9 Best Ethernet Network Cables

It doesn't always have to be WiFi. Even if wireless transmission technology becomes the standard today, every professional network needs the appropriate patch cord. Anyone who values ​​the most stable, fast, and trouble-free connection between a router and an end device prefers data transmission over cables - for computer games, for example, or professional exchange of large amounts of data. For this purpose, the best network cables also known as Ethernet or LAN cables, must be laid and connected. And that's right, because an Ethernet cable with the wrong specifications can easily become a bottleneck in fast data transmission.

Since there are many different Ethernet cables, some of which have very different properties, the following comparison presents the 9 best network cables in detail and goes into more detail about their respective specifications. The following guides cover in detail the topic of network cables and explain the connections, terms, and what to consider when purchasing a network cable.

The 9 best powerful network cables in a big comparison

1. CSL-Computer network cable A23334x2

• RJ45 . connector type
• Ethernet cable type
• Compatible router devices, modems

The CSL-Computer A23334x2 network cable is a Cat 6 Ethernet cable with a bandwidth of 250 megahertz (MHz). With data transmission speeds of up to 1,000 megabits per second (MBit/s), it is perfect for use in gigabit networks.

According to the manufacturer, the cable has halogen-free insulation, but PVC is specified elsewhere as the sheathing material. Halogen-free insulation is relevant in case of fire. PVC contains halogenated chlorine and releases hydrogen chloride when exposed to heat. If hydrogen chloride comes into contact with water – which is usually the case in fires – harmful hydrochloric acid will be formed. This risk does not exist with halogen-free plastics. They also produce less smoke in the event of a fire.

The A23334x2 network cable from CSL-Computer has a round cross section, is 5 meters long and is equipped with transparent red RJ45 connectors at both ends and is therefore immediately ready for use. The plug has a snap-in protection and between the plug and the cable the kink shield must prevent the cable from breaking. Gold plated contacts to protect the copper wires inside the wires from corrosion. The manufacturer specifies a UTP shield, which is a bit confusing because the designation indicates an unprotected cable. UTP stands for "Unshielded Twisted Pair", which is for unshielded twisted pair cable.

The CSL-Computer A23334x2 network cable is available in various lengths between 0.25 and 30 meters. Short versions with cable lengths of up to 0.5 meters are available as multiple packages.

Advantages

•     Hook protection and kink protection available
•     Halogen free insulation (highly flame retardant)
•     RoHS compliant (Quality Certificate)
•     Available in many lengths
•     Gold plated contacts (corrosion protection)

Deficiency

•     UTP shield only
•     Only available in black or white

2. AmazonBasics jaringan network cable

• RJ45 . connector type
• Personal Computer compatible devices
• Specifications meet certified frustration free

With a bandwidth of 250 megahertz and data rates of up to 1,000 megabits per second (MBit/s), Amazon Basics network cables fall into cable category 6 of the network cabling performance class. This makes it suitable for fast wired connections of network-enabled devices on a LAN.

What is meant by "category" in the context of network cabling? Network cables are divided into different categories depending on the bandwidth and transmission speed. The various performance classes are designated Cat 1 through Cat 8, with lower numbers indicating lower bandwidth and slower data transmission. In our guide, we explain the specifications of each category in detail.

The 3 meter long black cable is equipped with a transparent RJ45 connector. A kink protection is available, as well as a locking nose guard. According to the manufacturer, if you have to remove the cable from the port more often, you don't have to worry about breaking the lock lug. The inside of the patch cord is protected by a strong PVC cable jacket. AmazonBasics HL network cables are available in a variety of lengths from 3 to 50 feet.

One cable is usually not enough to create a home network. If you need more Ethernet cables, buy a bundle of five or 24.

