XFP

XFP (10 Gigabit Small Form-factor Pluggable) is a standardised transceiver for data transmission in high-speed networks. The modules are primarily used in 10 Gigabit Ethernet, telecommunications and fibre-optic networks and enable data to be transmitted via optical fibre cables. Compared to SFP and SFP+ modules, XFP has a larger form factor but also supports hot-swap operation. This means that a module can be replaced whilst the system is running without having to shut it down. XFP transceivers operate at different wavelengths and ranges depending on the application. Variants for 850, 1310 or 1550 nanometres are frequently used. The use of LC connectors enables high port densities to be achieved in switches, routers and network devices. Although XFP is increasingly being replaced today by more compact standards such as SFP+, the technology continues to be used in existing network and telecommunications infrastructures.