The Category 6a, or Cat6a, cable is the latest iteration of Gigabit Ethernet cabling. The a stands for "augmented" and is a nod to Cat6a's improved specifications compared with its predecessor, the Category 6, or Cat6 cable.

The Cat6a doubles data transmission bandwidth, from 250 to 500 MHz; decreases the chance of crosstalk interference; and provides superior reliability and transmission speeds through greater lengths of cable. Unlike most Cat6 cables, Cat6a cables are also often shielded, making them ideal for industrial use where additional interference may be a concern.

How to Identify Cat6 and Cta6a Cables
Cat6 and Cat6a cables have their identifiers printed on the cable jacket itself — Category 6 or Category 6a, respectively. Another quick way to tell the two cables apart is to note that Cat6a cables are much thicker and bulkier than cat6 cables. Note that both types of cables use the same connector — RJ45 — so that is not a way to differentiate between them.