Cat 6 vs Cat 6A vs Cat 7 Ethernet Cables: Future-Proofing Your Network

Ethernet cable black
2 October 2025
Cat 6 vs Cat 6A vs Cat 7 Ethernet Cables: Future-Proofing Your Network

When choosing ethernet cables for your next project, one decision could make or break your network's performance for years to come.

At Webro, we've been the UK's leading cable specialist since 1980, and in that time we've witnessed countless projects succeed - and unfortunately, some fail - based purely on the ethernet cables selected. With over 350 years of combined industry experience across our team, we've helped thousands of customers navigate the critical choice between Cat 6, Cat 6A, and Cat 7 ethernet cables.

The truth is, whilst all ethernet cables might look similar on the surface, the differences between categories can determine whether your network delivers exceptional performance or leaves you planning an expensive upgrade after a few short years.

Why Webro Ethernet Cables Are Widely Considered the Amongst the Best in the Industry

Before diving into the technical differences, it's worth understanding what sets Webro ethernet cables apart. Our cables feature pure copper conductors always, never compromising on quality with copper-clad alternatives. Every ethernet cable in our range undergoes rigorous testing and quality control procedures, backed by our ISO 9001, 14001, and 45001 accreditations. Our cables comply fully with UK, European, and International standards including BS EN50173, TIA/EIA568 and ISO11801.

Ethernet cables are the lifelines of modern digital connectivity. At Webro, we offer premium Ethernet cables designed to seamlessly link IP data devices like computers, printers, cameras, controllers, and smart TVs to the Internet. Whether you're a professional installer, network engineer, or system integrator, our 35,000 sq.ft warehouse facility ensures you have access to the ethernet cables you need, when and where you need them.

Understanding Webro's Ethernet Cable Categories: What Each Delivers

Webro Cat 6 Ethernet Cables: The Reliable Foundation
Webro's comprehensive range of professional Cat 6 cables are designed for everything from high-speed networks to data centres and HDBaseT applications, available in a variety of packaging lengths to meet professional installation requirements.

Our Cat 6 ethernet cables support transmission speeds up to 10 Gbps and frequencies up to 250 MHz, making them ideal for:

  • Corporate office environments requiring reliable 1 Gigabit connectivity
  • HDBaseT applications in AV installations
  • Cost-effective network upgrades from older cable categories
  • Projects where budget constraints require balancing performance with cost

Key features of Webro Cat 6 ethernet cables include:

  • HDBaseT recommended options in convenient 305m pull boxes
  • Eight different colour choices for simplified network identification
  • External weatherproof, duct grade, and SWA armoured versions

Webro Cat 6A Ethernet Cables: The Sweet Spot for Future-Proofing

Webro's comprehensive range of professional Cat 6A cables are designed for everything from 10GBASE-T networks to data centres and high-density installations, available in a variety of packaging lengths to meet professional installation requirements.

Our Cat 6A ethernet cables represent the optimal balance between performance and practicality, supporting:

  • Full 10 Gigabit speeds over 100-metre distances
  • Frequencies up to 500 MHz with exceptional signal integrity
  • Elimination of alien crosstalk on U/FTP & F/FTP cables for reliable high-density installations

Cat 6A ethernet cables from Webro excel in:

  • Data centres requiring consistent 10 Gigabit performance
  • Corporate networks planning for future bandwidth demands
  • High-density installations where crosstalk performance is critical
  • Mission-critical applications where network reliability can’t be compromised

The Cat 6A range includes unscreened U/UTP and screened U/FTP and F/FTP variants, ensuring you have the right shielding option for every environment.

Webro Cat 7 Ethernet Cables: Maximum Shielding for Challenging Environments

Webro's comprehensive range of professional Cat 7 cables are designed for everything from high-performance data centres to enterprise networks and industrial applications, available in a variety of packaging lengths to meet professional installation requirements.

Our Cat 7 ethernet cables feature fully shielded S/FTP construction, delivering:

  • Individual foil-screened pairs with overall braid shielding
  • Enhanced electromagnetic compatibility for critical environments
  • Transmission speeds of 10 Gbps at frequencies up to 600 MHz

Cat 7 ethernet cables are particularly valuable in:

  • Industrial facilities with high electromagnetic interference
  • Data centres with dense server environments
  • Installations near heavy electrical equipment
  • Applications requiring maximum protection against external interference

The Webro Advantage: Why Professional Installers Choose Our Ethernet Cables

Unmatched Stock Availability and Service

Operating from our highly efficient warehouse operation, Webro maintains extensive stock levels across all ethernet cable categories. Next-day delivery is standard on stock orders, and our dedicated account managers can arrange custom delivery schedules for larger projects.

Our service offering includes competitive market pricing for all orders. Standard lengths are available from 100m to 1000m reels, and in 305m boxes. For specific project requirements, our cut-to-length service provides flexibility whilst maintaining cost-effectiveness, reducing wastage on your installations.

