Ethernet Cables Types: Cat 3, 5, 5e, 6, 6a, 7, 8 Wires Explained

What are Ethernet Cables?

Ethernet cables are networking cables that connect devices—like computers, routers, and switches—within a Local Area Network (LAN). Unlike Wi-Fi, they provide stable, high-speed, and interference-free connections, which are vital for gaming, business operations, and data-intensive environments.

These cables come in all sizes. Based on your need, you can get whatever length you want. They are typically made of copper (twisted-pair) or fiber optics, enclosed in protective jackets. The most common connector is the RJ45 plug, though advanced standards (like Cat7 and Cat8) may use specialized connectors such as GG45 or Ethercon.

Their primary role is to transmit data packets efficiently with minimal latency or loss, ensuring seamless communication between devices and access to the internet.

What are the Different Categories of Ethernet Cables?

There are many Ethernet cable options available, and each one of them has its unique purpose and use. Therefore, it is important to understand each cable and its application if you want to acquire in-depth knowledge about the types of Ethernet cables. You need to choose the higher-quality cable only, which will be stronger, faster, and a better fit for your specific needs.

However, depending on your hardware, you can select the category of Ethernet cabling below.

1. Category-3
   Cat3 cable is an earlier generation of cable, which supports a maximum frequency of 16 MHz. This cable may have 2, 3, or 4 copper pairs. Cat3 type of Ethernet cable is still used for two-line telephone systems and 10BASE-T networks. It is also used for alarm system installation or similar kinds of applications.
2. Category-5
   These cables are slower compared to modern-day hardware requirements. So, you should use this type of cable only if you have older hardware that demands outdated hardware.
4. Category-5e
   Cat5e is one of the most popular types of Ethernet cable used for deployments because of its ability to support Gigabit speeds at a cost-effective price.
   Cat 5e can support up to 1000 Mbps speeds, which is flexible enough for small space installations. Therefore, it is widely used in residential areas. Cat5e is one of the least expensive cable options available in the market.
5. Category-6
   Cat6 cabling supports up to 10 Gbps and frequencies of up to 250 MHz. These types of cables are more tightly twisted and feature two or more twists per centimeter. It only supports 37-55 meters when transmitting 10 Gbps speeds.
   

   

6. Category-6a
   Cat6a Ethernet cable supports bandwidth frequencies of up to 500 MHz. Cat6a cabling is thicker compared to Cat6, making it less flexible. That is why it is more suited for industrial environments at a lower price point.
7. Category-7
   Cat7 has the ability to transmit up to 40 Gb at 50 meters and 100 Gb at 15 meters. This type of Ethernet cable offers extensive shielding to decrease signal attenuation. It is relatively stiff in comparison to previous generations of cabling.
   Cat7 Cable is suited for use in data centers and large enterprise networks. However, Cat7 has not been approved as a cable standard for telecommunications.
8. Category-8
   Category 8 cable is designed for operations of up to 2000 MHz. CAT8 cables work with 25/40GBASE-T Gigabit Ethernet; this reduces power consumption and is designed for bandwidth-intensive data center applications.
   This type of cable is ideal for use where the distances between units are short. CAT8 cables are backward compatible with previous categories of Ethernet cables.

Cat Types

Cable Type	Shielding	Maximum Frequency	Max Data Rate	Speed
Cat 3	No	16Mhz	10 Mbps	10Mbps
Cat 5	No	100MHz	100 Mbps	100Mbps
Cat 5e	No	100MHz	1,000 Mbps / 1 Gbps	1Gbps
Cat 6	Sometimes	250Mhz	1,000 Mbps / 1 Gbps	1Gbps
Cat 6a	Sometimes	500MHz	10,000 Mbps / 10 Gbps	10Gbps
Cat 7	Yes	600Mhz	40,000 Mbps/ 40 Gbps	10Gbps
Cat 8	Yes	2GHz	25 Gbps or 40 Gbps	40Gbps

What are the Different Types of Ethernet Cables?

Fiber-optic cabling

Fiber optic cables mostly consist of a center glass, and different layers of protective materials surround it. Fiber-optic cabling transmits light in place of electronic signals, which removes the issue of electrical interference. This makes it an ideal selection for environments that contain a large amount of electrical interference.

