10km+ (SMF, 100Gbps)
Immunity to EMI	Low (susceptible to interference)	High (no electrical signals)
Cost	Lower upfront cost	Higher upfront cost, better long-term value
Best For	Short-distance, high-density connections (e.g., server-to-switch)	Long distances, high bandwidth (e.g., inter-data center links)

3. Data Center-Specific Cables: Tailored for High Performance

Beyond the basics, data centers often rely on specialized cables designed for their unique challenges. These include:

Direct Attach Cables (DACs): DACs are short, pre-terminated copper or fiber cables that connect switches directly to servers or other switches. They're cost-effective, low-latency, and perfect for high-density environments like top-of-rack (ToR) setups. Copper DACs are great for very short distances (1-5 meters), while fiber DACs (AOCs, or Active Optical Cables) extend that to 100+ meters with better signal integrity.
Power Cables: Data centers don't just need data—they need power to run servers, cooling, and lighting. Power cables come in various gauges (thicknesses) to handle different current loads, with options like twist-lock connectors for secure, vibration-resistant connections. Energy efficiency is key here, so many modern data centers opt for high-efficiency power cables to reduce energy loss.
Specialty Cables: For unique environments, there are cables like plenum-rated cables (fire-resistant for air ducts), armored cables (for harsh conditions), or low-smoke zero-halogen (LSZH) cables (safer in enclosed spaces, as they release fewer toxic fumes if burned).

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Cables

With so many options, how do you pick the right cable for your data center? Here are the critical factors to weigh:

Bandwidth & Speed Needs: Start with your current data demands, then multiply by 2-3 to account for growth. If you're handling 10Gbps today but expect 40Gbps in 3 years, choose cables that support 40Gbps+ from the start.
Distance: Copper works for short links (under 100m), while fiber is better for longer runs. For inter-rack connections, DACs might be the most efficient.
Environment: High temperatures, humidity, or EMI? Fiber or LSZH cables are better suited. If space is tight, fiber's thin profile saves valuable rack space.
Cost vs. Longevity: Copper is cheaper upfront, but fiber offers better scalability. Ask: Will upgrading copper in 2 years cost more than investing in fiber now?
Compliance: Some industries (like healthcare or finance) have strict standards for data transmission and safety. Ensure cables meet certifications like TIA/EIA, ISO, or local fire codes.

Partnering with a Trusted Cable & Building Materials Supplier

Choosing the right cables is only half the battle—you also need a supplier you can rely on to deliver quality, consistency, and support. That's where a one-stop architectural solution provider like Coloria comes in. With decades of experience in the building materials industry, Coloria isn't just a cable supplier; it's a partner that understands the full lifecycle of data center and commercial building projects.

As a commercial building materials supplier with deep roots in the Middle East (including a dedicated agency in Saudi Arabia), Coloria brings unique advantages to the table. Its global service network ensures that whether you're building a data center in Riyadh or a corporate campus in Dubai, you'll get the same high-quality cables and support. And because Coloria offers one-stop procurement—from cables and electrical fixtures to solar panels and green building materials—you can streamline your supply chain, reduce logistics headaches, and cut costs.

What truly sets Coloria apart is its commitment to sustainability and innovation. In line with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 and global "dual carbon" goals, Coloria offers a range of green cables and eco-friendly building materials designed to reduce energy use and carbon footprints. For data centers aiming to be more sustainable, this means cables that are not only high-performance but also aligned with environmental targets.

The Future of Data Center Cables: What's Next?

As data centers evolve, so too will their cables. Here are the trends shaping the future:

Higher Speeds: With 800G and 1.6T Ethernet on the horizon, cables will need to handle even faster data rates. Single-mode fiber will play a bigger role here, as will advanced copper standards.
Density & Miniaturization: Data centers are packing more servers into smaller spaces, so cables will get thinner and more flexible. Expect to see smaller fiber connectors (like MPO-12 or MPO-24) and ultra-thin copper cables.
Smart Cables: Imagine cables with built-in sensors that monitor temperature, signal loss, or damage in real time. Smart cables could alert IT teams to issues before they cause downtime, making data centers more proactive than reactive.
Sustainability: From recycled materials to energy-efficient designs, green cables will become the norm as data centers aim for net-zero goals. Coloria's focus on sustainable building solutions positions it perfectly to lead this trend.

Final Thoughts: Cables Are the Foundation of Your Data Center

Cables might not be the most glamorous part of data center infrastructure, but they're undeniably critical. Choosing the right type—whether copper for short, cost-effective links or fiber for long-distance speed—can future-proof your operations and keep your data flowing smoothly. And when it comes to sourcing these cables, partnering with a supplier that offers expertise, global reach, and a commitment to quality (like Coloria) can make all the difference.

At the end of the day, data centers are about connecting people, businesses, and ideas. And behind every connection is a cable—quietly, reliably, and relentlessly doing its job. So next time you walk through a data center, take a moment to appreciate these unsung heroes. They're the reason the digital world keeps turning.