What does cable "category" indicate?

The term "cable category" specifically refers to the performance level and technical specifications of twisted pair cabling. Different cable categories, such as Cat5e, Cat6, and Cat6a, denote various capabilities in terms of bandwidth, transmission speed, and frequency. For instance, a higher category number generally indicates improved performance characteristics, such as the ability to handle higher data rates and reduced crosstalk.

The classification system helps installers and network designers select the appropriate cabling for their specific needs, ensuring that the cabling systems installed can support the desired networking standards and applications effectively. Understanding the category of a cable is essential for ensuring optimal network performance and future-proofing the installation as technology advances.