Active vs. Passive Network Racks: What Is the Difference?
In structured cabling, racks and cabinets are responsible for organizing and protecting network equipment and cabling. Although they may look similar physically, they are categorized into two types based on their function: Active Racks and Passive Racks.
Each has a specific role within the infrastructure.
1. Active Rack: The rack for “active” network equipment
The Active Rack is dedicated to devices that require electricity to function and that process, distribute, or manage network traffic.
✔ Examples of Active Equipment:
- Switches
- Routers
- Firewalls
- Servers
- UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply)
- ISP Equipment (OLTs, Enterprise ONTs, Radios, etc.)
✔ Characteristics of the Active Rack:
- Requires internal power outlets or PDUs (Power Distribution Units).
- Needs ventilation (cooling fans, exhaust fans, or perforated doors) due to heat generation.
- Usually located in the MDF (Main Distribution Frame) or Server Room.
- May require strict temperature control depending on the load.
✔ Main Function:
To distribute, process, and manage network traffic.
2. Passive Rack: The rack for non-powered elements
The Passive Rack houses components that do not consume electricity. These components are strictly for organizing, connecting, and terminating cabling.
✔ Examples of Passive Components:
- Patch Panels
- Cable Managers (Horizontal/Vertical)
- Fiber Enclosures (Fiber Patch Panels)
- Punch-down Blocks (110/66 blocks)
- Shelves and Accessories
- Cable Terminators
✔ Characteristics of the Passive Rack:
- Does not require special ventilation (since there is no heat generation).
- Used primarily for cable management and distribution (cross-connects).
- Often located near end-users (IDFs, hallways, telecom closets).
- Generally simpler and cheaper than active/server cabinets.
✔ Main Function:
To organize, terminate, and distribute physical cabling.
Summary: Active vs. Passive Rack
| Feature | Active Rack | Passive Rack |
| Consumes Power | Yes | No |
| Equipment | Switch, Router, Firewall, Server, UPS | Patch Panel, Fiber Enclosure, Cable Managers |
| Function | Process and distribute traffic | Organize and terminate cables |
| Ventilation | Required (Cooling/Airflow) | Optional |
| Common Location | MDF / Main Telecom Room | IDF / Smaller Closets |
| Cost | Higher | Lower |
Key Takeaway
- Active Rack: Holds equipment that “works” on the network and needs power (electricity).
Passive Rack: Only holds the cabling, terminations, and organization hardware.
