An Ethernet cable links your computer or console to your router or switch. Choose by category, length, shielding and build. Most homes and small offices are well served by a recent category cable of modest length, as long as your router and device support the speed you want.
Reading the Category Label
Ethernet cables carry a category name printed on the jacket, such as Cat5e, Cat6 or Cat6a. Higher numbers generally support faster speeds and handle interference better over distance. The speed you actually get depends on your router, the device’s network port and your internet plan too, so a faster cable alone will not speed up a slow connection.
Quick Reference
| Category | General role |
|---|---|
| Cat5e | Common for basic home links |
| Cat6 | Added headroom for faster home networks |
| Cat6a | Built for faster links over longer runs |
| Cat7 and above | Heavier shielding, often used in specialised setups |
Check the maker’s notes for exact speed and distance figures, as they depend on the build.
Other Details That Matter
- Length: measure the route along walls, not a straight line. Buy a little extra, but avoid huge coils.
- Shielding: shielded cable helps near power cables or other sources of interference. Unshielded is fine for typical rooms.
- Jacket shape: flat cables slip under doors and along skirting. Round cables are common and sturdy.
- Plug design: look for a snag-free boot, or a latch cover, to protect the clip.
- Conductor type: solid cable suits fixed installs; stranded is more flexible for desks.
Setting It Up
- Locate the free port on your router or switch.
- Press the plug in until the clip clicks.
- Route the cable away from sharp edges and heavy foot traffic.
- Plug the other end into your device.
- Check that your device shows a wired connection.
If you are running a cable inside walls or through ceilings, follow local building rules or use a qualified installer.
Keep a few practical habits. Do not bend the cable sharply or pinch it in a door, because internal pairs can be damaged and cause drops in speed. Do not staple through the jacket. If a link is slow, swap the cable for another before blaming the router, and power-cycle the router and device as the maker advises. Short patch leads suit desks, while longer runs are better fixed neatly along walls.
FAQ
Is wired always better than Wi-Fi?
Wired links tend to be steadier, which helps with calls and large transfers. Wi-Fi is more convenient for roaming devices.
Will a longer cable slow my connection?
Within the limits stated by the maker, length has little effect. Beyond them, errors can rise.
The Short Version
Read the category on the jacket, measure the route, and match the cable to your router and device. Add shielding only where interference is likely, and follow local rules for any fixed installation.