Types of network cables and quality.

UTP = Unshielded twisted pair.
STP = Shielded twisted pair. Better quality, but may be overkill for some networks.

CAT 5 : 100M or 330ft range over ethernet. Up to 100Mbps at these distances.

CAT 5e: Better quality than CAT 5, it should be good for up to 1000Mbps in certain conditions.

CAT 6: Don't think this has been accepted by the standard makers yet, but is good for 1000Mbps.

<b><font color=blue>~ <A HREF="http://forums.btvillarin.com/index.php?act=ST&f=41&t=324&s=58e94ba84a16bedfebbf0f416d5bac48" target="_new">Nice sig 81.</A> ~<font color=blue></b>

the one and true answer is that it depends. If you're looking to be cost consience then you need to weigh the needs of the network to the cost of the cable. If your network will not be running gigabit eithernet then no _need_ for cat 5e or cat 6. if you know you are going to be running the cable in a "noisy" environment that could cause line noise then get STP. if you're going to run enough to go between bedrooms then just get UTP. STP is nice if you know you are going to lay the cable next to a power line or across a florescent lamp. Like camieabz said, STP is overkill in certain cercumstances.

GK

Yes, I made it past newbie w00t.

yes to all questions.

<i>It's always the one thing you never suspected.</i>

That's true. I was looking at prices for Cat5 STP and that can go into hundreds so not going to bother. But I wonder if wireless will take over anytime soon? Or maybe Bluetooth...