Media convertersare simple networking devices that make it possible to connect two dissimilar media types such as twisted pair withfiber optic cabling.

Media converters support many different data communication protocols including Ethernet, Fast Ethernet, Gigabit Ethernet, T1/E1/J1,DS3/E3, as well as multiple cabling types such twisted pair, multi-mode and single-mode fiber optics. Media converter types range from small standalone devices and PC card converters to high port-density chassis systems that offer many advanced features for network management.