As is the case with most technologies, newer cables typically support higher bandwidths and therefore increased download speeds and faster connections. A general rule of thumb is that higher numbers represent faster speeds and higher frequencies, measured in megahertz (MHz). “Cat” simply stands for “category.” The number that follows indicates the specification version supported by the cable.

When you start looking at specific Ethernet cables to match your needs, you’ll quickly notice that they’re divided by “Cat” numbers. On its own, a fast Ethernet cable won’t make a big difference, but a good cable can work together with other high-end network devices to ensure that your connection is as strong as possible. They can also provide better shielding, which can help protect your data while it’s in transit. However, if you are looking for a replacement cable, it’s a good idea to choose one of the more recent versions to take advantage of both speeds and future-proof your setup. If that’s not the case and you only surf the internet’s shallow waters, you may not notice as much difference. If your subscription only supports 50Mbps downloads, purchasing a 10Gbps Ethernet cable could be overkill.Īlso, if you frequently move big files between computers or stream extremely high-bandwidth video, a better Ethernet cable can make a huge difference. Doing so will give you a starting idea of what you’ll need in terms of wired connectivity. If you don’t know your internet subscription’s actual speed, connect your PC directly to the modem and load this speed test. Fitbit Versa 3īest home internet deals for January 2023: AT&T, Spectrum, Optimum and more

Ethernet cable for macbook air walmart