This type of network cable offers the ability to transmit signals over longer distances. It also provides the ability to carry information at a faster speed.

Two types of fiber-optic cables are:

• Single-mode fiber (SMF)–This type of fiber optic cable uses only a single ray of light to carry data. Used for larger distance wiring.
• Multi-mode fiber (MMF)–This type of fiber-optic uses multiple rays of light to carry data. Less expensive than SMF.

Four types of connectors in the network that are mostly used for fiber optic cable are:

• ST (Straight-tip Connector)
• SC (Subscriber Connector)
• FC (Fiber Channel)
• LC (Lucent Connector)

Coaxial cabling

Coaxial Cable is a standard for 10 Mbps Ethernet cables. These types of cables consist of an inner copper wire covered with insulation and another shielding.

It has a plastic layer that offers insulation between the braided metal shield and the center conductor. Coaxial cabling has a single copper conductor in its center.

Types of Coaxial Cable are 1) RG58 2) RG8 3) RG6 4) RG59

Twisted-pair cabling

Twisted-pair cabling is a type of cabling in which pairs of wires are twisted together to stop electromagnetic interference (EMI) from other wire pairs.

Two types of twisted pair cables are:

1. Unshielded Twisted Pair
2. Shielded Twisted Pair

Why Shielded Ethernet Cables are a Better Choice?

As network speeds increase, electromagnetic interference (EMI) becomes a major issue. Shielding protects the twisted pairs inside Ethernet cables, ensuring stable performance. Each shielding type has unique strengths depending on the environment.

Here are some important Shielded Ethernet Cables

Cable Name	Full Form	Description
F/UTP	Foiled/Unshielded Twisted Pair	This type of Cable will have a foil shield, which can be wrapped around unshielded twisted pairs. It is commonly used in Fast Ethernet deployments.
S/UTP	Braided/Unshielded Twisted Pair (S/UTP) Cable	It will be covered with a braided shield around unshielded twisted pairs.
S/FTP	Braided Shielding/Foiled Twisted Pair	In this type of shielded Ethernet cable, each twisted pair is enveloped in foil.
SF/UTP	Braided Shielding+Foil/Unshielded Twisted Pairs	This cable braid has a cover around a foil wrap that encloses unshielded twisted pairs.
F/FTP	Foiled/Foiled Twisted Pair	This type of FTP cable encloses all copper pairs in foil.
U/FTP	Unshielded/Foiled Twisted Pairs	This cable only envelopes the twisted pairs in foil.
U/UTP	Unshielded/Unshielded Twisted Pair.	In this type of cable, no sheathing is used. Standard Cat5e is a common cable example of U/UTP cables.

What are Ethernet Cable Connectors & Pinouts?

Connectors are the endpoints of Ethernet cables that enable devices to plug into routers, switches, and computers. The connector type and wiring standard affect compatibility and performance.

RJ45 (Registered Jack 45)

• The most common connector used with Cat5e, Cat6, and Cat6a.
• Features 8 pins (8P8C) that align with the twisted pairs.
• Used in both residential and commercial installations.

GG45 (GigaGate 45)

• Developed for Cat7 cables.
• Backward compatible with RJ45.
• Provides extra pins to support higher frequencies (up to 600 MHz).

Ethercon Connectors

• Ruggedized version of RJ45 with a metal casing.
• Designed for stage, broadcast, and industrial environments.
• Prevents accidental damage and ensures secure connections.

Wiring Standards: T568A vs. T568B

Ethernet cables follow two wiring schemes:

Pin	T568A	T568B
1	White/Green	White/Orange
2	Green	Orange
3	White/Orange	White/Green
4	Blue	Blue
5	White/Blue	White/Blue
6	Orange	Green
7	White/Brown	White/Brown
8	Brown	Brown

• T568B is more widely used, but both are functional as long as both ends match.
• Straight-through cables: Same wiring on both ends (used for PC-to-switch).
• Crossover cables: Different wiring on each end (used for switch-to-switch or PC-to-PC), though modern devices support auto-MDIX to auto-correct.

How to Choose the Right Ethernet Cable?

