A GBIC, or Gigabit Interface Converter, is a type of transceiver used in networking. It allows for the connection of different types of network cables and devices, enabling data transmission at speeds of up to 1 Gbps. GBICs are commonly used in fiber optic and copper networks, providing flexibility in network design. GBICs are hot-swappable, meaning they can be replaced without shutting down the system. They come in various types to support different network protocols and cable types, making them versatile components in data centers and enterprise networks. Their design has largely been succeeded by smaller form factors like SFP (Small Form-factor Pluggable) modules.