Which type of cable is often used to directly connect a computer to a router or switch for management purposes?

The roll-over cable, also known as a console cable, is typically used to connect a computer directly to the console port of a router or switch for management purposes. This type of cable usually has a serial connection and is designed for configuring networking devices like routers and switches, allowing administrators to access and manage these devices through a terminal emulation program.

In most networking environments, the roll-over cable connects to the router or switch's console port and the other end connects to a serial port on the computer. This is particularly useful for initial device configuration or troubleshooting when management over IP is not yet established.

In contrast, other types of cables have different applications. For instance, Ethernet cables are standard in networking to connect devices like computers, routers, and switches, but they do not serve for direct console access. Crossover cables allow direct connections between like devices, such as two computers or two switches, which is an entirely different use case. Finally, fiber optic cables are used for high-speed data transmission over longer distances and are not typically associated with console management connections.