A fiber-optic switch allows you to connect two or more fiber-optic cables to form a network. These can behave like a typical Ethernet switch. This article aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of how network switches are connected to fiber. These devices include hubs, switches, access points, routers, and firewalls. You will learn about the four layers of the TCP/IP model and the functions and protocols associated with each layer. With the need for larger bandwidth and rapid data transmission speed, both Ethernet and fiber optic networks have grown. They accommodate copper, fiber optic, and coaxial connections, often integrating lightning protection and surge suppressors to safeguard internal network components.