Cat6, short for Category 6, is a standard Ethernet cable designed for gigabit and multi-gigabit Ethernet networks.
Key Features:
- Speed and Distance: Cat6 supports up to 1 Gbps over 100 meters and 10 Gbps for shorter runs of up to 55 meters.
- Bandwidth: Cat6 offers a bandwidth of 250 MHz, sufficient for most home and small business setups.
- Construction: It features tightly twisted pairs to minimize crosstalk and interference.
- Applications: Cat6 is widely used in residential homes and small businesses, where cable runs are relatively short, and speeds of up to 1 Gbps are adequate. It’s also a cost-effective option for upgrading older networks.
- Limitations: While Cat6 can handle 10 Gbps speeds, it’s not ideal for longer cable runs, as performance significantly drops beyond 55 meters at higher speeds.
Read also: Cat6 vs. Cat6A: Key Differences Explained