Advantages

• Remove RJ45 . connector
• With kink protection and hook protection
• Available in different lengths
• Gold plated contacts (corrosion protection)
• With category imprint on cable

Deficiency

• No information about shield
• Only one color available (Black)

3. CableDirect 623 . network cable

• RJ45 . connector type
• Ethernet cable type
• Compatible devices All devices with an RJ45 connector, for example: routers, modems, splitters, TVs, notebooks, PCs, network cards, Macs, PoE devices, printers, patch panels, switches, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Xbox One, PS4 , PS5 & other game consoles, hubs, motherboards

The CableDirect 623 network cable is 20 meters long and is suitable for bridging long distances in wired networks. Unfortunately, the cable is not shielded despite the impressive cable length. After all, the manufacturer specifies UTP for shielding, which stands for "Unshielded Twisted Pair" and designates unshielded twisted pair cable.

How important is the shield? If other cables of any kind are in close proximity to the network cable, they can cause interfering transmission and the quality of the transmission may deteriorate. Unshielded cables should not exceed 10 meters to limit loss of quality during transmission.

Cable 623 from KabelDirekt belongs to the Cat 6 category. Bandwidth is defined as 250 megahertz, maximum transmission speed of 1,000 megabits per second. Therefore, this cable is suitable for use in gigabit networks. The RJ45 connector on this model is blue and transparent. The same cable is available alternatively with a silver and non-transparent western plug.

Various lengths from 0.5 to 30 meters can be ordered. If you need more than one cable, choose one of several plans with five to ten LAN cables of the same length. According to the manufacturer, the cable can be connected to PoE devices and supply power through a network center – such as a router. This feature is handy when there are not enough sockets near the end device.

Advantages

• Available as single model, pack of five or pack of ten
• PoE ready
• Long factory warranty (36 months instead of 24 months)
• With kink protection and hook protection

Deficiency

• Unprotected (UTP)
• Relatively low bandwidth (250 megahertz)
• Only available in two colors

4. HB Digital network cable

• RJ45 . connector type
• Ethernet cable type
• Compatible device patch fields, patch panels, RJ45 LSA network connectors, network sockets, servers, routers

HB Digital network cable is an installation cable, because the cable length is 50 meters, it is very suitable for installing network architecture in new buildings. Other lengths up to 500 meters are possible. You can choose between yellow and orange. If you want, you can attach the cable to the reel for better handling when laying it.

As an installation version, the network cable from HB Digital does not have a plug, which you have to plug in yourself before starting to use it. Since the LAN cable is classified as Cat 7, it is recommended to use the GG45 connector. However, the manufacturer indicates that the installation cable only connects to a dedicated RJ45 connector. Unfortunately, there is no further information as to which plug in question is.

Cat 7 cable has a bandwidth of 600 megahertz and a throughput rate of up to 10,000 megabits per second. With commonly used RJ45 connectors, the contacts are too narrow for high bandwidth. Network cables cannot achieve high operating frequencies with this connector. The guide that follows the product presentation explains in more detail about plug connection issues.

The LAN cable enables Power over Ethernet, so connected devices can be supplied with power through the router and do not require their own power source. This is a twisted pair cable, so eight pairs of wires are twisted in pairs.

As an S/FTP cable, the HB Digital network cable has good protection. The steel-copper core is wrapped in pairs with aluminum foil. In addition, a tinned copper braid is used for the overall protection.

Advantages

• Extremely long patch cord (up to 1000 meters)
• High bandwidth (600 megahertz)
• High throughput rate (10,000 megabits per second)
• Enabling Power over Ethernet

Deficiency

• Only two colors available
• No kink protection, no hook protection

5. Computer CSL 722303609722 Network cable

• RJ45 . connector type
• Ethernet cable type
• Compatible devices laptops, game consoles, printers, TVs, routers, personal computers, modems

The CSL 722303609722 computer network cable is a 5 meter long patch cord equipped with two RJ45 connectors at the ends. According to the manufacturer, behind the silver plug with snap-in protection, a kink protection sleeve protects against cable damage during sensitive transitions from cable to plug. As a Cat 7 cable, the network cable from CSL-Computer has a bandwidth of 600 megahertz and allows data transmission at speeds up to 10,000 megabits per second.