Selecting the right Ethernet cable depends on your network speed, environment, and future needs. A mismatched cable can create bottlenecks even if your hardware supports higher speeds.

1. Match Speed Requirements

• Basic Internet (≤100 Mbps): Cat5e is sufficient.
• Gigabit Internet (1 Gbps): Cat5e or Cat6.
• 10 Gbps and above: Cat6a, Cat7, or Cat8.

2. Consider Cable Length

• Runs under 55 meters: Cat6 can handle 10 Gbps.
• Runs up to 100 meters: Use Cat6a or Cat7 for stability.
• Data centers (≤30m): Cat8 supports 25/40 Gbps.

3. Check Installation Environment

• Home/Office: UTP (Unshielded) cables are cost-effective.
• High-EMI zones (factories, near power lines): Choose shielded cables (STP, S/FTP).
• Plenum spaces: Use CMP-rated cables for fire safety.

4. Plan for the Future

• Always consider higher-category cables if the cost difference is minimal.
• Investing in Cat6a or Cat7 avoids costly re-cabling as speeds increase.

Rule of Thumb: Use Cat5e/Cat6 for homes, Cat6a for offices, and Cat7/8 for enterprise or data centers.

What are the Applications of Ethernet Cable?

Beyond standard networking, Ethernet cables are used in specialized environments where they carry not only data but also power or withstand harsh conditions.

Power over Ethernet (PoE)

• Allows both data and electrical power to travel through the same Ethernet cable.
• Common in IP cameras, VoIP phones, wireless access points (WAPs), and IoT devices.
• Benefit: Simplifies installation—no need for separate power lines.
• Note: Requires Cat5e or higher for stable delivery.

Industrial Ethernet

• Designed to handle vibration, extreme temperatures, and EMI-heavy environments.
• Often uses shielded or armored cables for durability.
• Use Cases: Manufacturing plants, automation systems, oil & gas sectors.

Data Centers & High-Speed Networking

• Rely on Cat6a, Cat7, and Cat8 cables for ultra-fast speeds (10–40 Gbps).
• Short-distance Cat8 runs (up to 30m) connect switches and servers.
• Shielded cables are preferred to prevent interference in dense cable racks.

These applications highlight Ethernet’s versatility—serving not just as a data medium, but also as a power source and industrial backbone.

Troubleshooting Common Ethernet Cable Issues

Ethernet connectivity problems can stem from various cable-related issues. Understanding how to diagnose and resolve these problems ensures reliable network performance and helps avoid costly downtime.

Here are common issues and how to fix them:

1. No Connectivity

• Cause: Loose RJ45 connector, broken cable, or port issue.
• Fix: Reseat connectors, test with another port, or replace the cable.

2. Slow Speeds

• Cause: Using older categories (e.g., Cat5 instead of Cat6), excessive cable length, or EMI interference.
• Fix: Upgrade to Cat6a or higher, shorten run length, use shielded cables in high-EMI areas.

3. Frequent Disconnections

• Cause: Strained or bent cable, faulty connectors, or mismatched wiring standard (T568A vs T568B).
• Fix: Replace damaged cable, ensure proper wiring, and avoid sharp bends.

4. Crosstalk and Interference

• Cause: Cables run alongside power lines or have poor shielding.
• Fix: Use STP/S/FTP cables, separate from electrical wiring, and improve grounding.

5. Power over Ethernet (PoE) Failures

• Cause: Using non-PoE-rated cables or exceeding length limits.
• Fix: Ensure Cat5e or higher, keep runs within 100m, verify PoE switch compatibility.

Expert Advice: Always keep a cable tester handy to quickly diagnose continuity, pinout, and performance issues.

FAQs

Summary

Ethernet cables range from legacy Cat3 to modern Cat8, each designed for different speeds, shielding, and use cases. Twisted-pair cables dominate home and office setups, while fiber optics and Cat7/Cat8 support enterprise and data centers.

When choosing a cable, consider speed requirements, installation environment, shielding, and future upgrades. For most users, Cat6 or Cat6a balances cost and performance, while businesses with heavy data loads should opt for Cat7 or Cat8.

The right Ethernet cable ensures faster speeds, stable connections, and future-proof networking.