What type of cable is most commonly used for local area network (LAN) connections?

The most commonly used type of cable for local area network (LAN) connections is the Ethernet cable. Ethernet cables, specifically Category 5e (Cat 5e) and Category 6 (Cat 6), are designed to facilitate high-speed, reliable data transfer between devices in a network. They utilize twisted pairs of copper wires, which help reduce interference and crosstalk, making them ideal for connecting computers, routers, switches, and other networking devices in home and office environments.

Fiber optic cables, while capable of high-speed data transmission and commonly used in backbone connections or long-distance networking, are less prevalent for individual LAN connections due to their higher cost and complexity in installation. Coaxial cable was more commonly used in earlier LAN setups but has largely been replaced by Ethernet cabling for most modern networks due to performance metrics and ease of use. HDMI cables, on the other hand, are primarily designed for audio and video connections rather than network data transmission, making them unsuitable for LAN connections.