If you’re setting up or upgrading your business’s network, you’ve probably come across a big question: Cat5 vs. Cat6 – which Ethernet cable should you choose? And maybe you’ve also seen Cat6a and are wondering how that fits in.

It can all feel a little technical, but don’t worry — we’re breaking it down in a simple, straightforward way. Whether you’re wiring up a single office or hundreds of business locations, the cable you use matters. It can impact your internet speed, your ability to grow, and how reliable your network is day-to-day.

Let’s take a closer look at how these cables are different, and which one makes the most sense for your business.

What Are Ethernet Cables?

If you’ve ever plugged your computer into the internet using a wire instead of Wi-Fi, you’ve used an Ethernet cable. These cables are the unsung heroes behind most business networks. They connect your devices—like desktop computers, VoIP phones, printers, point-of-sale (POS) systems, servers, and routers—to your local area network (LAN). In simpler terms, Ethernet cables are what make your wired internet connection possible.

Why Are Ethernet Cables So Important?

While Wi-Fi is super convenient, Ethernet cables are still the gold standard for reliable, high-speed internet connections—especially in professional settings. Why? Because Ethernet offers:

• Faster speeds
• More consistent performance
• Better security
• Less interference from other electronics

If your business depends on video calls, streaming, or secure file transfers, using Ethernet can make a big difference in quality and reliability.

Cabling Isn’t a Fix for All Internet Issues

While upgrading to Cat6 or Cat6a can dramatically improve the performance and reliability of your internal network, it’s important to understand its limitations. Ethernet cabling won’t fix issues coming from your internet service provider (ISP) or a low-speed WAN (wide-area network) connection. If your incoming internet connection is slow due to provider limitations or external network congestion, even the highest-grade Ethernet cable won’t make your internet faster.

Instead, what Cat6 and Cat6a can do is eliminate bottlenecks inside your own network. That means:

• Ensuring your Wi-Fi access points, VoIP phones, and workstations aren’t slowed down by outdated internal wiring
• Supporting high-speed data transfers between devices on your local network
• Giving your network infrastructure the capacity to keep up with high-speed internet, if and when it's available

If you're frustrated by paying for gigabit internet and only experiencing a fraction of that speed, upgrading your cabling might be part of the solution, but it’s not the whole solution. Before investing in new cabling, make sure other parts of your network, like routers, switches, and ISP performance, aren't the real cause of the slowdown.

What Does “Cat” Mean in Ethernet Cables?

You might have seen terms like Cat5, Cat6, or Cat6a when shopping for Ethernet cables. That “Cat” stands for Category, and the number that follows it tells you how advanced the cable is. Generally, the higher the number, the newer and better the cable’s performance.

Each category of Ethernet cable has different capabilities when it comes to:

• Speed (how fast data moves)
• Bandwidth (how much data it can handle at once)
• Shielding (how well it protects against signal interference)

So when you’re comparing Cat5 vs. Cat6, or Cat6 vs. Cat6a, you’re really looking at how each cable performs under different network demands.

Common Types of Ethernet Cables You’ll See

Let’s take a quick look at the three most common types of Ethernet cables used in businesses today:

• Cat5e (Category 5 enhanced): This is the older, more basic option. It supports speeds up to 1 Gbps and is fine for light internet use or small offices.
• Cat6 (Category 6): A step up from Cat5e, Cat6 supports faster speeds (up to 10 Gbps over short distances) and reduces interference, making it a great option for growing businesses that use cloud tools or have multiple connected devices.
• Cat6a (Category 6 augmented): This cable is designed for more advanced networks. It offers even better speed and shielding, and can handle 10 Gbps over longer distances — up to 100 meters. It’s often used in hospitals, data centers, or large office buildings.

Do You Really Need to Know the Difference?

If you’re managing IT or operations for a business, the answer is yes. Knowing the difference between Cat5 vs. Cat6 and Cat6 vs. Cat6a helps you make smarter decisions when setting up your network. It can also save you money in the long run. For example, using Cat6 instead of Cat5e might cost a bit more upfront, but it could prevent you from needing to upgrade everything again in just a couple of years.

