Network cables

Frequently asked questions

Cat 5e, Cat 6 or Cat 6a?

Cat 5e carries 1 Gb/s over 100 m and is enough for a home. Cat 6 resists interference better and gives 10 Gb/s over short runs up to 55 m; Cat 6a gives 10 Gb/s over the full 100 m. For new wiring we recommend Cat 6 or 6a; a patch cable to a computer is fine in Cat 5e or 6.

Shielded (FTP) or unshielded (UTP)?

Unshielded UTP is enough wherever the cable does not run alongside power lines and fluorescent lights. Choose shielded FTP or S/FTP for workshops, server rooms and runs of many metres next to electrical wiring. Shielding only works when the connectors and sockets are shielded too and the whole run is earthed.

What is the difference between a patch cable and installation cable?

A patch cable has stranded conductors, is flexible and comes ready-made with connectors; it links a device to a socket or switch. Installation cable has solid conductors, runs inside walls or trunking and terminates in a socket or patch panel, not in an RJ45 plug. Installation cable is in the Passive components section.

How long can the cable be?

Ethernet works reliably up to 100 m total, including the patch cables at both ends. Short 0.5 to 3 m cables suit a rack or a desk, 10 to 30 m runs across a flat. For longer routes to a workshop or another building, choose UV-resistant outdoor cable or a fibre link.