Networking Cables
Category 5e Network Patch Cables, Category 6 Network Patch Cables, Category 7 Network Patch Cables, Category 8 Network Patch Cables
Buy Networking Cables online at cables.com. Datacomm Cables offers a wide range of network cables including Cat5, Cat6, Cat7, Cat8, DSL Modem Cables, Ethernet Crossover Cables and more. Our network patch cables are the industry standard for networking. The newer standard ethernet cables offer up to twice the performance of regular networking cables and are gigabit rated. All Category 6 cables will work with POE (Power over Ethernet) Devices. No special cabling is needed.
Our Cat6 cables offer a reliable and secure connection between your office or home network device and the internet.
Network Cables and Connectors
There is nothing worse than a slow internet connection. With a hi-speed, quality network cable from Datacomm Cables, you can be assured of a lighting fast connection. Our network cables are excellent for:
- Computers
- Laptops
- Routers
- Modems
- Printers
- Game Consoles
- Network Devices, such as a Switch.
So, when do you need a network cable?
You need one to connect to a wired Ethernet Network to connect to your local network at work, or if you use the internet at home. These are some examples of items that use a standard cable with RJ45 connectors on each end. A direct ethernet connection via a network cable is typically faster than a wireless connection to your router.
Cat5 vs Cat6
What is the difference between Cat5e is and Cat6?
The only difference is the bandwidth. Cat5e has a bandwidth up to 350Mhz and Cat6 is up to 600Mhz. Otherwise the connector is the same, and they can be plugged into the same ports. They both are the same quality.
What is the significance of ethernet cables in different colors?
Often network cable vendors assign colors to help identify the connection type and purpose, or to distinguish their cables and connections from other vendors.
Ethernet Cable Colors and Their Purpose
The colors of Cat5, Cat5e, Cat6 and Cat6a ethernet cables represent a specific application or system such as network connectivity or equipment connections. This is not to be confused with the color coding of the twisted internal wires contained within each CAT cable. The color of the outer jacket has nothing to do with the cable function itself, it simply highlights the purpose of connection.
Common Ethernet Color Coding Assignments
Often vendors assign specific colors to help identify the connection type and what it is being used for, or to distinguish their connection from other vendors. The colors aid with cable management and while there is no industry standard, below is an example of coloring coding some businesses may use:
- Blue - Network Connectivity
- Yellow - Camera
- White - Security
- Grey - Interconnects/Jumpers
- Black - Equipment/Workstation
- Red - Phones/Emergency Systems
Cable color management can also be used to differentiate between security levels or networks such as DMZs, production LANs, management LANs and Test LANs. Since some companies or vendors have their own labeling preferences, it’s recommended to identify the colors and uses from the most current schematic available.
Ethernet Cable Color Coding by Year
Colored cables can also be used to indicate the age of the wiring installed. Some vendors identify the year work was performed by choosing a specific color. This allows customers and technicians to quickly identify the age of their installed cabling and when the work was performed. Below is an example of network cable color coding by year installed:
- Purple - 2017
- Blue - 2018
- Yellow - 2019
Commercial Cable Labeling Standards
Commercial applications, especially data centers, should check proper building standards such as ANSI/TIA-606-B, Administration Standard for the Telecommunications Infrastructure of Commercial Buildings. This is a general standard for cable labeling on all types of premises. However, local building codes will supersede the 606B standard and should be checked before running cables.
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If you need bulk pricing or have questions, please call us in New York at (631) 617-5190 or toll-free at (800) 372-3725.
"I order all of my networking cables from cables.com. Fast, affordable and the highest quality. They have the largest selection of ethernet cables and power cords online. Keep up the good work!" - Fred J. - Engineer