To begin with is what an Ethernet cable is. One can refer to them as the cables that enable the electronic devices to be connected to a network. That network provides internet access and also helps to have an interaction with network resources that are shared. It helps to receive internet access manually, rather than getting it wirelessly. There are different categories of them. The most popular ones are Cat5e, Cat6, Cat7, and Cat8 cables.

Although, one can broadly divide them into round Ethernet cables and flat Ethernet cable. The types, usage as well as importance of the Ethernet cables are described below.

Types of Ethernet cables

Following are the types of Ethernet cables-

1. Patch cables-These cables are also known as straight-through cables and are used to connect to computers and routers.

2. Cross-over cables- People generally use this cable to connect two similar devices. Such as two computers.

3. Solid cables- They provide a better connection and service. Thus, they are used in business networks. Additionally, they are cheaper and more affordable.

4. Stranded cables- They are best suited for residential purposes. This is because these cables are stronger and not easily breakable.

5. Flat Ethernet cable- They have twisted copper wires arranged side-by-side in a flat form. They are easily mobile and create lesser noise while put to work.

6. Round Ethernet cables- They have the copper wires arranged in a round shape. Additionally, they have a protective layer from heat and other external elements.

Categories of Ethernet cables

The categories of the Ethernet cables are termed as Cat. Along with the change in their standards, the categories keep changing too. The different categories of Ethernet cables are listed as follows-

1. Cat8- These are the expensive ones. Enterprise networks and data networks use ethernet cable cat 8.

2. Cat7- People recommend these cables because of their ability to eradicate crosstalk, improving the resistance towards electrical noises, and having a better shield.

3. Cat6- Being stiff, these wires are difficult to bend at the corners. But, they have thin wires that facilitate them with the signals to the ratio of noise.

4. Cat6a- These are the better forms of Cat6 cables. Their bandwidth is double that of the Cat6 cables.

5. Cat5- These are the ones that people least recommend to use as it allows a speed of just 100 Mbps.

6. Cat5e- These are the better versions of Cat5 cables. They allow a speed better than that of the Cat5 cables.

Importance of Ethernet cables

Ethernet cables are the manual ways of getting access to the network. Thus, they ensure a better and stronger connection. It is often noted that the connection gets slower or interrupted due to various factors. But, as the devices get manually connected, the distance or any such barrier fails to interrupt the connection strength. One can incorporate them into any type of device.

Moreover, in the technology of the internet, Ethernet cables are recognized as an international standard. Undoubtedly, these are more reliable ones in providing internet connection.