What is a material that reduces strain in a cable before crimping both ends of a patch cable?

The correct answer is the boot. A boot is a protective covering that is placed over the ends of cables, particularly patch cables, to prevent strain on the connector and the cable itself. This is critical because excessive strain can lead to damage, compromising the integrity and performance of the cable connections. The boot helps absorb and distribute any tension that might occur when the cable is bent or pulled, ensuring longevity and reliability in the connection.

In contrast, shielding refers to a layer that protects the cable from electromagnetic interference, insulation serves to prevent electrical current from escaping the conductor and protects against short circuits, and a connector is the component that joins the cable to another device or cable. While these components are essential in their respective roles, they do not provide the strain relief function that a boot specifically offers.