Technical Expertise That Makes the Difference

What truly sets Webro apart is our technical team's combined industry experience. We don't just supply ethernet cables, we provide comprehensive support throughout your project lifecycle:

  • Initial specification and performance requirement assessment
  • Installation best practices and troubleshooting guidance
  • Ongoing supply management for multi-phase projects
  • Technical documentation and compliance assistance

Quality That Protects Your Reputation

Every batch of Webro ethernet cables undergoes comprehensive testing before dispatch. Our ISO certifications ensure consistent production standards, whilst regular performance testing to international standards maintains our quality benchmarks.

All of our ethernet cables meet current Construction Products Regulation (CPR) standards where applicable, providing the reassurance you need to protect your hard-earned reputation. CPR compliance includes products from Class Eca to Class B2ca.

Choosing the Right Ethernet Cables for Your Application

Data Centres and Server Environments

For high-density data centre installations, Webro Cat 6A ethernet cables typically provide the optimal balance of performance and value. The enhanced alien crosstalk rejection of screened cables ensures reliable performance even when hundreds of cables run in parallel.

Cat 7 ethernet cables offer additional benefits in server environments with significant electromagnetic interference, whilst Cat 6 remains suitable for edge connections and less demanding applications.

Corporate and Commercial Buildings

Cat 6A ethernet cables represent excellent future-proofing for most commercial installations. The 10 Gigabit capability provides substantial headroom as video conferencing, cloud applications, and digital workplace tools continue increasing bandwidth demands.

Webro's colour options simplify installation and ongoing maintenance, whilst our external and duct-grade variants ensure you have appropriate solutions for every part of the building infrastructure.

Industrial and Manufacturing Facilities

In challenging industrial environments, the enhanced shielding of both Cat 6a and Cat 7 cables provides crucial protection against electromagnetic interference from machinery and electrical systems.

Our armoured variants offer additional mechanical protection, whilst LSNH (Low Smoke Non Halogen) versions meet safety requirements for critical applications.

AV and Custom Installation Projects

For HDBaseT applications, Webro's HDBaseT-recommended Cat 6 and Cat 6A ethernet cables deliver certified performance for extending HDMI, USB, and control signals over long distances.

Cat 6A ethernet cables provide additional bandwidth for 4K video distribution and future 8K requirements, ensuring your AV installations remain current as display technology advances.

Planning Your Ethernet Cable Investment: Cost vs. Performance

When evaluating ethernet cable options, consider the total cost of ownership rather than just initial cable costs:

Cat 6 ethernet cables offer the lowest upfront investment but may require earlier replacement as bandwidth demands increase.

Cat 6A ethernet cables typically cost 20-30% more than Cat 6 but provide substantial future-proofing value, often eliminating the need for premature network upgrades.

Cat 7 ethernet cables command a premium but deliver unmatched performance in challenging environments where reliability is paramount.

Why Choose Webro for Your Ethernet Cable Requirements

Since 1980, Webro has built a reputation as the UK's most trusted cable specialist. When you choose Webro cables, you're not just buying products, you're partnering with experts who understand your challenges and are committed to your success.

Our cable range is engineered to excel across diverse applications, from simple office networks to the most demanding data centre environments. With pure copper conductors across all products, comprehensive screening options, and unmatched stock availability, Webro provides the ethernet cables that professional installers rely on.

Extensive Choice: From unscreened U/UTP to fully shielded S/FTP variants, with external, duct grade, and armoured options

Dependable Service: Next-day delivery as standard, with cut-to-length flexibility and customised call-off orders

Expert Support: 350+ years of combined technical experience, providing guidance from specification to installation

Quality Assurance: ISO-certified manufacturing with rigorous industry standard testing and CPR compliance across our range

Future-Proofing Your Network Infrastructure

Technology continues to advance rapidly, and today's ethernet cable decisions will impact your network's capabilities for years to come. Remote working, IoT devices, 4K/8K video content, and cloud-based applications all drive increasing bandwidth demands.

Webro's ethernet cables are designed to support not just today's requirements, but tomorrow's opportunities. Whether you choose Cat 6 for cost-effective upgrades, Cat 6A for comprehensive future-proofing, or Cat 7 for maximum performance, you can trust Webro to deliver the quality and expertise your projects demand.

Ready to future-proof your network with confidence? Contact Webro's expert team for technical advice tailored to your specific requirements. Our specialists understand the unique demands of every application and will help you select the perfect ethernet cables for your project.

With Webro's extensive choice, next-day delivery, and unrivalled technical support, you can trust us to deliver the right ethernet cable solutions every time.

 

Need technical help & advice to choose the right cable for your project? Talk to our dedicated Webro Team for expert advice: sales@webro.com | 0115 972 4483 | www.webro.com

Contact us: www.webro.com/contact/get-in-touch.html

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