Ethernet cable vs network cable. This is a comparison that often causes confusion. The network installation experts at The Wifi Specialist are here to demystify the jargon and make it easier for you to find the perfect cable for your internet needs.
Devices are now essential to our lives. Laptops, computers, televisions, and games consoles all need a network cable to work. Cables are vital to keeping all of our devices connected, so it pays off to understand what you’re looking at when you’re choosing a cable for your home or business devices.
Network cable and ethernet cable both do a similar job. They are both designed to transmit information from one device to another one in a different location. The main difference between these two cables and their uses comes from their transmission speeds.
Network cables, like fibre optic cables and telephone wires, have high bandwidth and transmission speeds. In comparison, ethernet cable, also known as LAN cable, is a local connection between two devices.
What is an ethernet cable?
Ethernet cables connect to local devices like network switches, printers, computers, routers and any other hardware in your network. For example, if you connected a computer to a printer using an ethernet cable, this is a LAN connection. They deliver internet data or information to the end-user via physical RJ45 patch cables.
Ethernet cables are better suited for transmitting data over short distances. These cables are also capable of supplying power to a device, as well as transmitting data. These PoE (Power over Ethernet) connections can minimise the number of plug sockets required to power your devices.
Ethernet cables are perfect for businesses, as you can keep your staff connected to one secure network. They are also ideal for home use as they are easy to use and install. If your home or business internet network could benefit from a professionally installed ethernet cable, you need to talk to an expert team like The Wifi Specialist.
What is network cable?
Network cable, also known as internet cable, is often confused with ethernet cable because they both transmit data via a wired connection. Network cables do not conduct electricity, so they are ideal for installing in areas where heavy electromagnetic interference is present. This makes them perfect for use on construction sites and on factory floors.
Network cables are more robust than ethernet cables and they can transmit information at a higher bandwidth, often over longer distances. Fibre optic cables and telephone wires are examples of network cables. So are high-speed HDMI cables and audio cables. Get in touch with the expert internet engineers at The Wifi Specialist if you need network cabling installed on your premises.
Do you like the sound of having network cable installed in your home or business?
Frequently Asked Questions
Internet cable vs LAN cable - are they the same thing?
LAN cable and internet cable are not the same things. LAN cable, commonly known as ethernet cable, has one specific purpose. This is to deliver internet data or information to the end-user via physical RJ45 patch cables. An example of this type of connection is linking a computer to a printer with a LAN cable.
Internet cables are more robust than ethernet cables and they are capable of transmitting information at a higher bandwidth, over longer distances. This includes fibre optic cables and telephone wires. If you have any more questions or need professional LAN cable installation, contact The Wifi Specialist today.
What do internet cable and ethernet cable do?
Internet cable and ethernet cable do a similar job. They are both designed to transmit information from one device to another in a different location. Internet cables, also known as network cables, have high bandwidth and transmission speed. They are therefore used for larger networks like telephone lines.
Ethernet cables transmit signals over shorter distances. They can also supply power to a device while they are transmitting data. Ethernet cables are used to connect two similar devices, without needing an additional modem or router. If you need internet cable or ethernet cable installed in your home or business, contact The Wifi Specialist.
Can I use a LAN cable as an ethernet cable?
Yes, you can use a LAN cable as an ethernet cable. They both contain copper wiring and use RJ45 connectors. As a result, they are interchangeable. Ethernet cables connect to switches, printers, computers, routers and any other devices in your network.
This makes them great for home or office use as you can keep all your devices on one secure network. Connecting your devices with a physical cable ensures your information remains secure. If your home or business would benefit from a professionally installed LAN cable, get in touch with the expert team at The Wifi Specialist today.
Contact The Wifi Specialist today for a quote or to arrange a no obligation survey
Our Happy Clients
I was struggling to get a decent wifi signal down to the garden office until the Wifi Specialists recommended a Point to Point kit. Now the internet is faster in the office than it is in the house. The guys did a great job installing too, keeping all the cabling very neat and hidden wherever possible. Even sorted out the TV aerial cable while they were doing the P2P cabling! Great service, strongly recommend.
Richard G
Couldn't recommend Indy more highly. They helped us implement an effective corporate wifi solution at very short notice. Communication throughout was excellent and we look forward to working with them again.
Francesca M
Indy and Rakki are first class guys, they did a professional job in record time and I ended up with a better router indoors as well as the Access point outdoors which now covers the whole garden. Definitely recommend the Wifi specialists.
John M
I'm absolute delighted with the service provided by The WiFi Specialist in running an ethernet cable out to my garden office. Indy was extremely helpful in discussion the options available to me, and recommending the right approach, and the work was carried out efficiently and with minimum disruption. I'm thrilled to now have a secure connection, and would definitely recommend The WiFi Specialist to anyone looking to improve connectivity.
Simon M
Excellent, knowledgeable, seamless experience with Indy and team. Not to mention my now perfect wifi!
Sarah K
I had been struggling with my wifi signal around my house for a number of years and the situation only got worse as we moved to remote working. After many attempts to get the issue addressed through the local ISP, I (my wife and kids) decided that I needed a specialist to come in. Indy made the whole process very simple from the initial site visit, design guidance and installation. I had my house refurbished a few years ago so adding new cabling around the house needed knowledge and experience. Indy and Rak did a great job at concealing the cat6 cables and provided a professional finish. I now have full wifi signal all around the house, garden and garage. I would highly recommend The Wi-Fi Specialist. Thank you.
Amarjit K
The IT service from this company was exemplary and resulted in a very good WiFi signal throughout the house. Indy was generous with his time and explained the technology well, without trying to sell equipment that would have been unnecessary for a domestic installation. He is friendly, knowledgeable and very professional. It was a great pleasure to work with him.
Andy A
