What type of copper cabling is commonly used in telephone wiring and LANs without individual wrappings around each wire?

Unshielded twisted pair (UTP) cabling is the standard choice for both telephone wiring and local area networks (LANs). This type of cable consists of four pairs of wires that are twisted together to minimize electromagnetic interference from external sources and crosstalk between the pairs, which is essential for maintaining signal integrity in communication systems.

The absence of individual insulating wrappings around each wire in UTP contributes to its flexibility and ease of installation, making it a popular option for both residential and commercial applications. This design helps keep the cable lightweight and cost-effective, which is important when deploying extensive wiring systems.

In general, telephone systems have historically adopted UTP for its advantages, and its widespread use in data networking has further solidified its position as a key component in modern connectivity.