SFP Modules

Fiber and Copper Transceivers for Every Switch Uplink

SFP modules plug into switch, firewall, and router SFP ports to provide fiber optic or copper uplinks at speeds from 1G to 100G. The lineup from Ubiquiti, HPE Aruba, StarTech, and TRENDnet includes SFP (1G), SFP+ (10G), SFP56 (50G), and QSFP28 (100G) modules in multimode, single-mode, and copper RJ45 configurations for every network tier, all part of the networking infrastructure catalog.

SFP Modules for Every Environment

• Inter-closet fiber links — multimode SFP and SFP+ modules connecting IDFs to the MDF over OM3 or OM4 fiber within a building
• Building-to-building connections — single-mode SFP modules linking campus buildings over distances up to 10 km using OS2 fiber
• Switch stacking and uplinks — SFP+ (10G) and QSFP28 (100G) modules connecting access-layer switches to core or distribution switches for high-bandwidth aggregation
• Firewall uplinks — fiber connections from firewall appliances to core switches for high-throughput perimeter links that keep security inspection off copper bottlenecks
• Short copper runs — RJ45 SFP modules for connections under 100 meters where fiber infrastructure is not yet installed

Choosing the Right SFP Module

Start with your switch port type. SFP ports accept 1G modules, SFP+ ports accept both SFP and SFP+ modules, and QSFP28 ports require QSFP28 modules. Match the fiber type to your cabling: multimode SFP modules (typically OM3 or OM4 with aqua-colored connectors) cover runs up to about 550 meters within a building. Single-mode SFP modules (yellow jacket, OS2) handle runs up to 10 km or more between buildings and campuses. Copper RJ45 SFP modules let you use standard Cat6 or Cat6a cabling for short runs under 100 meters where fiber is not yet installed. SFP56 (50G) modules serve high-speed data center interconnects, while QSFP28 (100G) modules power spine-leaf fabric architectures and backbone aggregation in larger data center environments.

Compatibility and Matched Pairs

Always check your switch's compatibility matrix for supported SFP module types and part numbers. Some switches accept only their manufacturer's branded modules, while others work with third-party compatible transceivers at a lower cost. StarTech and other compatible module vendors test against major switch platforms for verified interoperability. Buy transceivers in matched pairs for point-to-point fiber links, since both ends must use the same wavelength and connector type to establish a clean optical connection. Mismatched wavelengths or connector types will prevent the link from coming up.

Complete Your Fiber Infrastructure

• Ethernet Switches — managed and Layer 3 switches with SFP and SFP+ uplink ports
• Network Firewalls — firewall appliances with SFP ports for high-speed perimeter connections
• Network Cables — Cat6 and Cat6a ethernet cables for copper SFP connections and switch-to-device runs
• Rack Cabinets — server racks for organizing switches, fiber patch panels, and cabling