Imagine a scenario, you are running an Cat6 plenum cable 1000ft for nearly. When you are all done, you get to know that you had the wrong cable type all along. Now, how would you feel? Angry is not the right word to express your anguish and disappointment, right? That is why it is imperative to get the right type of cable. There are many types of Ethernet cable available on the market these days. It has become very difficult to choose the just right cable according to your networking needs.

This article will talk about the two main types of Ethernet cable; standard & solid. Many people still do not know the basic difference between these two types. Before you jump on to cable categories, you need to learn about standard & solid cable.

What is a Solid Cable?

If any of you are still wondering about cat6 solid copper, let us make it clear to you. A traditional Ethernet cable has eight conductors in total. These conductors are either made of copper-clad aluminum (CCA) or pure copper. If your cable has pure copper conductors then it would be a solid cable. These cables are ideal for permanent installations. You cannot move them around much because of their rigidity & sturdiness. That is why you must examine the deployment space before buying the cable.

Advantages of Solid Cable

One of the biggest benefits of using this type of cable is the distance. You can run this cable over a longer distance. In addition, you will not have to worry about your data loss.

If you are looking for a cable that supports power over Ethernet (PoE) then look no further. Solid Ethernet cable will take charge of all of your power over Ethernet applications.

Another benefit of using this cable is that it works better with punch-down applications.

If you are planning an outdoor deployment, you should always opt for this cable. It has a rigid structure and will perform great in harsh conditions.

You can use this cable in a wide range of scenarios. Solid copper Ethernet cable comes in plenum & riser jacket types as well. Make sure to get the right jacket type because of the safety & well-being of others.


Disadvantages of Solid Copper Cable

One of the biggest downsides of using this cable is its lack of flexibility. You cannot use this around the corners & edges. Make sure to use this cable in a straight line if possible.

Another disadvantage of using this cable is the termination on both ends. You will have to terminate both ends for a patch panel or even a keystone jack.

If you are buying this cable as a patch cable, you will need RJ45 connectors for both ends of the cable.

What is a Standard Copper Ethernet Cable?

The internal structure of these cables has standard copper or copper-clad aluminum as a conductor. Unlike solid cables, you can use this cable around turns & twists. Furthermore, you will not have to worry about it breaking it off. This cable is not rigid or sturdy as compared to solid cable.

Let’s take a look at some of the advantages & disadvantages this cable has to offer for its users:

Advantages of a Standard Cable

The biggest benefit of using this cable is its flexibility. You can use this cable in narrow pathways & air ducts without the fear of damaging the outer jacket.

You can use this cable to connect to devices and it would work perfectly fine with that. You do not need to install any extra device to get the maximum out of this cable.

Disadvantages of Standard Cable

If you are planning to run your cable for over 75 meters distance, you can face some performance issues with this cable. The reason is the presence of air bubbles inside the twisted copper strands. This can cause performance issues for you.

The individual copper wires inside the cable create DC resistance, especially for power over Ethernet applications. We would not recommend you run this cable over a longer distance.

The outer jacket availability is also another issue you can face when buying this cable. Many manufacturers do not have all the jackets for standard cables.

Monk cable has become a go-to brand when it comes to premium-quality Ethernet cables & their accessories. We manufacture the highest quality cables at our state-of-the-art facility to get the best results. In addition, we offer the best pricing in the entire country. Check out for more details.