When you have to connect devices to the network at a distance that is longer, there are two alternatives. An extended ethernet cable or making use of wireless networks. When using wireless network, it's often easier to connect devices at a greater distance, however, if speed or latency is crucial, it is recommended to connect with longer Ethernet cables.

The issue when wireless networks travel the distance of a greater distance, is that speed of the network decreases and the latency will rise. When using Ethernet cables, there is no need for this issue. Ethernet cables with longer lengths can reach an extended length of as long as 100 metres (328 feet) however, more on this in the future.

The most frequently asked inquiry can be "Are longer Ethernet cables more efficient?". In the end, there is there isn't. If you're using a top-quality network cable and it's long enough, the length of the Ethernet cable won't affect the speed of your network.

In this article, we're going to look at the length of an Ethernet cable. We'll also discuss why length doesn't matter , and what ethernet cable with the longest length need to buy.

What is the max length Ethernet Cable?

We'll begin with the basics: what is the maximum length of an Ethernet cable? The maximum length of a single Ethernet cable is 295ft (90m). The total length from one device to another, is the equivalent of 328 feet (100m).

If we're discussing the maximum length of an Ethernet cable it is necessary to distinguish two aspects separate the physical cable length and the length of the channel. The length of the channel refers to the distance between one network device powered by electricity (for instance, network switches) to another network device (for instance, a computer). The longest distance between those two devices is 328 feet (100m).

For long ethernet cables, there are requirements.

It is possible to reach these maximum lengths with no loss of speed by making sure you utilize the correct ethernet cables. Do not buy cheaper CCA (Copper Coated Aluminum) cables, but instead use the solid copper Ethernet cables.

Also, ensure that the gauge of conductor (wire dimension) can be found between the 22-24 AWG. The larger the gauge is, the smaller its diameter. Ethernet cables that have thin wires may be easier to put in, yet they they also restrict the length to a certain extent and are more vulnerable to being damaged.

Cat6 Max Length

The maximum length of an Ethernet cable is for each category exactly the same. It doesn't matter whether you are using Cat5e, Cat6, Cat6a or Cat6a. All Ethernet cables are similar length limits, which is 328ft (100m). However, there is a difference it is the speed at which they are able to achieve.

If we examine the Cat6 max length , you will notice two lengths. Cat6 cables can support 10Gbps over an extended distance of up to 180 feet (55m). If you go over this limit, then speed will decrease down to one Gbps.

What's the Reason There's a Limit?

In contrast to fiber, which is able to transmit and sustain a signal for a long distance of about 60 miles. Ethernet cable can be less reliable due to electrical signals diminishing over long distances.

This is particularly relevant when extremely thin wires are employed for example, such as used in Ethernet cable.

The more that the electric signal moved to the limit, the more sensitive information it transmits can become, which could result in degrading.

It's tempting to utilize fiber in your network at home, however for a lot of people, it's likely that you'll never get to the 100-meter limit of the standard Ethernet. Additionally, fiber is far too much and would prove to be quite costly.

Are Longer Ethernet Cable Slower?

Let's say that we have an Ethernet cable of 10 meters, and another of 20 meters. Which is the faster one? The network package needs to travel for a shorter distance using the 10m cable and therefore should be more efficient, isn't it?

In theory it is true. However, you won't be able to tell the difference in any way. It doesn't matter if are using an ethernet cable with 10-meter or even 90-meter. The longer ethernet cables will not be slower than shorter cables.

It is believed that electrical signals move two thirds in the rate of light across your internet cable. It will take 0.00000005 seconds to traverse 10m of cable and 0.00000010 seconds to traverse 20m of Ethernet cable. You won't even notice the differences in any way.

The main factor that can affect the speed of the network connection is the noise. The longer ethernet cables are more susceptible to noise from the outside of of the cable. Noise can slow down the performance of your Ethernet cable. The solution to this problem can be to utilize shielded Ethernet cables.

How do you measure the length of the Cable

When you are evaluating how long the Ethernet cable to determine whether you're approaching the 100-meter limit, it's important to note that this is only for only one cable.

There is no limit to a distance of 100 meters between your router and the gadget you want to connect to.

Here are some different methods you can determine the distance of an Ethernet cable Some are more efficient than others.

Tape Measure

Although a tape measure could be useful to take shorter lengths of cable it's not a good idea for anything more than 10 meters.

You'll need access to the entire length of cable to accurately measure it and you should also have an instrument that is in fact long enough.

Footage Markings

The bulk reels Ethernet cable will feature footage markings on the exterior shielding.

This is fine if you are just beginning the process of putting together a new reel because these numbers are meant to let that you know the amount of cabling is still within the package.

To measure the length of the cable, you'd have be aware of the numbers at the other side of the cable. be certain that there isn't any cut during the course.

Similar to using tape measures It is also possible to determine the length of a cable with this method however it's not advised.

Pre-made Ethernet Cable

If you prefer not to to build the Ethernet cable and would prefer the convenience of buying them already made The distance of your cable should be indicated in the description.

While you can determine how long the cable right from the start, purchasing pre-made cables may prove to be expensive when as compared to creating your own, particularly in the case of multiple cables of different lengths.

Cable Tester

If you're looking for the most simple method and best results, you can use the network testing tool to gauge the distance of an length of Ethernet cable.

Beyond just taking measurements of the length the cable, these powerful tools come with other features that are useful, such as certification of the cable, informing you the speed of the length of the cable, and being able to save results to be exported for records.

Is it possible to extend an Ethernet Cable be extended?

There is a way to increase the range of Ethernet cable, it only requires a little bit of additional equipment.

Don't forget that you shouldn't go over the 100-meter distance for one cable run However, you can put the switch for network connections on the other side to increase the total reach.

The switch doesn't have to be close to either the router , or the device.

So long as the cable connecting the router and the switch as well as another cable connecting the device and the switch are not more than 100 meters each, both the devices and router will be capable of communicating with each the other.

There is a possibility of purchasing smaller Ethernet extenders rather than the network switch. However it is suggested to use them only for a short period of time and should not be considered an all-time solution.

If you are looking to extend your Ethernet connection past 100m, my recommendation is to buy the basic Ethernet switch since it will accomplish the task flawlessly while being quite affordable to purchase.