Why cat6 over cat5

However, its 10 Gbps speed is effective only up to feet. Despite this limitation, Cat 6 cabling is more qualified to handle the fast pace of Gigabit Ethernet networks. Cat 6a supports the same 10 Gbps transmission speed as Cat 6, but up to feet and at MHz. And, of course, with even less crosstalk than Cat 6. In a speed test, Cat 6 wins every time. If you expect your cable installation to remain unchanged for a few years, you may decide that future-proofing your network with Cat 6 or Cat 6a cabling is a safer bet.

It should be noted that network transmission speed depends on all the components being able to operate on the higher speed. The transmission speed rating for each standard is theoretical. For high-speed switch to switch communications in a 25G or 40G network, Cat 8 is an appropriate choice. For all other situations, Cat 6 or Cat 6a cables will be plenty fast enough.

They cost less and are easier to install. Category 5 cables were introduced in while Category6 cables were brought about in Cat5 cables are becoming increasingly more outdated as faster internet speeds take over, yet they are still commonly found being used. The solution could be as simple as updating your ethernet cable! Cat5 and Cat6 cables are pretty similar when it comes to composition, however, Cat6 cables are undeniably superior when it comes to their functionality.

These separators are typically made of plastic for this Category. Crosstalk is defined as the undesired transfer of signals between communication channels. Silencing these cross-contaminating signals is just one of the reasons why Cat6 cables are the optimal choice when compared to Cat5 cabling.

It is also why you will see just a slightly steeper price range when it comes to shopping around for Cat6 ethernet cables. Higher production costs result in higher prices. Later ethernet cable versions contain internal separators composed of foil or other thicker materials. The speed and compatibility of Cat6 cables are far greater than any of its ethernet cable predecessors. Cat6 cabling is capable of reaching speeds up to 10 GB gigabyte while Cat5 speeds can range from 10 Mbps megabits per second to Mbps.

Although most would say that a Cat5e cable is adequate enough for most basic needs, it is becoming increasingly more outdated as the demand for faster internet speeds continue to rise. Yet, Cat5e cables are the most commonly purchased network cable currently. They have a lower production cost than many later versions and still supports faster speeds than Cat5. Do you plan on running a hefty array of devices on your network?

What about streaming shows or downloading your new favorite album while you Google something on your mobile device at the same time? Cat6 cables are going to be the more suitable option for you rather than a Category 5. They are the more appropriate choice for video streaming and multitasking because they are capable of handling the faster download speeds and heavier data load that is required for such tasks.

Longer ethernet cables are usually going to have slower transmission speeds compared to shorter cables and may have more interference as well. Cablesys offers the best selling cables. CAT5e is more than capable of supporting the required bandwidth for all of them. In fact, CAT5e is likely to support speeds faster than what the internet connection can provide.

In commercial applications, there is a high demand for fast internet speeds, as well as internal speeds. CAT6 will quickly transfer large amounts of data and better service the bandwidth requirements. See our FAQ or contact us. Accepted Credit Cards. Most new, unopened items may be returned within 30 days. Sign in Create an account. Differences There are many differences between CAT5 and CAT6 cables; such as performance, type of cable, type of jacket and cost, among others.