5 Factors to Consider when Choosing Ethernet Cables

ethernet connection

Ethernet is the technology that allows devices in a LAN setting to communicate with each other. To install ethernet, you’ll need a router, switch, ethernet cables, RJ-45 end, and computers. Proper installation and configuration of your ethernet connection increases the productivity of an organization because it makes sharing of data and information fast and conveniently.

However, choosing the right cable can be difficult. When selecting ethernet cables, there are factors you must put into consideration, and they are as follows:

1. Cable Category

Ethernet cables fall into different categories. If you have a small scale business, you will need a Cat5e which transmits 1Gb/s at a frequency of 100MHz. The cable eliminates interference during data transmission, but it’s not shielded. However, if you have a large business and require a larger bandwidth transmission, consider investing in Cat6 cables.

2. Shielded or non-shielded

Why is shielding important? Shielding is necessary when your data is at risk of noise and magnetic energy interference. Therefore, if you are setting up an ethernet connection in a high interference environment, you will need a shielded cable like Cat6a.

If your data transmission is low or isn’t a priority, then you can consider an unshielded cable. It might not reduce interference since it lacks shielding, but cancels out electromagnetic interference.

3. Length

Depending on the size of your room, you can buy a 75ft ethernet cable to 500ft ethernet cable. The point is, buy a cable slightly longer than you require because someday you might need to reroute it or move further in your room.

4. Supplier

Shopping online for ethernet cables allows you to compare the same product from different suppliers. Besides, you get to pick the best cable at a fair price.

5. Solid or stranded

Solid ethernet cables use one piece of solid copper for each conductor, while stranded combines several intertwisted wires. Solid cables should be used where there is less or no movement expected to avoid breakage. On the other hand, stranded cables are flexible and therefore can be moved frequently. You can use solid for permanent runs such as from a patch panel to, say, a surface mount box/faceplate, while a stranded is used for patch cables, which bridge permanent links.

Bottom line

The internet has become a necessity in running any business, whether on a large or small scale. Besides, a research that was conducted by the Pew Research Center stated that 77% of Americans use the Internet daily. Clearly, the internet is becoming a necessity to achieve daily goals.

Additionally, employees can share data and information over a network, which reduces paperwork. Besides having an internet connection, there is a need to install it correctly to maximize speed and uninterrupted data transfer. Whichever reasons you choose to establish an ethernet connection, do it right, and above all, invest in good cables.

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