Still Wondering Which One to Use?

Here’s a simple way to think about it:

• Small business with basic needs? Cat5e might work fine.
• Mid-sized or growing business? Cat6 is your best bet.
• Large, high-demand environment? Cat6a may be worth the investment.

At the end of the day, your Ethernet cable is the backbone of your network. Whether you’re supporting five devices or five hundred, choosing the right type can mean the difference between a slow, frustrating network and one that’s fast, stable, and ready for whatever comes next.

Cat5 vs. Cat6: What’s the Real Difference?

When it comes to building a reliable business network, the cables you use are just as important as your internet provider or hardware. If you're stuck between Cat5 vs. Cat6, you're not alone — it's one of the most common questions we hear from IT and operations teams planning a network upgrade or rollout.

While both are types of Ethernet cables, they’re built differently and perform differently. Let’s break it down in a way that’s easy to understand.

1. Speed and Bandwidth

What’s the speed difference between Cat5e and Cat6?

• Cat5e (which stands for “Category 5 Enhanced”) supports speeds of up to 1 gigabit per second (Gbps). It operates at a frequency of 100 MHz, which determines how much data it can carry at one time.
• Cat6 can support speeds up to 10 Gbps, but only for shorter distances — usually up to 55 meters. It operates at 250 MHz, giving it more than double the bandwidth of Cat5e.

So what does that mean in real life?

Let’s say you’re a business running cloud-based software, using VoIP phones, backing up files to the cloud, or hosting video calls daily — that adds up to a lot of data. Cat6 can handle more of that traffic, and it moves it faster. For modern businesses, especially those growing fast or managing multiple locations, this can help reduce lag, dropped calls, and long loading times.

Do I really need 10 Gbps speeds?

Maybe not right now — but think ahead. Many businesses are quickly outgrowing their old cabling because of new tech, bigger file sizes, and cloud reliance. Even if you're only using a gigabit today, using Cat6 gives you room to grow without having to rewire everything later.

2. Signal Quality

What makes Cat6 more reliable than Cat5e?

The design of the cable makes a huge difference. Cat6 cables are made with tighter twists in the internal wiring, and many also include a plastic spline or extra shielding. This helps block something called crosstalk, which is when signals from one cable interfere with signals in another.

Crosstalk can cause:

• Slower speeds
• Data errors
• Unstable connections

Cat6 dramatically reduces this interference, which means your connection is cleaner and more stable. This is especially important in places where you have a lot of devices, electronics, or other cabling — like data centers, hospitals, schools, or large offices.

3. Cost and Installation

Is Cat6 more expensive than Cat5e?

Yes — Cat6 cables typically cost more than Cat5e, both for the cable itself and for installation. The materials are more advanced, and the cable is usually a bit thicker and less flexible, which can make it harder to run through tight spaces.

So why pay more?

Here’s the thing: while Cat6 costs more upfront, it can actually save you money over time. You won’t have to upgrade as soon, and you’ll get better performance from the start. It’s a smart investment for businesses that rely on fast, stable internet connections or expect to scale up.

If your business is small or has minimal internet needs, Cat5e might be fine. But if you're investing in technology that your team uses every day, or managing sites across different regions, Cat6 will likely pay off quickly in terms of productivity and less downtime.

So, Which One Should You Pick?

Still deciding between Cat5 vs. Cat6? Here’s a simple way to look at it:

While Cat5e is still used in many places, the tech world is moving fast, and your cabling needs to keep up. When it comes to Cat5 vs. Cat6, Cat6 is usually the better choice for most businesses today. It’s faster, handles more data, and delivers a cleaner, more stable connection, all of which are essential when your business depends on reliable internet to stay productive.

And if you're setting up multiple locations or rolling out a large project, choosing the right cable from the start can save you from delays, poor performance, and future headaches.

Still have questions about which cable fits your needs best? We’ve got you covered.

When Should You Use Cat6 Over Cat5?

Deciding between Cat5 vs Cat6 isn’t always easy, especially if you're trying to balance performance with budget. But here’s the truth: while Cat5e (the enhanced version of Cat5) still works for many basic network setups, Cat6 is quickly becoming the go-to choice for businesses that depend on strong, high-speed internet every day.