The manufacturer specifies the S/FTP shield for the Ethernet cable. Therefore, the twisted pairs of wires are foil protected in pairs, and the wire mesh serves as the overall cable protection. The inner conductor is made of OFC copper.

What is OFC copper? OFC is the material designation and stands for "Oxygen Free Copper", which means pure copper with a purity of 99.99 percent. There are also so-called CCA leaders. CCA stands for "Copper-clad Aluminum", which can be translated as "copper-clad aluminum". It is an aluminum cable which is only coated with copper as a conductor material. OFC conductors are of higher quality than CCA, but CCA conductors are much cheaper.

Gold plated contacts to prevent corrosion. According to the manufacturer, gold plating ensures a permanently good contact and thus low transmission resistance. Halogen free insulation.

The network cable from CSL-Computer is also protected by a cloth sheath. The textile braid not only offers added protection against abrasion. Textile coated cables are also characterized by a high degree of flexibility.

Advantages

• Gold plated contacts (corrosion protection)
• Protection through additional fabric layers
• Anti-buckling arm and hook protection
• High data transfer rate (10,000 megabits per second)
• High bandwidth (600 megahertz)

Deficiency

•     Only two colors available

6. 1aTTack 89693 network cable

• Connector type Ethernet, male to male, RJ45
• Ethernet cable type
• Laptop compatible device, server, TV, router, any device with RJ45 . connector

The 1aTTack 89693 network cable is a Cat 6 patch cord - five wires to be precise, because LAN cables are packaged in five packages. It is designed for a bandwidth of 250 megahertz (MHz). Data streams of up to 10,000 gigabits per second (Gbit/s) are possible, making this cable suitable for use in gigabit networks.

What is a gigabit network? If transmission speeds of up to 1,000 megabits per second (Mbit/s) are possible in a network, it is a gigabit network. The slower variant is called Fast Ethernet LAN. The maximum transmission speed of 100 megabits per second (MBit/s) is only achieved here.

The shield is specified by the manufacturer as S/FTP, which denotes the overall shielding of the wire mesh and the coupled shielding of the stripe with the foil. The contacts of the RJ45 plug are gold plated so that, according to the manufacturer, corrosion cannot slow down the transmission. The 89693 network cable from 1aTTack has built-in kink protection. The plug is equipped with a locking lug guard, but not a cover, the locking lugs are somewhat protected by a height on the side. The cable that we present has a length of one meter. There are many different length options. Versions from 0.25 meters to 50 meters are possible. If you don't need five cables, you can order the LAN cables individually.

Manufacturers offer their cords in many colors. A total of ten colors are available, including bright versions such as magenta or green. Different cable colors for different end devices make network setup easy.

Advantages

• Rig protection and hook protection available
• Available in various lengths and colors
• Supplied in packs of five, two or as a single model
• High data transfer rate (10,000 megabits per second)
• RJ45 connector with gold plated contacts (corrosion protection)

Deficiency

• Relatively low bandwidth (250 megahertz)

7. UGREEN 11260 . network cable

• RJ45 . connector type
• Compatible devices laptop, TV, router, personal computer, modem
• 10 Gigabit Per Second data transfer rate
• Frequency 600MHz

The UGREEN 11260 network cable presented here is one meter long, but is also available in lengths up to 20 meters. This Ethernet cable is a Cat 7 cable according to the so-called 10Base-T standard.

What is the 10Base-T standard? 10Base-T is the official abbreviation for the transmission standard. The figure shows the transmission speed. In this case, "10" means a transmission speed of 10 gigabits per second (Gbit/s). "Base" refers to baseband signaling Ethernet and "T" stands for twisted pair. For example, the designation 100Base-T would indicate a data rate of 100 gigabits per second, which is the Fast Ethernet standard.

