Ethernet cables can have a maximum output based on their specifications and intended use.
Ethernet cables can have a maximum output based on their specifications and intended use.
CAT5 supports speeds up to 100Mbps, CAT5e reaches about 1Gbps over 100 meters and is verified for 100Mbps. CAT6 offers up to 10Gbps over certain distances and also meets 1Gbps standards. Higher grades such as CAT6a and CAT7 provide speeds exceeding 10Gbps.
The actual performance numbers are open to discussion regarding acceptable limits, yet this provides an overview of Cat cable types and their capabilities across various groups. The chart omits the comparison between UTP and STP, which aids in maintaining signal quality in environments with electrical interference and reduces unwanted signal overlap.