How do I Know Which Type of Ethernet Cable Is Required?

by Becky Steele, Demand Media

Category 5, 5e and 6 Ethernet cables are used in most broadband networks.

Hemera Technologies/AbleStock.com/Getty Images

Most modern Ethernet wiring is unshielded twisted pair (UTP) cabling, classified into one of several category types based on several factors. Many consumers have heard of Cat 5, 5e and 6, which are used with high-speed broadband service. The plugs resemble jumbo versions of telephone wire plugs. The basic difference between the category types are throughput, or the amount of traffic that can flow through the wires at a given time, the maximum speed data can travel through the wires, and the level of susceptibility to interference.

Step 1

Consider what type of internet service you have. For dial-up, the only type of cable required is ordinary telephone cabling. With DSL, you'll need a telephone cable running from your phone jack to your DSL modem, and then Cat 5 or greater cabling running from the modem out to your computer, or any switches or routers. Cable broadband service requires different cables.

Step 2

Consider the speed of your service. When you purchase service, the ISP gives you a choice of speeds, with different prices attached to them. Unless your service offers gigabit (equal to 1,024 megabits per second, or Mbps) speeds, you need only Cat 5 or 5e cabling. A more expensive cable, Cat 6 is certified for gigabit-speed service. If your service is gigabit-speed, you must use cat 5e or better cabling throughout your network or your speed will be limited to 100 Mbps.

Step 3

Consider how much Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) exists in your home. Common sources include radios, cell phones, nearby power lines and wireless Internet signals. If your home environment is prone to electromagnetic interference, you may want to consider spending the additional money on Cat 6 cabling. This cable type offers greater protection from EMI.

Tips & Warnings

  • An Ethernet cable's category number is printed on its jacket.
  • For best performance, purchase the shortest cables necessary for your needs, and be careful not to run it where it can be stepped on or rolled over with a chair. Damage to the wires inside will result in degraded speed and performance.
  • A UTP Ethernet cable must not exceed 100 meters unless you connect it a repeater, switch, bridge or router.

Find Tech Support deals in your area:

privacy & security protected

References

  • Cisco Systems: Ethernet 100BaseTX . . . Guidelines and Specifications
  • Cisco Systems: 1000BASE-T Delivering Gigabit Intelligence

About the Author

A writer and proofreader since 2006, Becky Steele also works as an information-technology analyst, specializing in consumer and business user tech support. Graduating from Roger Williams University with a B.A. in English and a minor in journalism, Steele is also a Microsoft certified professional and a Microsoft certified desktop support technician.

Photo Credits

  • Hemera Technologies/AbleStock.com/Getty Images