As a Category 7 Ethernet cable, the UGREEN 11260 network cable has a data rate of up to 10,000 megabits per second and a bandwidth of 600 megahertz. Individual wire pairs are protected with aluminum foil. According to the manufacturer, there is an additional overall screen. Rig protection and hook protection available.

The UGREEN 11260 network cable is a ribbon cable. Laying under a door or carpet is easier to implement than with a round cord. In addition, ribbon cables are much more flexible and can be guided into corners more easily.

Advantages

• Ribbon cable (ideal for routing cables under carpet)
• Cat 7 cable complies with the 10Base-T . standard
• High data transfer rate (10,000 megabits per second)
• High bandwidth (600 megahertz)
• With kink and hook protection

Deficiency

• Does not support PoE
• Only available in black

8.CSL-Computer B07GC1J9QM network cable

• RJ45 . connector type
• Ethernet cable type
• Compatible devices laptops, game consoles, printers, servers, switches, HiFi receivers, personal computers, modems

CSL-Computer B07GC1J9QM network cable is a ribbon cable. This type of network cable is perfect if the cable will be routed under a door or carpet. Ribbon cables are also characterized by high flexibility. Cat 7 cable transmits data at speeds up to 10,000 megabits per second, bandwidth 600 megahertz (MHz).

What does bandwidth say? Bandwidth is an indication of the operating frequency at which the cable operates and carries data. Bandwidth results from the difference between the highest and lowest of these operating frequencies. The physical unit for bandwidth is the Hertz. High bandwidth enables high data throughput. In the following guide to the product presentation, the term bandwidth and other technical terms and abbreviations that occur frequently in relation to networking are explained.

The B07GC1J9QM network cable from CSL-Computer is equipped with RJ45 connectors on both ends. According to the manufacturer, the molded anti-bending sleeve protects against tangling during the transition from cable to plug. Plugs are equipped with hook protection.

Ribbon cables are available in various lengths. Short distances can be covered with 0.25, 0.5 or one meter long cables. If there is greater distance between the source and target devices, a network cable up to 30 meters in length fulfills its purpose. Each length is available in black and white.

Advantages

• Ribbon cable (ideal for routing cables under carpet)
• High data transfer rate (10,000 megabits per second)
• High bandwidth (600 megahertz)
• Available in twelve lengths
• U/FTP Shield

Deficiency

• Only two colors to choose
• No IP certification - only conditionally suitable for outdoor use

9. deleyCON MK1986 . network cable

• RJ45 . connector type
• Ethernet cable type
• Compatible devices laptop, printer, TV, router, personal computer, modem

The deleyCON MK1986 network cable is a Cat 6 patch cable. The maximum transmission speed is 1,000 megabits per second with a bandwidth of 250 megahertz. The RJ45 plug is silver, the tip is transparent red so the contacts are visible. The connector has a latch guard in the form of two protrusions on the side of the connector. A kink protection is also available.

How important is kink protection? Thin copper conductors are protected in standard wires, as well as in plugs. The transition between the cord and the plug is a difficult place, as thin wires can easily break here. The result is a loose connection - i.e. no stable network connection - or a pair of wires for data transmission will fail miserably. Kink protection prevents damage caused by stress at the transition point.

the deleyCON MK1986 network cable has an S/FTP shield. The wire pairs are foil coated, the wire mesh forms an overall shield. If you want to see which end device is connected to which port based on the color of the cable, you will benefit from a large selection of colors. Cables are available in ten colors and in 14 lengths between 0.25 and 50 meters from the network socket to the end device.

LSZH material grade: The cable jacket of deleyCON MK1986 network cable meets LSZH material class. This abbreviation stands for "Low Smoke Zero Halogen". The material is halogen free and produces little smoke when exposed to high temperatures or fire. Other abbreviations for the same class of materials are LSOH, LSOH, LSHF or LSNH.

Advantages

• Available in ten colors and 14 lengths
• With kink protection and hook protection
• Material grade LSZH (halogen free)
• S/FTP Shield
• Gold plated contacts (corrosion protection)

Deficiency

• Relatively low bandwidth (250 megahertz)

What is a network cable?

