Your complete guide to Ethernet and LAN cabling
A fast, reliable network is built on the right cable, the right connectors, and correct termination practices. This section covers the practical knowledge installers and IT teams need to specify, install and troubleshoot Ethernet and Local Area Network (LAN) cabling, from category standards and shielding choices through to plug identification and wiring diagrams.
Each guide is designed for on-site reference or as a training resource for new installers.
Explore our guides
- Cable Shielding Guide: UTP vs F/UTP vs S/FTP
When you actually need shielded cable, when UTP is fine, and the grounding rule that determines whether shielding works at all. - Comparing Cat5 and Cat6 Plugs
A visual guide to telling Cat5/Cat5e and Cat6 plugs apart by their wire layout, with practical advice on matching plugs to cable. - How to Terminate Cat6 Plugs (Load Bar Guide)
Step-by-step termination instructions for the three main versions of Cat6 plug and their corresponding load bars. - LAN Wiring Schemes
Pinout diagrams for the major LAN wiring standards including T568A, T568B, 10Base-T, Token Ring, TP-PMD and USOC. - Reference Guide for Category Standards
Bandwidth, distance and data rate specifications for every Ethernet category from CAT1 through CAT8.
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