Speed and reliability mean everything for your business technology. Whether you’re managing a law office in downtown Savannah or a multi-tenant retail space near Garden City, your network infrastructure plays a pivotal role in daily operations. While Wi-Fi may get all the attention, it’s the wired backbone — specifically, low voltage category cables — that keep your data flowing smoothly behind the scenes.
Let’s break down the basics of category cables and explore why choosing the right one—Cat5e, Cat6, or Cat6A—can future-proof your business network and maximize your tech investment.
What Are Category Cables?
Category cables (or “Cat cables”) are twisted pair Ethernet cables that deliver high-speed data, voice, and video transmissions over your low voltage infrastructure. They’re often used in structured cabling systems for everything from connecting desktops and VoIP phones to powering access points and security cameras.
Most small to mid-sized businesses in Savannah will encounter three common types of category cable: Cat5e, Cat6, and Cat6A. Each version builds on the last — with improvements in speed, interference resistance, and maximum cable length.
Cat5e vs. Cat6 vs. Cat6A: What’s the Difference?
Cat5e (Category 5 Enhanced)
Still widely used, Cat5e supports speeds up to 1 Gbps at 100 MHz. It’s ideal for small networks with light-to-moderate data usage. If you’re wiring a small office where the budget is tight and speed demands are modest, Cat5e can get the job done. It’s also the most flexible of the three, which can make installation in tight spaces easier.
Cat6
The next evolution, Cat6, offers speeds up to 10 Gbps — but only for distances up to 164 feet. Beyond that, the speed drops. It also includes a plastic spline inside that separates the twisted wire pairs, which reduces crosstalk and improves signal quality. For businesses with growing bandwidth needs or more connected devices, Cat6 is a strong step up in performance.
Cat6A (Augmented Cat6)
Cat6A is engineered for 10 Gbps speeds over the full 328 feet of cabling. It’s thicker, more rigid, and better shielded, making it ideal for data-heavy environments like healthcare facilities, design studios, or surveillance systems. While it costs more upfront, Cat6A delivers long-term value and scalability for high-performance networks.
The Low Voltage Advantage
As a managed service provider (MSP) in Savannah, our team at SPEROS specializes in low voltage solutions that scale with your needs. Whether you’re upgrading an office, wiring a new facility, or retrofitting an older building in Port Wentworth, low voltage wiring is a cost-effective and code-compliant way to lay the foundation for a high-speed, secure network.
Low voltage cabling also powers systems like:
- Access control & security cameras
- Voice over IP (VoIP) phone systems
- Smart lighting and building automation
- Wireless access points (WAPs)
Which Cable Is Right for You?
The best cable for your business depends on your current and future needs:
- Cat5e: Budget-friendly and sufficient for small offices with standard internet and basic connectivity.
- Cat6: Ideal for growing businesses that rely on video conferencing, cloud applications, or multiple users per location.
- Cat6A: Best for enterprise-level performance, heavy data loads, or future-proofing your infrastructure for 10 Gbps+ speeds.
The SPEROS team can perform a network assessment to help you determine the best cable type for your environment, usage, and budget.
Choosing the right category cable might seem like a small decision, but it’s a foundational one. With proper planning and the right low voltage infrastructure in place, your business will be wired for success today and ready for whatever comes next.
Looking to upgrade your network or build a new one from the ground up? Contact SPEROS in Savannah, GA to schedule a low voltage consultation today.