Network cables are cables used to connect different devices, such as computers and routers. Cables are used for data transmission between connected devices. Network cables are needed to build a wired network. Another name for network cable is Ethernet cable. LAN cables have also become commonplace in everyday language.

Network cable structure

Network cables contain several pairs of copper wires, called conductors. The nuclei are isolated individually and combined in pairs. As a rule, the pairs of wires are twisted - most network cables are called twisted-pair cables. All wire pairs are in a plastic sheath, i.e. the cable sheath. At each end of the cable there is a connector to which pairs of wires are connected. In addition to cable pairs, there are also different types of shielding in network cables.

There are basically three types of shielding for network cables. The abbreviation indicates how the network cable is protected. The letters before the slash refer to the shield under the sheath, the letters after the slash provide information about the shielding of the wire pairs. Labeling follows a specific standard scheme. Consists of three letters arranged in the form XX/YZZ. The shield identification can be broken down as follows:

XX stands for the whole shield:

U = unshielded – English unshielded

F = foil shield – English foiled

S = braid shield – English screen

SF = braid and foil shield

Y stands for wire pair protector:

U = without

shield F = protective foil

S = braided shield

ZZ indicates the spin type:

TP = twisted pair

QP = quad pair

Quad pair is a designation that provides information about the type of stranding or cable braid. In twisted pair cable, two pairs of wires are twisted. In a quad-pair cable, four wires are twisted together.

For better illustration, here are some examples of protective identification:

1. U/UTP: U/UTP stands for "Unshielded/Unshielded Twisted Pair". This means that the cable does not have any shielding - neither under the jacket nor around the wire pairs.
2. S/UTP and F/UTP: S/UTP stands for "Screened Unshielded Twisted Pair". There is a wire mesh around all the pairs of wires under the cable sheath, but the individual pairs of wires are not shielded from each other. If instead of "S" there is "F" for "Foiled", this means that the shield does not consist of wire mesh, but only of foil.
3. S/FTP and S/STP: S/STP stands for "Screened Shielded Twisted Pair". In this cable, the pairs of wires are shielded from each other individually, while there is a shield under the sheath around all the pairs of wires. If there is an "S" in the designation, it is wire mesh, the "F" stands for foil.

A little knowledge of cables - different types of network cables

Patch cord

With patch cables, the cables run parallel, which is why this type of cable is also known as straight-through cable. That means the wires are connected identically on both sides. Usually twisted pair cable, the cable is twisted in pairs. If different devices such as routers, PCs or switches are to be connected in a network, patch cables are often used.

These Ethernet cables are mostly pre-assembled, the plugs are pre-installed at both ends. Patch cords come in two shapes round and flat. The flat variant is suitable if the LAN cable will be routed under a door or under a carpet.

Advantages & disadvantages of patch cords:

Installation cable

Installation cables are also known as installation cables. They are not pre-assembled, i.e. they have no plugs. Installation cables offer flexibility when choosing their length, as they are sold metered in coils. This type of cable is preferred for setting up larger network infrastructure during construction projects, as it can be routed in cable ducts.

Advantages & disadvantages of installation cables:

Cross cable

Unlike the patch cable, the cables in the crossover cable do not run parallel, the cables cross each other. The wires at the ends of the wires are different, the contacts are reversed. When connecting, it is therefore important to connect the correct end to each port. A crossover cable can be used, for example, to make a connection between two computers. Crossover cables are obsolete because ports now independently recognize whether it's an incoming or outgoing signal.

Pros & cons of crossover cables:

Cat 1 to Cat 8 - network cable category overview

A category is assigned to network cables, which are abbreviated as "Cat" and a number. The category indicates the performance class of the cable. Specific requirements criteria are specified for each class for the categorization of network cables. It is important to note that each category includes the performance parameters of the underlying class. Here is an overview of which categories are characterized by which specifications and where they can be used:

• Cat 1 . Cable

Cat 1 is designed for operating frequencies up to 100 kilohertz and is only suitable for voice transmission on telephones. Category 1 cables are not shielded.

