 What's the difference between Cat5e cable and Cat7 cable? Comparing Cat5e cable and Cat7 network cable is a big jump in performance, cost, and installation practices. Generally, clients and designers compare similar network cabling systems such as Cat5e versus Cat6, or Cat6 versus Cat6a, and then Cat6a versus Cat7. However, when modernizing a building or future-proofing your network, sometimes the best option is the highest grade possible to last you for the longest tenancy time. Therefore, we can compare Cat5e which is the starting point of structured cabling to Cat7 network cabling, which is generally the highest grade of data cabling found within a commercial space. Cat8 cabling, which is the highest modern grade is generally only found in data centers and installed over short distances. Is Cat7 better than Cat5e? Each higher numbered grade is a step up in performance than the previous grade. These grades are Cat5e, Cat6, Cat6a, Cat7, Cat8. Therefore, Cat7 cable is considered better in many ways than Cat5e cabling, such as, in terms of performance and transmission capabilities. Cat7 cabling offers higher bandwidth and faster data transmission speeds compared to Cat5e and Cat6 Ethernet cables. It is designed to support data rates of up to 10 gigabits per second, 10 gigabits per second, over a distance of 100 meters. However, generally, we have an allowance of 90 meters for the permanent link and 5 meters patch leads at each end as an option. Cat5e by comparison only offers 1 gigabit transmission capabilities. Thus, Cat7 over 90 meters only offers a similar transmission speed to Cat6a. However, independent tests have shown capabilities of 40 gigabit at 50 meters and 100 gigabits at 15 meters. However, this required certain specific hardware configurations and is thus not a set standard. Cat7 cables have stricter specifications for cross-dark and noise reduction. Thus, resulting in improved signal quality and less interference. Therefore, regardless of speed requirements, Cat7 cables will have fewer interference issues, especially in an electrically noisy environment. Can I use Cat7 instead of Cat5e? As mentioned above, all structured cabling options can be used and will depend on your transmission requirements and budget mainly. However, there are concerns and issues when trying to combine two separate systems such as Cat7 and Cat5e and Cat7 and Cat6a. Different systems wouldn't be used together but we get asked a lot of the time where the certain parts of their cabling network can be upgraded. For example, can I swap out my Cat5e modules and panels for Cat6 or Cat7? Any cabling system is only as good as its weakest part. Therefore, if a Cat7 cabling link has Cat5e patch leads, the overall link is only Cat5e capable. While it is technically possible to use Cat7 cable instead of Cat5e, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, Cat7 cables have different connectors than Cat5e, Cat6, and Cat6a. They have an additional four connectors in the corner of the module compared to the previous eight connectors. Thus, they are generally not compatible. Additionally, Cat7 cables have thicker shielding and may require different installation practices. Furthermore, containment requirements will be a lot higher. Therefore, it is recommended to use the appropriate cable for your specific application. If your network infrastructure requires higher speeds, especially 10 gigabit and above, and better performance, Cat7 might be a suitable choice. Do Cat7 cables make a difference? Yes, installing Cat7 cables can make a noticeable difference in terms of performance and data transmission. With its higher bandwidth capabilities, Cat7 cabling can handle more data at faster speeds compared to Cat5e cabling. This can be particularly beneficial for networks that require high speed and reliable connections. Examples, such as data centers or demanding professional environments. Warehouses can be one such place with all the high electrical noise. The improved shielding and reduced crosstalk that Cat7 cabling provides also contribute to better signal quality and less interference. Thus, resulting in a more stable and efficient network transmission. How fast is Cat7 compared to Cat5e? Cat7 cable is significantly faster than Cat5e. Cat5e has a bandwidth of 100 MHz. By comparison, Cat7 cabling has a bandwidth of 600 MHz. Cat5e network cabling can support data rates of up to 1 gigabit per second, over a distance of 100 meters. By comparison, Cat7 cabling is capable of handling data rates of up to 10 gigabits per second, over the same distance. Furthermore, independent tests have shown capabilities of 40 gigabit at 50 meters and 100 gigabits at 15 meters. However, this required certain specific hardware configurations and is thus not a set standard. Cat7 vs Cat5e In summary, Cat7 cable offers several advantages over Cat5e and over Cat6 and Cat6a cabling. It provides higher bandwidth, faster data transmission speeds, improved shielding, minimal interference. Cat7 is a suitable choice for networks that require high performance connections and reliable data transfer. However, it's important to consider compatibility with existing equipment and installation requirements before opting for a Cat7 cabling network. If your network infrastructure supports higher speeds and you require enhanced capabilities, Cat7 cabling can be a beneficial upgrade from Cat5e network cabling. For further assistance or a free survey, please email or call on the details below, and click like and subscribe if you have enjoyed this video.