MDIX or Medium Dependent Interface Crossover is a type of MDI that enables the connection of corresponding devices. It provides a way to connect an MDI port or uplink port on a switch, router, or network hub to another switch or hub using a straight-through cable rather than an Ethernet crossover cable.
An MDIX interface, on the other hand, is an 8P8C or RJ45 modular jack that uses a straight-through cable to connect pins 1 and 2 (transmit) of an MDI device to pins 1 and 2 (receive) of an MDIX device. These two devices are connected using the crossover connection, which refers to the transmit (MDI) lines that must be connected to the receive (MDIX) lines to cross over the signals.
Switches and hubs typically come with one or two ports that can be used as an uplink switch, and they can be used to switch between an MDI and an MDIX interface. This means that with MDIX, network administrators can effortlessly connect devices without worrying about having to use a crossover cable.
FAQs:
What is the difference between MDI and MDIX?
The primary difference between MDI and MDIX is the location of the transmit and receive wire pairs in the connector. While MDIs require an Ethernet crossover cable to connect to another device, MDIX devices use regular straight-through cables to connect with devices on the network.
What devices use MDIX?
MDIX is used in routers, switches, hubs, and computers, and it enables network administrators to interconnect these devices without having to worry about cable types.
How can I identify an MDIX interface?
An MDIX interface is an 8P8C or RJ45 modular jack that uses a straight-through cable to join pins 1 and 2 (transmit) of an MDI device to pins 1 and 2 (receive) of an MDIX device.
Conclusion:
MDIX is an essential technology in networking, making it easier to connect devices without the use of crossover cables. It works by connecting corresponding devices using a straight-through cable and a crossover connection, enabling administrators to interconnect multiple devices with ease.
