What is the main characteristic of a crossover Ethernet cable?

The main characteristic of a crossover Ethernet cable is that the wires are reversed on each end. This specific wiring configuration allows for the direct connection of similar devices, such as connecting two computers or two switches without the use of additional networking equipment like a hub or a switch. In a crossover cable, the transmit and receive pairs of wires are swapped. For example, the transmit pin of one end connects to the receive pin of the other, enabling effective data transmission between the similar devices.

In contrast, a straight-through cable has the same wiring at both ends, which is typically used for connecting different types of devices, such as a computer to a switch. The crossover configuration specifically meets the need for direct device-to-device communication, showcasing its utility in certain networking scenarios.