Frequently Asked Questions

 

FAQ – Network Cables & Accessories

Welcome to our FAQ section, where we answer the most common questions we are asked about Ethernet cables, network accessories, and our products. Whether you're setting up a home office or wiring a data cabinet, we’ve got you covered.

Cable Comparisons & Specifications

Q: What is the difference between Cat5e and Cat6 cables?
A: Cat5e supports speeds up to 1 Gbps at 100m and is ideal for everyday networking needs. Cat6 supports up to 10 Gbps at 55m, with improved shielding and performance. If you're future-proofing or handling high-speed applications, Cat6 is a better option. Browse Cat5e Cables | Browse Cat6 Cables

Q: What’s the difference between Cat6 and Cat6A cables?
A: Cat6A (Augmented) supports 10 Gbps up to 100 metres, double that of standard Cat6. It also features better shielding and reduced crosstalk, making it ideal for data centres or PoE+ setups. View Cat6A Options

Q: Cat6A vs Cat7 – Which should I choose?
A: Cat7 offers even better shielding and frequency support (up to 600 MHz) than Cat6A (500 MHz), but it uses GG45 or TERA connectors, not standard RJ45. For most setups, Cat6A is preferred due to full RJ45 compatibility and widespread support. Explore Cat7A Cables

Cable Quality & Materials

Q: Are your Ethernet patch cables made with full copper?
A: Yes – all our patch cables are Full Copper (not Copper Clad Aluminium), ensuring higher performance, longer lifespan, and better support for PoE applications. We clearly state this in product descriptions.

Q: What is U/UTP vs U/FTP vs F/UTP vs F/FTP vs S/FTP
A: Cable types we stock:

  • U/UTP (Unshielded, Unshielded Twisted Pair): No shielding, suitable for basic home and office networking.

  • U/FTP (Unshielded, Foil Twisted Pair): Outer cable has no shielding with foil shielding on each pair. This is a lighter more flexible alternative to F/FTP, offering solid protaction against internal crosstalk but with less shielding from external EMI. Choose U/FTP for general office and building structured cabling, especially where ease of installation matters.

  • F/UTP (Foil, Unshielded Twisted Pair): Includes foil around the outer cable for EMI protection. The inner pairs are unshielded — ideal for high-interference environments.

  • F/FTP (Foil, Foil Twisted Pair): Each internal pair and the overall cable are foil shielded – Provides superior protection from both external EMI and crosstalk between pairs.

  • S/FTP (Screened, Foil Twisted Pair): Braided screen around the outer cable and foil shielding on each pair – Better EMI shielding and noise protection than F/FTP. Used in the most demanding, high-frequency data environments.

  • Browse U/UTP Cables | Browse  F/UTP Cables | Browse F/FTP Cables | Browse S/FTP Cables

Q: What does LSOH mean?
A: LSOH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen) cables release minimal smoke and no toxic halogen gases when burned. Ideal for public buildings, data centres, or where fire safety is critical.

Device Compatibility

Q: Can I use your patch cables for gaming consoles or smart TVs?
A: Absolutely. Our Cat5e, Cat6, Cat6A and Cat8.1 patch cables are all compatible with Xbox, PlayStation (PS3/PS4/PS5), smart TVs, streaming devices, and more.

Q: Will your cables work with Sky or Virgin Media routers?
A: Yes. All our Ethernet RJ45 patch cables are compatible with UK broadband routers from Sky, Virgin, BT, TalkTalk, and others.

Orders & Delivery

Q: Do you offer free delivery?
A: Yes – we offer free UK delivery on all orders over £100. 

Q: Are the cables individually packaged?
A: Yes – all our patch leads are supplied individually bagged for protection and ease of deployment.

Q: Do you supply to trade or resellers?
A: Yes – we offer trade pricing and bulk discounts for resellers, installers, and commercial customers. Please contact us for a quote.

Didn’t find your question?

Contact our team or email sales@network-cabling.co.uk — we’re happy to help.