Making Your Own Network Cables

There are many names for the network cables used to connect computers and devices to routers, switchboxes, modems, and each other. Ethernet, LAN cables, Cat5e, Cat6, or network patch cables are the most common names. Most home users rarely need more than a few of these, and you can buy them in convenient standard lengths from 7' to 25' with the plugs already on the end. Those are usually more than long enough for connections within a room.

NOTE: Cat6 cable is more expensive and harder to work with than Cat5e cable. For most do-it-yourself home use, Cat5e is just fine. If you are having your house professionally wired, the installer may want to use Cat6 because is rated for higher speed and bandwidth than Cat5e. ...

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