I’m planning to wire my home network, but I’m unsure about whether to go with Cat 5e, Cat 6, or Cat 6a cables, and which type of connectors would be the best fit. Can you provide some guidance to help me make the best choice, especially considering network speeds and costs?
What level of internet bandwidth do you purchase from your local internet service provider?
My home network has a bandwidth of 100-300 Mbps.
According to your bandwidth situation, it is recommended to choose CAT5E cable because the maximum transmission rate of CAT5E cable is 1000Mbps, which can meet your bandwidth transmission needs. CAT5 has a transmission rate of 100Mbps, which is insufficient to support your network transmission rate. CAT6 cables have a maximum transmission rate of 1Gbps, and you don’t need to use CAT6 and above cables because even if the cable supports a network transmission rate of 1Gbps or above, it will not be possible with your current bandwidth. Under normal circumstances, CAT6 cables cost more than CAT5E cables, and CAT5E cables cost more than CAT5 cables, so it is recommended that you choose CAT5E cables.
As for the RJ45 plug, it is recommended that you choose a standard unshielded perforated plug, which can be compatible with CAT5E category cables while being more cost-effective. If you are not sure what plug to choose, I can recommend the following:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B088JWMJMT?ref=myi_title_dp
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07MM3FQ3F?ref=myi_title_dp
For your current situation, cat5e cables are enough. If you plan to upgrade your bandwidth in the future, you can choose cat6 cables.
CAT6 cables are more recommended for future-proofing needs.
Thank you for your suggestions. Considering the possibility of future home network upgrades, I have ultimately chosen Cat6 cable. 