What type of cable is generally used for a straight-through connection?

A straight-through connection is typically made using a specific type of cable known as a straight-through cable. This kind of cable is commonly used to connect different types of devices in a network, such as connecting a computer to a switch or router. The wiring configuration of a straight-through cable adheres to the T568A or T568B standards, ensuring that the transmission and receiving pins of the devices being connected are aligned correctly for proper communication.

In this setup, the send and receive signals are not crossed, which is essential when connecting devices of different types. For example, when you connect a computer (which transmits data on certain pins) to a switch (which receives data on those same pins), the straight-through cable matches the signaling requirements of both devices without the need for a crossover configuration. Crossover cables, on the other hand, are used for direct connections between similar devices, such as two computers or two switches, where the transmit and receive pins must be aligned differently.

This understanding of cabling types and their applications is fundamental to establishing effective network connections, making the straight-through configuration the correct answer in this scenario.