What type of cable is recommended for connecting workstations to a network switch?

The recommended type of cable for connecting workstations to a network switch is a Cat 6 straight-through cable. This type of cable is specifically designed for Ethernet networks and is capable of supporting higher bandwidths and faster speeds compared to older standards like Cat 5e.

Straight-through cables have the same wiring configuration on both ends, which makes them suitable for connecting devices of different types, such as a workstation to a switch. The Cat 6 standard allows for data transmission rates up to 10 Gbps over short distances and provides improved performance in terms of reduced crosstalk and signal interference.

While crossover cables are also used in networking scenarios, they are typically meant for connecting similar devices directly, such as two computers or two switches, without the need for an intermediary device like a switch. Optical fiber cables, whether single-mode or multimode, are generally used for longer distances or in environments where electrical interference is a concern. They are not typically necessary for standard workstation-to-switch connections within a local area network.