• Cat 2 . Cable

Cat 2 has an operating frequency of up to 1.5 megahertz and was previously used for ISDN cabling. Cat 2 cable is not shielded.

• Cat 3 . Cable

Cat 3 operates at 16 megahertz (MHz). They can still be found in older LAN installations. Cables in this category are not shielded.

• Paint 4

Like Cat 3 cables, Cat 4 cables can only be found on older installations. The transmission frequency for the Cat 4 is 20 megahertz. This cable is also not shielded.

• Cat 5 . network cable

Cat 5 is designed for a transmission frequency of 100 megahertz and is the most commonly used category for home network installations. They allow transmission speeds of up to 1,000 megabits per second and are therefore suitable for both Fast and Gigabit Ethernet. Shielded and unshielded Cat 5 cables.

• Category 6 . cable

Designed for an operating frequency of 250 megahertz, subcategory Cat 6a to 500 megahertz. The maximum transmission speed of 10,000 megabits per second (Mbps) decreases with cable length, which is why Cat 6 cable length is limited to 100 meters.

• Paint 7

The transmission frequency of category 7 network cables is 600 megahertz, cables in the cat 7a subcategory are designed for 1,000 megahertz. The maximum data rate is 10,000 megabits per second. Cat 7 cable has a double shield.

• Paint 8

The newest category is Cat 8. This network cable is designed for a transmission frequency of 1,600 to 2,000 megahertz. The theoretical maximum data rate can reach 40,000 megabits per second. Cat-8 network cables are future-proof, but expensive.

Categories Cat 1 through Cat 4 are considered obsolete and may not be used anymore.

Precise standard connection – plugs and contacts

Most network cables come with an RJ45 connector, more commonly known as a western connector. RJ45 plugs are square in cross section and have eight male contacts located in eight grooves at the bottom of the plug. The wiring of the wires must be carried out according to a certain color scheme, depending on the standard.

In order to identify the network cable, the RJ45 connector is usually transparent. To ensure that the socket is securely and securely attached, the plug is equipped with a small tip at the top. This so-called locking lug snaps into place in the socket. The plug can only be removed from the socket again when the locking lug is pressed.

In addition to the widespread RJ45 connector, there is a newer variant of the connector, called the GG45 connector.

Cat 7 cable cannot demonstrate its superiority over Cat 6 cable in terms of operating frequency if it is equipped with an RJ45 connector. The contacts on the RJ45 connector are too narrow, so the high bandwidth of Cat 7 cannot be used. Therefore, it is important to use the GG45 connector when purchasing a Cat 7 cable.

At first glance, these two connector variants are very similar. A closer look at the differences: the GG45 connector has twelve contacts, which is four more than the RJ45 connector. The contacts are not only at the bottom, but also at the top of the connector. The modern GG45 connector was developed for Cat 7 network cables.

The GG45 socket is backward compatible. They can be used with RJ45 connectors. However, the GG45 plug requires a GG45 socket. They will not fit into an RJ45 jack.

Wired or wireless – connection types comparison

Basically, a network can be set up in two ways: wired or wireless. A wired connection is also called a LAN or Ethernet network. The wireless variant is known as a WiFi network. Both types of connection have advantages and disadvantages.

The LAN connection works uninterruptedly and can cover longer distances with its network cable without loss of performance. The wireless network has no effect on signal transmission. On the other hand, devices connected to routers via LAN cables are less mobile. In addition, a network cable must be purchased and connected. If there is a defect in the cable, it must be replaced. That means new investment.

LAN network advantages & disadvantages:

WLAN networks offer the greatest possible mobility and are usually set up quickly. The drawback of the WiFi connection is that it is less stable. Wireless networks can cause interference in data transmission.

