When installing or upgrading an office network, the same question always arises: which cable category to choose — CAT5e, CAT6 or CAT6A? The decision may seem technical, but it has a direct impact on the speed, reliability and lifespan of your infrastructure. This guide explains the differences in plain English.
The three categories, without jargon
- CAT5e: supports Gigabit (1 Gbps). Enough for basic needs, but it's already the bare minimum nowadays.
- CAT6: Gigabit with room to spare and 10 Gbps over short distances. Good balance between cost and performance.
- CAT6A: 10 Gbps reliably up to 100 metres, with better interference immunity. The future-proof choice.
Speed and distance in practice
The big difference lies in 10 Gigabit. While CAT6 only guarantees this over short distances, CAT6A maintains it across the typical full length of an office. For most businesses installing from scratch today, CAT6A is the investment that avoids having to mess with the walls again in a few years' time.
The correct cost is the total cost
The cable accounts for only a small fraction of the cost of an installation — the bulk of the cost lies in the labour involved in laying the cable and making the terminations. Skipping out on the cable only to have to reinstall it later is the worst possible deal. That is why, for new installations, we recommend CAT6 as a minimum, and CAT6A wherever the budget allows.
And the certification?
Whatever the category, the installation must be certified: Each socket is tested using our own equipment and is issued with a report confirming its performance. Without certification, there is no guarantee that the cable will deliver what its category promises.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is CAT6A worth it for a small business?
In most cases, yes, in new installations. The difference in cost compared to CAT6 is small relative to the total cost of the work, and CAT6A prepares the network for 10 Gbps for many years.
Can I mix categories?
It is possible, but not ideal. The network is limited by its weakest link. If you are upgrading, it makes the most sense to standardise at least the main sections.
How long does a good wiring installation last?
A certified CAT6/CAT6A installation is designed to last for over a decade, keeping pace with multiple generations of switches and equipment.
Are you going to install or upgrade the cabling?
We provide certified structured cabling for businesses: Structured CAT6A cabling and fibre optic.