Let’s walk through some common business situations where Cat6 is the better option, and why upgrading now can save you time and money later.

1. VoIP Phones

Do you use internet-based phone systems?

If your office uses VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) phones, Cat6 can make a noticeable difference in call quality. These systems rely on your internet connection to make and receive calls, and even small delays or interruptions can result in lag, dropped audio, or echo.

Why Cat6? Cat6 cables reduce interference and provide faster, more stable connections, which leads to clearer calls and less lag. This is especially helpful in call centers or support teams where high call volume is the norm.

2. Security Cameras (CCTV)

Are you running high-resolution security cameras?

Today’s surveillance systems often stream and store large video files. If you’re using HD or 4K security cameras, your network needs to be able to handle that data without dropping frames or buffering.

Why Cat6? Cat6 supports higher speeds and offers better protection from interference, so your video feeds remain smooth and reliable, even across long runs or multiple camera systems.

3. Wi-Fi Access Points

Do you have multiple Wi-Fi access points across your building?

Most businesses rely on strong wireless connections, especially in larger offices, hotels, hospitals, or schools. But here’s something a lot of people don’t realize, Wi-Fi access points are connected by Ethernet cables.

Why Cat6? Using Cat6 cables to connect your Wi-Fi access points ensures they can deliver the full speed your wireless network is capable of, especially as more devices come online. It’s the wired foundation that supports your wireless coverage.

4. Video Conferencing

Do your teams use Zoom, Teams, or Google Meet regularly?

Video conferencing has become a daily part of work life. But without a strong network, you’ll start to notice issues like:

• Freezing video
• Choppy audio
• Dropped calls

Why Cat6? Cat6 helps minimize interruptions and delays by providing faster, more consistent bandwidth. If your teams are working remotely, collaborating across locations, or joining client meetings online, you’ll want that extra stability.

5. Multi-Location Offices

Are you managing multiple sites or planning to expand?

If your business operates in several locations or is growing quickly, you need a network setup that can scale with you. Consistency across all sites is key to avoiding headaches during tech rollouts.

Why Cat6? Cat6 gives you the standardized speed and performance you need across all your locations. It also helps future-proof your investment so you’re not stuck replacing cables every few years when your needs increase.

What If My Current Setup Works Fine?

You might be thinking: “My internet works okay now — do I really need Cat6?”

That’s a valid question. Here’s the thing: even if your current equipment doesn’t require Cat6 speeds today, it likely will in the near future. Businesses are using more bandwidth than ever thanks to cloud software, smart devices, and larger file sizes. Waiting too long to upgrade could mean costly network changes later — especially if you have to tear out old cables and install new ones all over again.

Installing Cat6 now is like giving your business room to grow. It saves you from performance issues down the road and helps avoid extra labor costs when your technology needs catch up with your infrastructure.

When it comes to Cat5 vs Cat6, the choice depends on your network’s current and future needs. But if your business uses VoIP, video conferencing, wireless access points, security cameras, or operates in multiple locations, Cat6 is the smarter long-term choice. It may cost a little more upfront, but the benefits — speed, reliability, and future readiness — are worth it.

Cat6 vs. Cat6a – Do You Need the Extra Power?

If you’ve already made the decision to upgrade from Cat5e, you’re probably wondering what’s next — and that brings us to the next big question: Cat6 vs Cat6a. These two types of Ethernet cables are often compared by IT pros who are building fast, future-ready networks. But what’s the difference? And do you really need the added power of Cat6a?

Let’s break it down in simple terms so you can decide what’s right for your business.

What Makes Cat6a Different From Cat6?

At first glance, Cat6 and Cat6a look similar, and both are definitely a big step up from Cat5e. But Cat6a — which stands for “Category 6 augmented” — was designed to offer even better performance for high-speed networks.

