What is cat7?

Cat7, short for Category 7, is a type of Ethernet cable used to connect devices like computers, routers, and switches. It is designed to carry data at very high speeds (up to 10 Gbps) and to reduce interference, making the connection more reliable.

Let's break it down

  • Cable structure: Cat7 has four twisted pairs of copper wires, each shielded with a foil, and the whole cable is wrapped in an overall shield.
  • Speed & bandwidth: It supports frequencies up to 600 MHz, allowing data rates of 10 Gbps over distances up to 100 meters.
  • Connectors: Usually uses GG45 or TERA connectors, but it can also work with standard RJ45 plugs (though performance may be limited).
  • Shielding: The double shielding (individual pair shielding + overall shielding) protects against electromagnetic interference (EMI) and crosstalk.

Why does it matter?

Because modern homes and offices use bandwidth‑hungry applications-4K/8K video streaming, online gaming, cloud backups, and large file transfers-having a cable that can handle fast, stable data transfer helps prevent lag, buffering, and dropped connections. The extra shielding also makes the network more reliable in environments with lots of electronic noise.

Where is it used?

  • High‑performance home networks (smart homes, media rooms)
  • Small to medium business offices that need fast internal data transfer
  • Data centers for short‑run connections between servers and switches
  • Industrial settings where electrical noise is common (factories, labs)

Good things about it

  • Very high data rates (10 Gbps) and wide bandwidth (600 MHz)
  • Excellent protection against interference thanks to double shielding
  • Future‑proof for many years as network demands grow
  • Can be used for both data and Power over Ethernet (PoE) in some cases

Not-so-good things

  • More expensive than Cat5e or Cat6 cables and connectors
  • Thicker and less flexible, making installation in tight spaces harder
  • Requires compatible connectors (GG45/Tera) for full performance; using regular RJ45 may limit speed
  • Overkill for simple internet browsing or basic home use where lower‑grade cables already suffice.