Basics of Ethernet Connection Everyone Should Know of

We all use internet connections. And for your internet connection, there are various things that you will require. For example, router, ethernet cables, modem, etc. Today we will talk about Ethernet cables and types of ethernet cables.

First things first. What are Ethernet Cables?

An ethernet cable is a cable that runs from a router, modem, or switches giving your devices the internet or LAN (Local Area Network) access. The benefit of hardwiring internet connections is that it is consistent and faster. The internet speed will not drop due to walls or objects blocking Wifi. For gamers, gaming with ethernet cables means less lag and faster loading time.

Types of Ethernet Cables

Some categories of ethernet cables are further divided based on shielding it has and the copper conductors infused in it. Let us check what they are.

Fiber Optic Cable

These cables have a center glass surrounded by different layers of protective materials. These cables transmit light in place of electronic signals. Thus there will be no electrical interference. Thus, it is an ideal choice for environments that contain a large amount of electrical interference. These types of cables can be used to transmit signals over long distances. There are two types of optical cables.

Solid Cables

Solid cables have one copper wire for each electrical conductor. These cables are not flexible but are durable. They are mostly used for permanent installations, outdoors and inside the walls.

Stranded Cables

Stranded cables have copper wires twisted together. They are more flexible so they can be used at a desk or place where you need more movement.

Coaxial Cable

These cables have an inner copper wire with insulation and shielding. It has a plastic layer that works as insulation between the metal shield and central conductor which is the single copper conductor. They are the standard for 10 Mbps ethernet cables.

Twisted-pair Cable

In these Twisted-pair cables, the wires are twisted together to stop electromagnetic interference(EMI) from the other wire pairs. The two types of twisted pair cables are Unshielded and Shielded.

Shielded Twisted Pair Cable

Shielded twisted pair cable (STP) is individual wire pairs wrapped in foil. These pairs are wrapped in a mess shield which provides double protection. They are ideal for high-speed networks. Due to the shielding, they are ideal for outdoor or inside the walls.

Unshielded Twisted Pair Cable

Unshielded twisted pair cords have each pair of wires twisted together. Without any added protection layer these wires are wrapped in a tube. It has twisted wires to reduce cross talks. As they do not have an extra layer of protection these wires are less expensive. You can use them between your computer and walls.

Ethernet Cables Categories

There are many ethernet cords categories available. They have their unique purpose and use. So it is important to understand each cords and its application. Choose a cords that is of high quality, stronger, faster, and a perfect fit for your requirements.

Cat 5E: It is the most popular type of ethernet cords. It has the ability to support gigabit speed. It is flexible enough for small space and is cost-effective. Therefore, it is extensively used in residential areas.

Cat 6: These cords support upto 10 Gbps and frequency upto 250 MHz. The cords are more tightly twisted. Per centimeter, it has two or more twists. It supports upto 55 meters while transmitting 10 Gbps speeds.

Cat 6A: These Ethernet cords support bandwidth upto 500 MHz. Cat 6A cables are thicker compared to Cat6 and thus are less flexible. But due to this reason, Cat 6A cables makes it suitable for the industrial environment.

Cat 7: These ethernet cords can transmit upto 40 Gb at 50 meters and 100 Gb at 15 meters. These cords have extensive shielding to reduce signal attenuation. It is stiffer compared to previous categories of ethernet cords. They are most suited for use in data centers and large enterprise networks.

Cat 8: These ethernet cables can support upto 2000 MHz. It is designed in such a way that reduces power consumption and is the best choice for bandwidth-intensive data center applications. To get the best performance, the distance between units must be short. Cat 8 cables are compatible with all the other previous categories.

Conclusion

There is no denying the fact that the ethernet cables are consistent, faster, secure than wifi connections. So if you are planning to have a wired connection at your home or office then choose the cords as per your device requirement. If you need higher bandwidth, opt for Cat 8 cords or Cat 6A cables whereas for comparatively lower bandwidth, go for Cat 5E.

Jennifer Truong is the owner of SF Cable, a california based online retailer of all kind of Computers, electronics, electrical accessories, networking accessories, cables, wires. Jennifer has extensive experience in the Electronics industry and blog.