Network cables and Ethernet cables

Network cables are prominent in most communications systems across a variety of industries and in smaller, domestic settings. Network and ethernet cables are now more widely used than ever due to advancing digital and internet-based technology.

Whether you need high-speed connections in a business environment or you want to set up a home networking system, we have a variety of cables and connectors to suit your requirements.

Browse our network cables and use our comprehensive filter options to choose your ideal cable type and length as well as the conductor size and material. If you know the product for which you're looking, simply enter the part number or keyword in the top search bar.

At RS, we stock only quality products from leading brands such as Advantech, Belden, HARTING, and RS PRO. Shop today and find out why we're North America's top distributor of electrical parts and components.

What are network cables?

Used to transfer data between devices and storage systems, network cables are found in a variety of communications applications. Networking uses ethernet, or local area network (LAN) cables, and this system is often applied to connecting computers, printers, and scanners through the internet.

Ethernet cables are commonly used to connect a WiFi router to the internet port but they can be utilized across multiple devices. They sometimes have an RJ45 connector on each end to secure the connection, especially on personal computer systems. Network cables are widespread amongst domestic settings as well as industrial environments and organizations.

Technology has now advanced to incorporate higher bandwidth, meaning that ethernet cables are available for a variety of speeds and with different shield options. Twisted pair configurations are commonplace in ethernet cables as they help to reduce electromagnetic interference within the network cable wiring.

What are the different types of network and ethernet cables?

The main categories of ethernet cable types are labelled due to their speed provision; generally, the higher the number, the higher the speed. All of our network and internet cables cover the most modern connection system requirements:

• Cat 5 cables - These network cables provide speeds up to 100Mbps but have, in recent years, been widely replaced with Cat 5e The newer, enhanced technology allows speeds of up to 1 Gbps and functions at 100 Mhz, providing a quick way to transfer data between two devices.
• Cat 6 cables - These types of network cable wiring can achieve speeds of up to 10 Gbps and run at 250 Mhz. The shorter the cable length, the higher speed that can be reached by using a cat 6 ethernet cable. Cat 6a cables, however, will support higher speeds with longer cable lengths and up to a bandwidth of 500 Mhz.
• Cat 7 cables - Allowing even faster speeds and higher frequencies than cat 6 ethernet cables, cat 7 cables can run at 10Gbps but have a longer range than previous models, so they still perform just as well when transmitting from further away.

If you're unsure which type of ethernet cable you need, contact our helpful technical experts who will be able to advise you on the best solution for your domestic or industrial needs.

What network cable adapters are available?

There is a range of adapters to make network connections easier and more accessible. Long ethernet cables are available for when you want a steady and stable connection and one which you might not get using WiFi. Using a cable that's too long, however, could interrupt the connection so it's advisable to keep the distance to no more than around 100 meters.

You can easily use one cable for an internet connection serving two devices by attaching an ethernet splitter. An ethernet network switch offers a similar facility but is connected to the router at the point of entry and includes multiple ports for several devices. The signal then switches between systems to allow simultaneous use.

If you're looking to connect a device, such as a laptop, to a wired network, a USB to ethernet adapter will provide a stable means of connection. This can be useful in situations where wireless connectivity is patchy or unsecure.

Why choose RS for your network cables?

Whatever setting in which you're working, you need quality, reliable parts to maintain a secure and steady connection. With our large selection of ethernet cables, connectors and adapters, you can be sure to get the right fit for you from RS.

Discover products from renowned manufacturers like Belden, Panduit and Phoenix Contact, all part of our superior range of network cable wiring products.

Contact us today for help with your search or purchase and take a look at our expert advice hub for plenty of industry information and tips.