Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Buying Ethernet Cables
When you’re setting up a wired internet connection, the type of Ethernet cable you choose matters. Many people think a cable is just a cable, but small mistakes during buying can lead to slow speeds, poor signal, or even future replacement costs. As someone who’s worked with cables in the field for years, I’ve seen it all, from offices using outdated Cat5 cables to homeowners buying flashy cords that don’t fit their needs.
Let’s walk through the five most common mistakes to avoid when buying Ethernet cables. Whether you’re wiring a home office or a whole building, this guide will help you make smart, lasting choices.
Buying the Wrong Category
This is by far the most common mistake. Ethernet cables come in categories like Cat5e, Cat6, Cat6a, and Cat7. Each one offers different speeds and bandwidths.
Cat5e is fine for basic tasks, but it’s old technology. If you’re streaming, gaming, or transferring large files, you’ll want at least Cat6. Cat6 can handle speeds up to 10 Gbps over short distances. It also has better shielding than Cat5e, which reduces signal noise.
Cat6a and Cat7 offer even better shielding and longer 10 Gbps support. These are great for future-proofing, especially in businesses or modern smart homes.
The key takeaway: Don’t just grab the cheapest one on the shelf. Match the category to your internet speed, your devices, and how you plan to use the connection.
Ignoring Cable Length and Signal Loss
Another big mistake is ignoring how far the cable needs to run. Ethernet works best under 100 meters, but not all cables are equal in how they maintain speed over distance.
Longer cables mean more chance for signal loss, especially with cheaper materials or low-shielded options. If you’re wiring through walls, ceilings, or long hallways, look for higher-quality cables with better shielding and thicker conductors.
Also, try not to buy a cable that’s much longer than needed. Excess slack can clutter your setup and make it harder to manage. Measure your space before buying, and add just a little extra for flexibility.
Choosing CCA Instead of Pure Copper
This is a mistake you won’t notice until your connection starts acting up. Some Ethernet cables are made with CCA, that’s Copper-Clad Aluminum. It looks like copper, but it’s not the same. CCA cables are cheaper to produce, which is why some brands use them. But they’re less reliable. They’re more prone to breakage, don’t conduct electricity as well, and can overheat under heavy load.
For any serious setup, especially if it’s permanent or carries Power over Ethernet (PoE), always go with 100% pure copper. It costs a bit more up front but saves you from troubleshooting bad connections later.
Look closely at product descriptions. Reputable suppliers like Monk Cables, clearly label their cables as pure copper.
Not Considering Shielding and Interference
Many people overlook cable shielding. That’s a problem, especially if your cable runs near power lines, fluorescent lights, or other electronics.
Shielding protects the cable from electromagnetic interference (EMI). This interference can reduce performance or cause dropped connections. If you live in a home with many electronics, or work in an office or industrial setting, shielded cables are recommended.
UTP (Unshielded Twisted Pair) is fine for short, open runs away from interference. But for walls, ceilings, or places near other wiring, go with STP (Shielded Twisted Pair). It provides that extra layer of protection your signal needs.
Also, don’t mix shielded and unshielded cables without planning. Your network performance may suffer if shielding is not grounded properly.
Overlooking Future Needs
Many people buy Ethernet cables based only on what they need today. But networks change. Internet speeds go up, more devices connect, and smart home tech continues to grow.
Choosing a cable that barely meets today’s needs could lead to rewiring in a year or two. That’s why many professionals recommend investing in at least Cat6a, especially for new installations or business use.
Think of Ethernet cable as a long-term infrastructure piece, like plumbing or electrical wiring. It’s better to install a slightly better cable now than to redo everything later.
Even if you’re not using 10 Gbps speeds now, your next internet upgrade might make it necessary. Planning ahead can save time, money, and frustration.
Final Thoughts
Buying Ethernet cables may seem simple, but it’s easy to get tripped up if you’re not careful. The wrong cable can limit your speed, reduce stability, or lead to costly replacements.
Let’s recap the top five mistakes:
Wrong Category: Always match your cable type to your speed and usage.
Ignoring Length: Signal loss adds up. Plan your runs and choose quality.
Choosing CCA: Stick to pure copper for safe, reliable connections.
Skipping Shielding: EMI is real. Get shielded cables where needed.
Not Planning Ahead: Think long-term and choose cables that support future growth.
Professional-grade cables don’t have to be confusing. Brands like Monk Cables offer well-built options that meet modern standards. Just remember, know your needs, check the specs, and never cut corners on something this important.
With the right Ethernet cable in place, your network will run smoother, faster, and more reliably for years to come.