This fiber optic cable selection guide helps you decide whether now is the right time to buy fiber optic cable, based on three key factors: project phase (new vs. retrofit), installation environment (indoor vs. outdoor), and user density (standard vs. By understanding these. It is crucial to carefully choose your optical fiber cable to ensure optimal performance on your network. multimode, network speed and distance needs, cable jackets/fire ratings, connectors, cost and future‑proofing for data and telecom networks. An optical fiber is a flexible, transparent fiber made by extruding glass (silica) or plastic to a diameter slightly thicker than.