Here’s how Cat6a stands out:

• Faster Over Longer Distances: Both Cat6 and Cat6a support 10 gigabit per second (10 Gbps) speeds. The key difference?
  • Cat6 can only support 10 Gbps up to about 55 meters (roughly 180 feet).
  • Cat6a can carry 10 Gbps speeds across a full 100 meters (328 feet) — the maximum length allowed by Ethernet standards.
• If you’re running cables across a large building, warehouse, or campus, Cat6a gives you that extra distance without losing speed.
• More Bandwidth:
  • Cat6 operates at 250 MHz, which is already solid for most business uses.
  • Cat6a doubles that, running at 500 MHz — giving it more capacity to handle heavy traffic and prevent data slowdowns.
• Better Shielding Against Interference: Cat6a cables usually come with extra shielding around the internal wires. This shielding reduces something called alien crosstalk, which is when signals from nearby cables cause interference.
  This is especially helpful in environments where lots of cables are packed closely together — like data centers or server rooms.

When Is Cat6a Worth It?

So, now that you know the technical advantages, let’s look at some real-world scenarios where Cat6a makes sense:

• Large Facilities: If you’re installing network cabling in a hospital, school, or corporate campus, those long cable runs might require Cat6a to maintain speed and reduce signal loss.
• Data-Heavy Environments: Are you transferring big files, streaming high-resolution video, or backing up huge amounts of data regularly? Cat6a is designed to handle constant, heavy network use without breaking a sweat.
• High-Density Networks: In data centers or large IT closets, multiple cables are often bundled together. This can lead to more interference. Cat6a’s extra shielding helps reduce signal problems in these tight spaces.
• Future-Proofing Long-Term Projects:
  If you’re building a network that needs to last the next 10 to 15 years — and might one day support 10 Gbps traffic across long distances — Cat6a is a smart choice to avoid re-cabling down the line.

What Are the Downsides of Cat6a?

While Cat6a offers impressive benefits, it’s not always the best option for every business. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Thicker and Heavier: Cat6a cables are bulkier than Cat6, which can make them harder to work with. If you’re installing cables in tight walls, ceilings, or conduits, this can slow down your project.
• More Expensive: You’ll pay more for both the cable and the labor involved in installing Cat6a. The materials are more advanced, and installers may need more time and effort to get everything in place.
• Overkill for Some Businesses: If your network doesn’t require high-speed data across long distances — like in a small office or retail location — Cat6 usually offers more than enough speed and reliability.

Cat6 vs Cat6a

When choosing between Cat6 vs Cat6a, it all comes down to your business needs:

• For typical office environments, Cat6 is often the best balance of speed, reliability, and cost.
• If you’re dealing with large spaces, long cable runs, or massive amounts of data, Cat6a may be worth the investment.

And remember — even if you’re not using 10 Gbps speeds today, planning ahead can help you avoid expensive upgrades in the future. A little foresight now can mean big savings (and fewer headaches) later on.

How to Choose the Right Cable

Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:

If you’re planning a new network install or replacing old cabling, Cat6 gives you a lot of flexibility and helps “future-proof” your setup.

Why the Right Cable Matters

Your Ethernet cables are more than just wires — they’re the foundation of your network. Choosing the right type now can help you:

• Avoid slow connections
• Reduce dropped calls or frozen video
• Support better Wi-Fi performance
• Save money in the long run
• Handle future tech upgrades

At Tech Service Today, we’ve seen it all — from businesses struggling with outdated cabling to companies that thrive thanks to smart, modern infrastructure. That’s why we always recommend thinking ahead and choosing the cable that sets you up for success.

Which Should You Pick?

When it comes to Cat5 vs. Cat6, the answer is simple: Cat6 gives you better speed, more bandwidth, and a stronger connection. It’s the go-to choice for most growing businesses today.

If you’re deciding between Cat6 vs. Cat6a, ask yourself: Do you need super high speed over long distances, or is regular Cat6 enough? For most offices, Cat6 works perfectly. But if you’re wiring a large building or handling tons of data, Cat6a could be worth the extra investment.

Need Help With Network Cabling?

If you’re rolling out new technology across multiple locations, or just upgrading your current setup, Tech Service Today is here to help. We provide nationwide low-voltage cabling, including Cat6 and Cat6a installation, with flat-rate pricing and a dedicated account manager to keep things simple. Check out our Network Installation Services or contact us to talk about your next project.