Cat5e vs Cat6 vs Cat6a: How to Choose the Right Network Cable for Your Business
When planning a business network upgrade, choosing the right ethernet cable, Cat5e, Cat6, or Cat6a can directly impact your performance, scalability, and long-term IT costs. This guide breaks down the differences, use cases, and which cable makes the most sense based on your current needs and future growth.
| Cable Type | Max Speed | Distance Limit | Shielding | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CAT5e | 1Gbps | 100m | Unshielded | Small networks, basic internet |
| CAT6 | 10 Gbps (up to 55m) | 100m (1 Gbps) | Partial Shielding | Offices with moderate data use |
| CAT6a | 10 Gbps | 100m | Fully Shieleded | High-performance, future- proofing |
A More Practical Way to Think About Cabling
CAT5e
Tends to work well in smaller or more stable spaces where technology needs are predictable and growth is limited. In these environments, CAT5e can continue to support daily operations without issue.
CAT6
Often chosen when a business needs more breathing room. It supports higher device counts and heavier usage, making it a solid choice for growing offices or spaces that rely more heavily on Wi-Fi and connected systems.
CAT 6a
Usually selected when long-term planning is the priority. It’s built for environments with higher data demands and ongoing expansion, where minimizing future rework is just as important as current performance.
What Should Guide the Choice?
1. How many devices are connected today?
2. How fast is your business growing?
3. Are you planning new systems soon?
4. Will upgrades be disruptive if done later?
Most Cabling Issues Come from Poor Planning
Choosing the right category of cable isn't just about performance. It's about understanding how your space will be used and how often it may change. Even a technically superior cable can underperform if it’s installed without foresight. A well-planned Cat6 installation, for example, often outperforms a higher-rated cable when matched to real-world use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Cat5e is still functional for small businesses with basic internet usage, but it may limit future speed upgrades or high-bandwidth needs like VoIP or video conferencing.
It’s possible, but not recommended. The network will only perform to the lowest-rated cable, which could create bottlenecks and troubleshooting issues.
If your business relies on high-speed data, cloud applications, or plans to scale fast, Cat6a offers more long-term value, even if it costs more upfront.
Need some guidance on your network cabling project? Our BICSI-certified pros are standing by to help. Click the button below to get started!