How does a fiber network support high data rates?

A fiber network supports high data rates primarily through technologies like SONET (Synchronous Optical Network) and Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM).

SONET is a standardized protocol that defines how to transmit a large quantity of data over optical fiber using time-division multiplexing. This technology allows for the efficient and rapid transmission of data by synchronizing the data signals, which increases the overall data throughput over the fiber network.

Wavelength Division Multiplexing enhances this capability even further by allowing multiple data streams to be transmitted simultaneously over the same fiber cable. It does this by assigning different wavelengths (or channels) of light for each data stream. This means that a single fiber can carry much more data by effectively increasing its capacity without needing additional physical cables.

In contrast, utilizing copper wiring or strategies like Digital Subscriber Lines does not provide the same level of bandwidth as fiber optics. The limitations of copper wiring, particularly in terms of distance and data rate, make it less suitable for high-speed data transmission. Limiting the distance between devices could indeed help manage signal integrity but does not directly contribute to higher data rates. Thus, the response involving SONET and Wavelength Division Multiplexing accurately reflects how fiber networks achieve their high data rates.