The small form-factor
pluggable (SFP) is a
compact, hot-pluggable network interface module used for
both telecommunication and data
communications applications. An SFP interface on networking
hardware is a modular slot for a media-specific transceiver in
order to connect a fiber-optic cable or sometimes a copper
cable.[1] The advantage of using SFPs compared to fixed interfaces
(e.g. modular connectors in Ethernet switches) is that individual
ports can be equipped with any suitable type of transceiver as needed.