MPO (Multi-fiber Push-On) is a connector that bundles 12, 24 or more fibers in a single ferrule; MTP is a premium MPO variant (better mechanical performance, same compatibility). It is the go-to connectivity for high speeds in the data center.
Two uses drive its value: pre-terminated cabling (factory-made cassettes and trunks deployed in minutes, no on-site splicing) and breakout — a 100G port (QSFP28) split into 4×25G, or 40G into 4×10G, to connect several servers to one switch port. Polarity (methods A/B/C) and connector gender are the classic pitfalls: settle them before ordering.
MPO runs on OM4 (short reach) or OS2 (long reach) fiber and terminates in a patch panel.