Networking
Cat6 vs Cat5e vs Fibre: Which Network Cable Should You Use?
Short answer
Cat6 is the sensible default for new offices and homes: it supports gigabit speeds comfortably, handles PoE for cameras and access points, and gives room to grow. Cat5e still works for gigabit on short runs. Use fibre between buildings or for long backbone runs, since copper is limited to about 100 metres per run.
Comparison
| Cat5e | Cat6 | Fibre | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Typical speed | 1 Gbps | 1 Gbps (10 Gbps over short runs) | 10 Gbps and far beyond |
| Max run | 100 m | 100 m | Hundreds of metres to kilometres |
| Cost | Low | Moderate | Higher (cable and equipment) |
| Interference | Susceptible | Better | Immune to electrical interference |
| Best for | Small, short runs | Most new installs | Between buildings, long runs, backbones |
Cable quality matters
- Use solid copper (not copper-clad aluminium) for installed runs.
- Keep data cables apart from mains cables.
- Use outdoor-rated cable outdoors and protect it from surges.
- Terminate and test every run.
Plan for the future
The cable in the wall is the hardest thing to change, so install Cat6 and good patch panels once. See structured cabling and our networking service.
Common questions
Is Cat6 worth the extra cost over Cat5e?
Usually yes for new installs, since the extra cost is small compared with labour.
How far can a network cable run?
Up to 100 metres for copper Ethernet. Use fibre or switches beyond that.
Do I need fibre in an office?
Often not inside a single floor, but it helps between buildings or floors.