What is the main characteristic of Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP) cables?

Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP) cables are primarily recognized for their cost-effectiveness in installation. This type of cable features a simple design that does not require the additional materials or complexity associated with shielded cables. The reduction in materials not only leads to lower production costs but also simplifies the installation process, making it quicker and easier for technicians to work with.

While UTP cables do utilize insulated conductors and are relatively resistant to certain levels of electromagnetic interference due to their twisted pair arrangement, these aspects do not define their primary characteristic. The absence of shielding mechanisms, found in other types of cables like shielded twisted pairs, further reinforces their cost-effectiveness, as implementing shielding would increase both complexity and expense. Thus, the primary advantage of UTP cables lies in their affordability and simplicity in installation, making them a popular choice for many networking applications.