Which type of fiber optic cable installation is generally more prone to environmental damage?

Outdoor installations of fiber optic cables are generally more prone to environmental damage due to their exposure to various external factors. Unlike indoor installations, which are safeguarded from harsh weather conditions, outdoor cables must withstand elements such as moisture, UV radiation, temperature fluctuations, and physical impact from animals or vegetation. The outdoor environment can introduce risks like water infiltration, which may lead to fiber optic attenuation or breakage, and ultraviolet damage from sunlight that can degrade the cable's protective jacket over time.

In contrast, other choices like indoor installations, installations in controlled environments, and underground installations tend to experience less environmental stress, as they are shielded from direct weather influences. For example, underground installations may still face issues such as water ingress and soil movement but are typically less vulnerable to immediate external conditions compared to those mounted on poles or running along busy streets in outdoor settings.