An ethernet cable is vital for connecting you to the internet. How else are you to stream your favourite videos or play the latest online game? But which ethernet cable is right for you?
As the PC experts we’ve compiled everything you need to know about ethernet cables into this blog article, covering the basics of what one is, why you need one, and the different types of cables.
What is an Ethernet Cable?
An ethernet, or network, cable is responsible for carrying broadband signals between your modem, router, and device. Compatible with ethernet ports, these cables allow your devices to connect to the internet via your local area network (LAN). For example, with an ethernet port you can connect your computer to your Wi-Fi router.
What’s more, ethernet cables can also be used to create a network of local devices, delivering you fast transfer rates with no wireless limitations.
You can find ethernet cables in a variety of different lengths, starting from 0.3 metres all the way up to 30 metres or more. Plus, with some variants, you can also cut them to your desired length to reduce the amount of cable clutter around your set up.
Ethernet Cable Shielding
Shielding is required to protect the internal twisted wires. This helps to increase the lifespan of the ethernet cable, along with preventing crosstalk to ensure a stable and reliable connection.
There are different codes to describe the type of shielding your ethernet cable has.
- U/UTP – unshielded cable and twisted wires.
- F/UTP – foil shielded cable and unshielded twisted wires.
- U/FTP – unshielded cable and foil shielded twisted wires.
- S/FTP – braided shielded cable and foil shielded twisted wires.
Different Types of Ethernet Cable
There are different categories, or cat, of ethernet cable. Each category boasts a different set of standards. Our below highlights the differences between each cat, including max speed and bandwidth.
| Max Speed | Max Bandwidth | Max Cable Length | Shielded or Unshielded | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cat 5 | 100Mbps | 100MHz | 100m | Unshielded |
| Cat 5e | 1000Mbps | 100Hz | 100m | Unshielded |
| Cat 6 | 1000Mbps | 250Hz | 100m | Shielded or Unshielded |
| Cat 6a | 10Gbps | 250Hz | 100m | Shielded |
| Cat 7 | 10Gbps | 600Hz | 100m | Shielded |
| Cat 7a | 10Gbps | 1000Hz | 100m | Shielded |
| Cat 8 | 25 or 40Gbps | 2000Hz | 30m | Shielded |
Which Type of Ethernet Cable Do You Need?
When it comes to selecting the right ethernet cable for your set up, you’ll want to choose the one with the perfect range and performance that suit your needs.
We suggest that you should start with checking the speed of your internet connection, which you can do with free online speed tests. If your internet is faster than 1Gbps, a Cat 6a or higher ethernet cable, is the right choice. Olders cables won’t supply you with enough power to reach those speeds. However, if the speed is slower, such as 20Mbps, Cat 5 or even 5e is more than enough.
In addition to the speed of your internet connection, we also recommend that you consider what you’ll actually be using the internet for. Those who are online gaming or live streaming, can benefit a lot from a wired connectivity. Having an ethernet cable will ensure you get the very best connection and speeds for your high bandwidth streaming or gaming. In this case, Cat 6 or above will deliver everything you need, even at long distances.
Alternatively, if you are only using your home internet for light browsing or work, you might not even need an ethernet cable as these things don’t require a lot of bandwidth. However, if you are still struggling with poor connection throughout your home, there are alternative options for this very thing, such as powerline adapters.
Don’t know what a powerline adapter is? We have a blog on that very topic, highlighting how they can help to improve the Wi-Fi connectivity around your home.
Boost Your Connectivity
Tired of slow, poor performing Wi-Fi limiting your gaming performance? Those never-ending loading circles making your head spin? Then it’s time to give your home network a much-needed upgrade!
At Overclockers UK, you can find everything you need, from ethernet cables to high-powered routers, to ensure you can get back to browsing the web and streaming the latest videos.
OcUK Cat6 2m Ethernet Cable
- Cat 6 cable
- Up to 250Hz
- UTP
- 2 metres long
TP-Link Archer AX20 Wi-Fi 6 Dual Band Router
- Dual-band Wi-Fi router
- Wi-Fi 6
- Up to 1.8Gbps
- Easy to set up
- 4 min read
Ruth Rowley
Author
Ruth has been with Overclockers UK for over a year and has gone on to write about everything ranging from in-depth hardware guides to monthly game releases.
Outside of writing blog posts, she can be found wrapped in a blanket with her black cat, engrossed in a book or playing life-simulation games such as The Sims, Stardew Valley, and Animal Crossing.
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