100M SFP vs 1G SFP vs 2.5G SFP

1. Introduction

This article aims to compare the advantages and disadvantages of 100M, 1G, and 2.5G sfp modules. As a result, it will help readers understand how to select the most suitable module for their specific network requirements. By examining factors such as performance, cost, power consumption, and compatibility, this guide will enable network professionals and engineers to make the best choice based on their individual network environment and goals.

2. basic conception of sfp modules

2.1 What’s SFP modules?

SFP (Small Form-factor Pluggable) modules are compact, hot-swappable transceiver devices used in networking equipment to provide a physical interface for transmitting and receiving data over fiber optic or copper cables. They are commonly used in switches, routers, and other networking hardware for networking and telecommunications.What’s more, they are versatile and allow for flexibility in configuring network speeds and distances without needing to replace the entire device, just by swapping out the appropriate transceiver.

2.2 The principle of operation of SFP modules.

With fiber-optic SFP modules, data is first converted into an electrical signal, which is then converted into an optical signal by a modulated light source (e.g., a laser diode or light-emitting diode), and this optical signal is transmitted via optical fiber. So these modules are used for data transmission over long distances, and common fiber types include single-mode fiber (SMF) and multimode fiber (MMF). The design of the module determines the supported transmission distance (e.g., SR (short range), LR (long range), etc.).

3. Definition and Features of 100 M Sfp, 1 G sfp and 2.5 G Sfp

3.1 100M SFp

100M SFP modules are small form-factor pluggable (sfP) modules. Moreover, they support 100 Mbps data rates. So they are commonly used in applications with lower bandwidth requirements, such as low-speed LANs, small business networks, and simple applications.

Compared to higher-speed SFP modules (such as 1G, 10G, etc.), 100M SfP modules consume less power and are suitable for environments where power consumption limits.

100M SFP optical modules follow the IEEE standard, can be compatible with many different manufacturers of equipment, easy to interconnect equipment. Common 100M fiber optic modules include: 100BASE-FX: multi-mode fiber optic modules; transmission distance is usually 2 km, suitable for medium-distance fiber optic connections.

100BASE-LX: single-mode fiber optic modules, transmission distance up to 10 km or longer, suitable for long-distance fiber optic connections.

However, since most new networks and equipment use 1G, 10G or higher-rate optical modules, 100M optical modules are considered an older technology and are being phased out in modern networks. If the demand for existing networks grows, 100M optical modules may become a performance bottleneck and not be able to support the increased bandwidth requirements.

3.2 1G SfP modules

1G SFP module is mainly used for 1000 Mbps transmission rate. Compared with the 100M Sfp module, it can provide higher bandwidth, suitable for Gigabit Ethernet connections.

What’s more, the 1G optical module supports hotswapping, which means that the module can be inserted or unplugged during the operation of the device without shutting down the device. This facilitates the maintenance and upgrading of network equipment.

1G SFP modules follow the standardized IEEE 802.3z (fiber) and IEEE 802.3ab (copper) protocols and support both fiber and copper interfaces, which are compatible with the majority of network equipment to meet the needs of different transmission distances and network environments.

However, for large-scale data centers, high-traffic applications, or high-definition video transmission, the bandwidth of a 1G SFP module may be insufficient, and modern network requirements often exceed 1Gbps bandwidth. The maximum transmission distance of fiber optic modules is relatively short, especially for 1000BASE-SX modules, which usually do not exceed 550 meters, and longer distance transmission usually requires 1000BASE-LX or higher rate modules.

3.3 2.5G Sfp modules

2.5G SFP module (small form-factor pluggable) is a kind of network communication hardware module for fiber. And it also has a cable connection with high transmission speed and a compact form factor.

SFP modules are widely used in network equipment, supporting different types of interfaces and transmission standards.

The “2.5G” of the 2.5G SFP module refers to the maximum data transmission rate of 2.5Gbps supported by it, which is usually used to connect switches, routers, firewalls, servers and other equipment.

2.5G” of the 2.5G SFP module means that it supports a maximum data transfer rate of 2.5Gbps and is usually used to connect switches, routers, firewalls, servers, etc. 2.5G SFP modules are usually compatible with 1G and 10G SFP modules, which can satisfy the compatibility requirements of different equipment.

2.5G SFPs are suitable for network environments with moderate traffic, such as enterprise data centers, office buildings, campus networks, etc., uplink or backbone networks, and servers and storage devices connected. And compared to 10G SFP modules, 2.5G SFP modules are usually less costly and suitable for scenarios that require high bandwidth but are cost-sensitive.

What’s more, 2.5G SFP modules typically consume less power compared to higher-bandwidth modules, making them suitable for power-sensitive applications.

Although the 2.5G SFP module provides a good transition solution between 1G and 10G, its bandwidth limitations, the trend of gradual replacement by higher bandwidth standards, and relatively high cost make it progressively less attractive in some specific application scenarios.

3.4 100M sfp vs 1G SFp vs 2.5G SfP

4. conclusion

When choosing the right SFP module, decisions should be made based on network bandwidth requirements, budget, and compatibility with existing equipment.