You need a robust and reliable foundation to get the most out of your business network—and that foundation is your ethernet cabling. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your business network or you’re just getting started, this comprehensive guide will teach you everything you need to know about Cat5, Cat 6, Cat 7, and Cat 8 cabling installation near Colton.
Ethernet Cables 101
Let’s start with the basics: what is an Ethernet cable? In short, an Ethernet cable is a cabling used to connect devices on a Local Area Network (LAN). Ethernet cables can be made from different materials and come in various sizes and shapes, but they all serve the same primary purpose.
The most common type of Ethernet cable is called Category 5 (CAT5) cable. CAT5 cables are made from twisted pairs of copper wire enclosed in a plastic casing. These cables are typically used for shorter distances, such as connecting a computer to a router or modem. For longer distances, you’ll want to use CAT6 or CAT7 cable, which are made from thicker gauge wires and have additional shielding to protect against interference.
When choosing an Ethernet cable, there are two primary considerations: length and speed. For most business networks, a standard CAT5 cable that is 3 feet (0.9 meters) long will be sufficient. However, if you need a longer cable or you want the fastest possible speeds, you may want to consider upgrading to CAT6 or CAT7. For lengths over 50 feet (15 meters), it’s best to use fiber optic cable, which is not susceptible to interference like copper cables are.
As for speed, most small business networks will be fine with a standard 10/100 Mbps connection. However, if you have devices that require a faster connection, you’ll want to upgrade to a Gigabit (10/100/1000 Mbps) connection.
Cat6 and Cat7 cables can handle Gigabit speeds, but they can be expensive; if cost is a concern, another option is to use two Cat5 cables in what’s known as “bonded mode.” This will give you increased speeds without breaking the bank.
Get Started With Empire Technologies!
Now that you know the basics of Ethernet cabling, it’s time to start setting up or upgrading your business network! Contact Empire Technologies for your next Cat5, Cat 6, Cat 7, or Cat 8 cabling installation near Colton. We’re ready to streamline your operations and increase performance at your company today!
