The Difference Between Ethernet and LAN Cables for Your Router

When setting up a home network, you’ll need to use either an Ethernet cable or a LAN cable to connect your devices to the router. Ethernet and LAN cables are both types of twisted-pair cables, but they have different speeds and capabilities. In this article, we’ll discuss the key differences between Ethernet and LAN cables so that you can make an informed decision about which type of cable to use for your home network.

Types of Ethernet Cables

There are several different types of Ethernet cables, each with its own speed and capabilities. The most common type of Ethernet cable is Cat5e, which supports speeds of up to 100 Mbps. Cat6 cables support speeds of up to 1 Gigabit per second (Gbps), while Cat6a cables support speeds of up to 10 Gbps.

Types of LAN Cables

LAN cables are also known as patch cables or crossover cables. They are used to connect two computers or devices directly to each other. LAN cables are typically shorter than Ethernet cables and have different connectors on each end.

Speed and Distance Limitations

Ethernet cables can transmit data over longer distances than LAN cables. Cat5e cables can transmit data over distances of up to 100 meters, while Cat6 cables can transmit data over distances of up to 70 meters. Cat6a cables can transmit data over distances of up to 55 meters.

Cost of Ethernet Cables vs. LAN Cables

Ethernet cables are typically more expensive than LAN cables. However, the cost of Ethernet cables has been decreasing in recent years.

Ethernet cables and LAN cables are both good choices for connecting devices to a router. However, there are some key differences between the two types of cables. Ethernet cables are faster and can transmit data over longer distances than LAN cables. However, Ethernet cables are also more expensive than LAN cables. When choosing between the two types of cables, you should consider your speed and distance requirements as well as your budget.