Do you require a stable internet connection when using the internet? Or do you need to connect multiple devices in different locations within your workplace or home where Wi-Fi signals cannot reach? In these cases, wired connection, known as “Ethernet” or “LAN,” becomes the most suitable and appropriate option as it surpasses Wi-Fi in terms of connection stability, as explained in the article outlining the differences between using the internet via Wi-Fi and cable. However, using Ethernet is not as easy as some may think. It is not just about connecting a cable and that’s it! There are considerations to take into account to ensure a stable and fast connection, including the type and length of the Ethernet cable. And the most important question is: Does the length of the Ethernet cable affect the speed or quality of the service as a whole? In this article, we will answer this question in detail.
It is known that the Ethernet cable enables you to connect directly to the internet or to the local LAN network of the router. It consists of copper wires that transmit data in the form of electrical signals. Since the Ethernet cable is made of copper, the electrical signals passing through it weaken due to resistance. As a result, all Ethernet cables are limited in length. This means that if you use an Ethernet cable longer than the designed range, you will notice a decrease in internet speed, and in some cases, a complete loss of connection.
As you likely know, Ethernet cables are divided into several categories, each with its own capabilities and capacities, prioritizing data transfer speed. For example, a CAT-5 cable can provide data transfer speeds of up to 100 megabits per second, while a CAT-5e can offer speeds of up to 1000 megabits per second.
All Ethernet cables, regardless of their type and capabilities, have the same maximum cable length, estimated at 100 meters. This is logical because the higher categories of Ethernet provide stronger specifications, such as better insulation to reduce signal interference, thus maintaining speed stability. The thickness of the copper wires also plays a role in reducing resistance. Therefore, higher categories of Ethernet cables contain thicker or less copper wires.
Let’s highlight three categories that are exceptions to the length limit issue: CAT-6, CAT-7a, and CAT-8. Generally, you can benefit from CAT-6, as CAT-7a is manufactured according to specific standards, making it unlikely that an ordinary user would need it, while CAT-8 is used in data centers and with units that send massive amounts of data.
While CAT-6 can provide speeds of up to 1 gigabit per second at a length of 100 meters, it can provide speeds of up to 10 gigabits per second at lengths of 37-55 meters (121-180 feet), depending on the intensity of electromagnetic signal interference. For CAT-7a, it can provide speeds of up to 50Gbps at a length of 50 meters, dropping to 10Gbps at 100 meters. CAT-8, on the other hand, has a maximum length of only 30 meters and speeds of up to 40Gbps.
There is one last thing to consider regarding the length of the Ethernet cable, and that is the “channel length,” which refers to the full length between the device (computer, TV, etc.) and the router, switch, or hub. So if you are connecting the cable between the device and the router directly, for example, you cannot exceed the total length, especially when using extenders to lengthen the overall distance.
Read also: Things to know before buying a new internet cable
Is it possible to exceed the limits of the Ethernet cable length?
All Ethernet cables are limited to a maximum length of 100 meters, but that does not mean limiting the size of the network. You can use a switch to boost the signal, allowing you to transfer data over longer distances. You can also use Ethernet to fiber adapters. Fiber optics rely on glass wires and light to transmit the signal, being less prone to signal deterioration or weakening compared to copper wires, making them reliable for transmitting signals over longer distances.
While Ethernet cables have a maximum length limit, this should not be a cause for concern for the average user as they typically do not need more than 10 to 20 meters. However, if you have multiple devices and need to pass cables over longer distances, it is essential to consider the maximum length limit to avoid performance-related issues.
