CAT 5, CAT 6, CAT 7 and CAT 8: These are the differences

In this article we will show you what the differences are between CAT 5, CAT 6, CAT 7 and CAT 8 network cables. In general, these terms describe the performance classes of network cables. But the differences are not only in the transmission rate.

CAT 5: The most common cable

CAT 5 cables are found in the vast majority of installations and are therefore considered standard.

• CAT-5 cables achieve signal rates of up to 100 MHz and are therefore suitable for gigabit operation.

• They are still laid in professional environments, although not as frequently as CAT 6 or CAT 7.

• For home users, CAT 5 cables are perfectly adequate in the vast majority of situations.

CAT 6: The all-rounder

CAT 6 category cables are often used, especially in the professional sector

• CAT-6 cables reach operating frequencies of up to 250 MHz. However, their transmission speed decreases the longer the cable.

• CAT-6 category cables are used throughout the public network infrastructure.

• The CAT-6a standard even reaches operating frequencies of up to 500 MHz and is thus suitable for 10 Gigabit Ethernet.

• To meet the standard, the cable must be specially protected against external influences such as spurious signals or noise.

CAT 7: The ultimate for the home

The CAT 7 standard is the fastest and best-shielded standard among network cables

• CAT-7 cables reach an operating frequency of up to 600 MHz. The CAT-7a subcategory even manages up to 1,000 MHz.

• All cables in the CAT-7 category have 4 separately shielded wire pairs in an overall shield. This means that virtually no spurious signals reach the cable.

• There are two different standardised connector types for CAT-7 class network cables: RJ45 and GG45 connectors. RJ45 is standard for most network cables, but you cannot use the high bandwidth of Cat 7 with this connector type. When buying a Cat 7 cable, it is therefore recommended to use GG45 connectors, which are specifically designed for CAT 7 cables.

• At first glance, there is hardly any difference between the two connector types. However, there is one crucial difference: RJ45.plugs have eight contacts, GG45 plugs have twelve. In addition, unlike with RJ45, the contacts are not only on the bottom of the plug, but are also on the top.

CAT 8: For professional use

CAT 8 cables are used almost exclusively in the professional sector. For home users they are too expensive and not really worthwhile

• CAT 8 achieves twice the operating frequencies of CAT 7, but in return the cables can only be used over short distances.

• This standard is a twisted pair cable that is completely shielded. Interference doesn’t stand a chance here.

• There are two subcategories of CAT 8 cables, namely 8.1 and 8.2. CAT 8.1 is compatible with normal Ethernet plugs. CAT 8.2 uses a connector specially designed for professional use.