CAT 5, CAT 6, CAT 7 and CAT 8: these are the differences
In this article we show you what the differences between the network cables CAT 5, CAT 6, CAT 7 and CAT 8 are. In general, these terms describe the performance classes of network cables. But the differences are not only in the transmission rate.
CAT 5: the most common cable
CAT-5 cables can be found in most installations and are therefore considered the standard.
- CAT-5 cables achieve signal rates of up to 100 MHz and are therefore suitable for gigabit operation.
- They are still installed in a professional environment, although not as often as CAT 6 or CAT 7.
- For home users, CAT-5 cables are completely sufficient in most situations.
CAT 6: the all-rounder
The cables of the CAT-6 category are often used especially in the professional area.
- CAT-6 cables reach operating frequencies of up to 250 MHz. However, their transmission speed decreases the longer the cable is.
- The cables of the CAT-6 category are used in the entire network infrastructure of public life.
- The CAT-6a standard even reaches operating frequencies of up to 500 MHz and is therefore suitable for 10 Gigabit Ethernet.
- In order to meet the standard, the cable must be particularly protected against external influences such as secondary signals or noise.
CAT 7: the ultimate in home use
The CAT-7 standard is the fastest and most shielded standard among network cables.
- CAT-7 cables have an operating frequency of up to 600 MHz. The CAT-7a sub-category even manages up to 1, 000 MHz.
- All cables of the CAT-7 category have 4 separately shielded wire pairs in one complete shield. This means that there are virtually no secondary signals reaching the cable.
- There are exactly 2 different standardized connector types for network cables of the CAT-7 class.
CAT 8: For the professional area
CAT-8 cables are used almost exclusively in the professional field. They are too expensive for home users and are not really worth it.
- CAT 8 achieves twice the operating frequencies as CAT 7. However, the cables can only be used for short distances.
- The standard is twisted pair cables that are completely shielded. Disruptions don't stand a chance here.
- CAT-8 cables have two subcategories, 8.1 and 8.2. CAT 8.1 is compatible with the normal Ethernet plugs. CAT 8.2 uses a connector specially designed for the professional sector.
In the next practical tips, we will show you how best to set up a network for a LAN party and how to connect two computers with a LAN cable.