Advantages Disadvantages:

If you need a stable and trouble-free connection for data transmission, you are better off using a wired network. Many network-connected end devices such as printers or TV sets, however, are not mobile, so this is not a disadvantage. If short distances have to be covered and mobility is ahead - for example to integrate a laptop into a WLAN network is the solution the recommended option.

The terms from the network world are explained simply

• Bandwidth: Bandwidth is the difference between the highest and lowest transmission frequency over which the cable can transmit data and is given in Hertz. As this sounds quite theoretical, here's an example: The lower limit of analog telephone frequency is 300 Hertz, the upper limit is 3,400 Hertz. The difference between the two values ​​is 3,100 hertz and represents the bandwidth of an analog telephone. In common parlace, the term bandwidth is often used for data rate or transmission speed, which is not true. Data rate provides information about the amount of data that can be transported from one point to another over a network cable in a given time. Data or transmission speed is specified in bits per second..
• RJ45: RJ45 is the name of the most commonly used type of network connector. RJ45 plugs are better known as western plugs. Category 7 and higher cables must be equipped with a GG45 connector, as the RJ45 connector is too tight for high bandwidth.
• PoE: PoE stands for "Power over Ethernet". If this function is specified for a LAN cable, the connected device can be supplied with power via the cable and does not have to be connected to a power source via a separate power plug. PoE is useful when there are not enough or no outlets near the device to be connected.
• Simplex/duplex cable: Most network cables are called simplex cables. What this means is a simple cable with eight wires – it doesn't matter if it's round or flat. There is a connector at each end of the cable. A duplex cable has 16 cores, to be precise, twice eight cores. The eight cores are each in a separate sheath, the cable sheaths are located side by side and glued together. Duplex network cables have two connectors at each end.
• Lag: The term "lag" sometimes appears in connection with networks and network cables. Information is shared across the network and passed from sender to receiver in the form of packets. If there is a problem with forwarding, individual packets may be lost. This loss is referred to as "package-loss", which means "loss of package" in German. If a packet is lost, the receiver sends a new request and the sender sends the packet again. There is a slight delay in data transmission due to updated requests and transmissions. This delay is called "lag" in technical jargon.

Tips for planning a home network

The quality of each component greatly determines the efficiency of the home network. Powerful routers form the center. From here, network cables leading to individual devices, which are connected to the network via cable or WLAN must be integrated. It's a good idea to create a sketch that lists all the devices to be connected.

This not only makes it easier to answer the question of how many network cables are needed and at what length. The sketch also shows whether the wires should be routed under the door or under the carpet. In this case, a flat network cable will be more suitable than a cable with a round cross section.

The sketch makes it easy to determine if the number of ports on the router is sufficient for the planned project. If this is not the case, the switch should be on the shopping list as an extension.

What to consider when buying a network cable?

Once the home network plan is ready, it is important to get the right Ethernet cable for implementation. When buying, the following points should be noted for smooth implementation:

1. Cable type: Patch cables are the best choice for setting up a home network or just for connecting end devices to a router or switch. The cable is equipped with a plug and is immediately ready to use. If during planning it became clear that the cable needs to be routed under the door or under the carpet, it is recommended to use a flat network cable. If a new building is planned, installation cables for long-term network infrastructure construction can be considered.
2. Performance class: The general rule here is: the higher, the better. Cat 1 to Cat 3 category network cables must not be used. They are outdated when it comes to bandwidth and data rates and no longer do justice to modern devices. Cat 5, Cat 6 and Cat 7 cables are sufficient for a home network. Cat 7 cable is future-proof, but more expensive. Category 8 Ethernet cables are more commonly used in large enterprise networks.
3. Length: When planning a home network, the distance the Ethernet cable will cover is determined. Cable lengths determined in this way should not be set in stone. Adding about 30 percent wouldn't hurt. So it is impossible for the cable to be pulled and stretched because the distance is a bit far. Eventually the end device has to be set up elsewhere. However, Ethernet cables shouldn't be too long - otherwise, a cable mess can easily result.
4. Connector type: RJ45 is the most common type of connector. Most ports are compatible with this connector. If you buy a Cat 7 cable, make sure it is equipped with a GG45 connector. The RJ45 connector slows down the fast lane. However, the device port must match the connector. The GG45 port accepts GG45 plugs and RJ45 connectors. However, the GG45 connector is not compatible with the RJ45 port.
5. Locking nose guard: The small flap above the nose that locks is called a rat nose guard. The plug goes into the port with a latch. The protection prevents the locking lugs from being pressed from below and breaking in the process. A locking tab guard is recommended if the cable is frequently disconnected from the port.
6. Vibration protection: Kink protection is a rigid thickening of the transition between the cord and plug. It protects the sensitive wires inside the cable. This transition is a tricky point, as this is where the cable tends to hang a bit when plugged into a port on the device. Vibration protection extends network cable life.

