Another expansion on the original SFP concept, QSFP uses double fiber pairs. The Q stands for “quad,” and the additional pair allows for substantially more powerful data transmission. QSFP connectors are still small and hot-pluggable, and they still support Ethernet and fiber optics. Added to the supported list is InfiniBand.

QSFP data rates get up to 1 Gbps per channel, allowing for 4X1 G cables and stackable networking designs that achieve better throughput.

How Do You Choose Between SFP, SFP+, QSFP and QSFP+?

Selecting the right connector is essential to building a network that functions correctly at an efficient price point. While it won’t always be easy to make the decision, there are a few considerations that can completely dictate what you use.

How Much Traffic Does Your Network Handle?As you just read, the capacity of each form factor is pretty different. If you’re running a high-end data center, you’ll probably need QSFP+ and possibly even QSFP28. For lower demands, the other forms might suffice.

It’s also important to anticipate traffic growth. It might feel good to save money and go with lower capacity now, but if you’re going to have to make major replacements in two years, then there is no real saving taking place. Weighing the value of future-proof networking equipment is always one of the hardest parts of design.

How Long Is Your Network?SFP and all of its variants work with both single and multi-mode fiber. So, the physical length of your network might determine which of the modes you’ll be utilizing. Then again, if all of the form factors support both modes, why does it matter?

It comes down to cost. If you have to invest in the higher cost of single-mode fiber, it might be prudent to downscale the connector. Conversely, a shorter, multi-mode network might leave room in the budget for future proofing and bigger data capacity.

Choose an MSA Compatible SFP or Not?

Compatibility is often the most important parameter users care about when buying an MSA SFP module. MSA (multi-source agreement) is an agreement supported by a number of manufacturers who came together to collaborate and standardize the fit-form and try to provide a reliable mean of mixing and matching SFP brands successfully. Third-party companies also have developed their own tools to program SFP modules to be compatible with the OEM. So, the MSA compatibility Gigabit SFP module can be used successfully in most networks.

SFP vs. SFP+

Here is a table of comparison between SFP and SFP+