If you’re setting up a network and need to run Ethernet cables, you’ve probably come across the terms Cat6 and Cat6a. But what’s the difference between them, and when should you choose the more expensive Cat6a cables over standard Cat6e?

Cat6 vs. Cat6a Cabling
Both Cat6 and Cat6a refer to types of twisted pair Ethernet cabling defined in the ANSI/TIA-568 cabling standards. The “Category” numbers indicate increasing performance capabilities.

Cat6e (the “e” stands for “enhanced”) cables are an improved version of Cat6 designed to reduce alien crosstalk – electromagnetic noise transferred between adjacent cables. They support gigabit Ethernet up to 328 feet and 10GBASE-T up to 180 feet.

Cat6a (the “a” means “augmented”) cables go a step further than Cat6e. They have even tighter twists and thicker jackets to limit crosstalk and system noise for frequencies up to 500 MHz. Cat6a supports 10GBASE-T up to 328 feet.

So in summary, Cat6e and Cat6a are both suited for gigabit and 10 gigabit Ethernet, but Cat6a provides a greater maximum bandwidth and can reliably handle 10GbE at longer distances.

When to Choose Cat6a
In most home and small office environments with basic networking needs, the less expensive Cat6e will likely meet your requirements just fine. But there are several scenarios where it makes sense to go with the more robust and future-proofed Cat6a:

1. Long Cable Runs
If you need to run any Ethernet cables longer than 180 feet, Cat6a gives you that extra distance capability for 10GbE up to 328 feet. Anything over 180 feet on Cat6e may not reliably support 10Gb speeds.

2. High Interference Environments
Areas with a high density of cables, networking equipment, machinery, etc. have more potential for electromagnetic interference (EMI) and crosstalk issues. Cat6a cabling is designed to be much more resistant to noise from surrounding sources.

3. Future Bandwidth Needs
While gigabit and 10GbE cover the majority of home/office uses today, bandwidth demands are always increasing. Cat6a’s higher performance ceiling of 500MHz gives you more headroom for future higher speed standards like 25G and 40G BASE-T Ethernet.

4. Mission Critical Networks
For networks handling critical operations, transactions, A/V multimedia, etc. you may want Cat6a’s more robust design to minimize downtime and performance issues.

5. New Building Wiring
When wiring for new construction or major renovations, choosing Cat6a can make the installation more future-proof and save the hassle of a re-wire down the road.

While Cat6a cable and components are typically 20-30% more expensive than Cat6e, the incremental cost may be worth it if you have demanding networking needs or want to max out capability for the long haul. For basic gigabit connections under 180 feet with no special requirements, however, Cat6e should provide reliable service.