10Gb networking - modules needed as well as cables?

Bluecube · 2 Aug 2025 at 11:58

Just for fun I thought I’d buy a SFP+ fibre cable to hook up a Ubiquiti switch to my Aoostar NAS. Both have 10Gb fibre ports so I assumed all I needed was a cable. Having it ordered the cable, I decided to do some research (I know, I know!!) and it seems I’ll need corresponding modules to slot into the ports before I can fit the cable. Is this correct? The reason I ask is that cable fitments look as if they’ll go straight into the 10Gb ports.

ChrisD. · 2 Aug 2025 at 12:33

Did you buy actual fibre or a DAC?

Avalon · 2 Aug 2025 at 12:46

A DAC will fit directly, as will an AOC cable (basically two lots of optics and a bit of fiber), OM3/4 or SMF will require optics on each end.

Bluecube · 2 Aug 2025 at 13:09

I bought a DAC cable so I think that’ll fit directly without any module required as Avalon says

Snapshot · Sunday at 17:58

Yup, DAC cables plug straight in to the SFP+ ports. I have one linking the switch on my desk to the one underneath.

Bluecube · Sunday at 21:03

Cable arrived today, plugged straight into the switch and eventually plugged straight into the Aoostar once I figured out it went in upside down compared to the switch… 10Gbps of unnecessary network speed now on tap for a £10(ish) cable. Nice!

Steveocee · Monday at 14:53

Bluecube said:
Cable arrived today, plugged straight into the switch and eventually plugged straight into the Aoostar once I figured out it went in upside down compared to the switch… 10Gbps of unnecessary network speed now on tap for a £10(ish) cable. Nice!

It starts at that……