UTP (Unshielded Twisted Pair) and STP (Shielded Twisted Pair) are the two main types of twisted pair cables used in LAN networks.
Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP) :
It consists of pairs of copper wires twisted together with a single shield covering the wires.
It is less expensive and widely adopted due to ease of installation.
It is more susceptible to ElectromagneticInterference (EMI) and crosstalk, but due to twisting reduce these issues.
UTP is simple to install and requires no special groundings.
Most commonly used in the home and office networks.
UTP cables are used for Ethernet as well as for telephony purposes like VOIP.
UTP provides a maximum reliable transmission distance of around 100 meters and it is more vulnerable to noise issues caused due to vehicles and motors, machines in the company.