Cat 5e Ethernet Cables

Network Cable Cat 5e with and without shielding

Here on the page, you will find our selection of network cables Cat 5e, which you can find both with and without shielding, and in various lengths.

Network cables are used, for example, to obtain a wired connection to the internet, and many people still prefer it, as it can reduce signal loss compared to WiFi.

A wired connection to the internet can be a good solution for a stationary computer that is not moved very often.

Network Cable Cat 5e covers the needs of most people and if you want a fast and stable internet connection, this network cable could be the solution.

If you are in doubt about what to look for when finding your network cable Cat 5e, you can read below, where we have gathered some information that can help you choose the right network cable for your needs.

3 things you should consider before buying Network Cable Cat 5e

You can find many different network cables in Cat 5e, and therefore it can also quickly become a bit confusing to navigate the many options.

Therefore, you can find our suggestions for 3 things you should consider before purchasing network cable Cat 5e below.

#1 - Network Cable Cat 5e with or without connectors

When you are looking for a Network Cable Cat 5e, you can consider whether you want the cable to have pre-installed connectors or if you prefer to install the connectors yourself on the cable.

The connectors used for network cables are called RJ45 connectors, and it is possible to find cables in specific lengths with pre-installed connectors, but if you want to choose the exact length for your network cable, you can opt to install the connectors yourself after measuring the cable.

A Network Cable without connectors is often available in larger lengths, and here you can simply measure the desired length and then install RJ45 connectors at each end of the cable.

However, installing the connectors yourself requires a bit more time and special tools, a crimping tool, and if you want to use your cable immediately, you might prefer to choose a network cable with pre-installed connectors.

#2 - Shielded or unshielded Network Cable Cat 5e

Another thing you should consider is whether you need a shielded or unshielded Network Cable Cat 5e.

When several cables are closely positioned, for example, in a cable tray, you may experience interference between the cables, which can disturb and cause signal drops.

To avoid this, you might consider purchasing a shielded cable that has built-in metal shielding within the cable to reduce the effects of interference.

If the cable is going to be installed alone, for example, in the attic or along a floor, it may not need to be shielded, and in this case, you can choose an unshielded cable.

If you already know that you need a shielded cable, you should know that there are several types of shielding for Cat 5e network cables.

The different types of shielding are denoted with a letter, a hyphen, and 3 letters:

• F-UTP - Outer foil shield and no inner shield, single shielded cable
• S-FTP - Outer braided shield and inner foil shield, double shielded cable
• U-UTP - Unshielded cable
• U-FTP - No outer shield and inner foil shield, single shielded cable
• U-STP - No outer shield and inner braided shield, single shielded cable
• S-UTP - Outer braided shield and no inner shield, single shielded cable
• F-FTP - Outer foil shield and inner foil shield, double shielded cable
• F-STP - Outer foil shield and inner braided shield, double shielded cable
• S-STP - Outer braided shield and inner braided shield, double shielded cable

The letter before the hyphen indicates whether there is an outer shield, which is a shield that encompasses the conductors inside the cable as a whole.

The first letter after the hyphen indicates whether there is a shield around each individual conductor, and TP indicates that the conductors are so-called "Twisted pairs", which is a typical designation for network cables.

U always indicates that there is no shielding, meaning that U-UTP is a completely unshielded cable, whereas U-FTP and U-STP indicate there is no outer shield, but only a shield around each of the twisted pairs of conductors.

The designation F always indicates that we are talking about shielding in the form of a piece of foil, and S indicates that the shielding is a form of woven metal mesh.

A cable is double-shielded if there is an F or an S on either side of the hyphen.

#3 - Properties of Network Cable Cat 5e

It is possible to find Cat 5e network cables with various properties that can make it easier for you to install, manage or fit.

Some models have angled connectors, which means that the connectors are easier to find space for, even when space is tight, and at the same time, you can avoid bending or breaking the cable too much, risking damaging the conductors inside the cable.

It is also possible to choose a cable where one connector is angled and the other is a standard connector.

It is also possible to find flat network cables that can be easier to adapt around corners or similar.

If you need the cable for outdoor use, it is important that you find a network cable that can withstand wind, weather, and UV radiation from the sun.

Outdoor network cables in Cat 5e are often sturdier and more rigid than indoor cables, which means they can better withstand nature's impacts.