In contrast, fiber optic cables can transmit data over much longer distances, up to tens of kilometers, without significant signal loss. When choosing between Ethernet and Fiber Optic for network connections, it's essential to understand the differences in speed, performance, reliability, and cost. Both technologies are widely used, but they serve different purposes depending on the scale and requirements of the network. Attenuation is the weakening of light as it comes in from the transmitting end of the fiber and out of the transmitting end. Fiber optics offer significantly higher bandwidth and lower signal loss than Ethernet, making them ideal for.