That is partially true.wkearney99 said:
Ethernet can be extended, the only requirement is additional hardware (extenders/repeaters) and if the cabling needs to meet a different spec. Fiber isn't going to be cheaper than copper....not even close. That run is going to be about $1K in fiber, then the price for a patch panel and patches, then either the switches need to support fiber or transceivers would need to be installed, which are going to run about $100+ per side. Whether or not it's attractive to create another network node at the cost vs. a surge suppressed copper link, extended, would need to be considered. Corrosion on a well installed copper burial cable is truly a moot point. Assuming conduit, the cable could be replaced at least 5 times before the ROI is realized.
Not saying fiber isn't a good solution, but compared to copper, it's going to be a ton more expensive, and when you consider that you should really install an armored fiber, the main difference is a surge or strike shouldn't pass through to the equipment, assuming the armor is grounded when it enters the building.
Keep in mind, the conduit for fiber needs to be installed differently and the pulls should be straight and not experience anything other than a gradual sweep and no offsets. That's typically around 40% more in installation costs and about 50% in labor compared to an armored fiber cable. Same goes with pulling in dark fibers in the assembly and the related expected lifespan of the fiber, which is factored at 20~25 years.
