A LAN cable (Network Cable) is a type of communication medium used to transmit data within a Local Area Network (LAN) or other network environments. It connects computers, switches, routers, servers, and various network devices to enable high-speed transmission of data, voice, and video.The most common type is Twisted Pair Cable, such as Cat5e, Cat6, Cat6a, etc.
Common Types of LAN Cables
LAN cables are classified based on performance level, shielding structure, and transmission speed. The most common categories include:
Cat5e
Supports up to 1Gbps; suitable for basic home or office networks.
Cat6
Supports up to 10Gbps over shorter distances; widely used for enterprise applications.
Cat6A
Enhanced version of Cat6 with improved shielding and longer 10Gbps support; ideal for data centers.
Cat7 / Cat8
High-performance cables with superior shielding, used for advanced, high-speed environments such as server rooms and professional AV systems.
Each category is designed with different bandwidth, frequency, and noise-resistance capabilities, helping users choose the right solution according to network requirements.
Different categories offer different bandwidths and data rates
Category | Max Bandwidth | Max Speed | Typical Applications |
Cat5e | 100 MHz | 1 Gbps | Home networks, basic offices |
Cat6 | 250 MHz | 1 Gbps / up to 10G at 55m | Enterprise networks |
Cat6a | 500 MHz | 10 Gbps | Data centers, structured cabling |
Cat7 | 600 MHz | 10 Gbps | High-shielding environments, server rooms and professional AV systems |
Cat8 | 2000 MHz | 25G / 40G | Data centers, short-distance high-speed links |
By Shielding Type
Type | Name | Features | Typical Use |
UTP | Unshielded Twisted Pair | Low cost, easy installation | Home & office |
FTP | Foiled Twisted Pair | Better anti-interference | Buildings, server rooms |
STP | Shielded Twisted Pair | Strongest noise protection | Industrial, medical, high-EMI areas |
SFTP | Foil + Braided Shield | High performance, stable | High-end enterprise, data centers |
Main Applications of Network Cables
● LAN cables are used wherever a fast and secure wired network connection is needed. Key application scenarios include:
● Home networks for stable Internet access and smart devices
● Office networks connecting PCs, VoIP phones, printers, etc.
● Enterprise IT systems requiring high-reliability data transmission
● Data centers with high-bandwidth and low-latency demands
● CCTV and security monitoring systems
● Industrial automation and IoT environments
● Wired connections provide enhanced performance compared to Wi-Fi, making network cables essential for mission-critical tasks.
Difference Between Indoor and Outdoor Network Cables
Indoor and outdoor LAN cables are designed differently to match their environments:
Indoor LAN Cables
● Typically made with PVC jackets
● More flexible and easier to install
● Suitable for home, office, and indoor wiring ducts
● Not designed to resist harsh weather or sunlight
Outdoor LAN Cables
● Made with UV-resistant, waterproof PE jackets
● Can withstand rain, sunlight, temperature changes, and physical stress
● Some models include gel-filled or armored structures for additional protection
● Suitable for building-to-building connections, outdoor CCTV systems, and harsh environments
● Choosing the correct cable ensures long-term performance, safety, and reliability.
Item | Indoor Cable | Outdoor Cable |
Jacket Material | PVC / LSZH | PE / HDPE (UV-resistant) |
Waterproof | Basic | Strong waterproofing (gel-filled available) |
UV Resistance | No | Yes |
Tensile Strength | Medium | High; some include steel wire |
Shielding | Optional UTP/FTP | Often FTP or higher shielding |
Typical Location | Indoor walls, offices, server rooms | Outdoors, between buildings, CCTV poles |
Lifespan | 5–10 years | 10–20 years |
Outdoor cables are designed to survive harsh environments—they are UV-proof, waterproof, anti-corrosion, and durable, making them suitable for long-distance or outdoor exposure.
Why Choose Sopto LAN Cables?
Sopto provides a complete range of high-quality LAN cables from Cat5e to Cat8, offering:
● Stable and high-speed performance
● 100% tested quality assurance
● Indoor & outdoor models available
● Customized lengths & packaging
● Cost-effective solutions for ISP, enterprise, and data center deployments
● Upgrade your network with reliable, high-performance cabling.
Inquiry: [email protected]
WhatsApp: https://wa.me/+8618688759008
Tags : LAN cable, Network Cable, Cat6, Cat7, Cat8, EthernetCable, CablingSolutions, UTP
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