What network cable manufacturers and brands are there?

Network cables are offered by the following manufacturers and brands, including:

• BIGtec
• CSL computer
• UGREEN
• Mommy

In addition, many other companies offer network cables.

Frequently asked questions about network cables

Why are the wires in the network cable twisted?

Network cable forwards data. This creates an electromagnetic field that causes interference. By twisting the cores in a twisted pair cable, the electromagnetic fields are canceled out as they neutralize each other. Data is transmitted relatively free from interference even without shielding.

What is the maximum length of the network cable?

Cables are almost always limited in length if they are to be transmitted optimally. This applies to speaker cables, USB cables, and Ethernet cables. The latter is intended to allow short distance communication. A cable weakens the signal after a certain length. This state is called cable attenuation. It only becomes relevant for network cables from a length of about 100 meters. Network cables can easily be 10 or 20 meters long without having to worry about negative effects on transmission.

With unshielded network cables, their length plays a special role with respect to transmission quality. Unshielded network cable should not exceed 10 meters.

What is meant by "crimping"?

Broadly speaking, crimping means attaching a connector to a cable. If you want to determine the length of the network cable yourself and buy bulk, you will have to plug in the cable yourself. In addition to cables and plugs, various tools are required such as crimping pliers, wire strippers, and cable cutters.

The cable tester is very helpful, because the cable wire must be inserted into the plug correctly according to a certain scheme. Depending on the type of wiring, there are standard circuit diagrams. The actual crimping then presses together the wires with the contacts to ensure good electrical transmission. The joint can only be loosened to a certain extent after crimping.

Can the network cable be extended?

If the Ethernet cable is not long enough to bridge the desired distance, the cable can be easily extended. There are special network cable couplings on the market. This clutch has network connectors on both sides. To extend the cable, only two plugs must be inserted into the coupling. Or, intermediate switches help cover longer distances.

Where can I buy a network cable?

The internet has been on the rise for a long time when it comes to shopping. Many sales platforms offer all things everyday use. Online shopping has many advantages, such as the convenience of shopping from the comfort of your couch. In addition, there are no opening hours on the Internet like in local shops. The platform is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and delivery is usually fast. There is a large selection of different network cables of different lengths on the Internet and it is easy to compare specifications and prices.

Another advantage is the right of withdrawal, which online trading must provide. If a product does not meet the buyer's expectations, he can return it within 14 days without giving a reason and the purchase price will be refunded.

Locally, network cables are available from electronics accessory stores, computer accessory stores, and large supermarkets with electronics departments. The selection of different variants may vary in size, but is smaller than on the Internet. Local retailers can score points above all through suggestions. In the best case, expert staff will help you choose the right Ethernet cable. Meanwhile, more and more consumers prefer to buy locally to support local businesses.

Conclusion

Network cables are important to consider when you want to build a computer network. You can choose a LAN cable based on the type, category, to needs. You can also choose it based on the price to the length of the size.

This article has thoroughly discussed how to choose a LAN cable. We have also provided recommendations for the best network cable products for you. Hopefully our product recommendations can help you in choosing a LAN cable.

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