Fiber optic joints or terminations - where cables are terminated - are made two ways: 1) connectors that mate two fibers to create a temporary joint and/or connect the fiber to a piece of network gear (left) or 2) splices which create a permanent joint between the two fibers (right). Either termination method must have two primary characteristics: good optical performance (low loss and minimal reflectance) and high mechanical strength. Terminations must also be of the right style to be compatible to the equipment involved and be protected against the environment in which they are installed.