Buying UTP Cable – Length, Shielding (UTP/FTP) and Outdoor Cable

A UTP cable is the standard network cable you use to connect computers, cameras, access points and switches. When choosing one, three things matter most: the category (Cat5e, Cat6 or Cat6a), the shielding (UTP or FTP) and whether the cable will run indoors or outdoors. This buying guide helps you pick the right cable first time.

When do you use a UTP cable?

You use a UTP cable whenever you want a stable, wired network connection. Think of an IP camera, an access point, a TV, a PC or a link between two switches. A wired connection is almost always more stable and faster than Wi-Fi, especially over longer distances or with continuous data traffic such as camera footage.

Key choices when buying a UTP cable

Before you buy a UTP cable, decide on these three points. They determine the speed, the reliability and whether the cable suits your situation.

• Category: Cat5e is fine for 1 Gbit over short to medium distances. Cat6 gives you more headroom and is the standard choice for new installations. Cat6a is designed for 10 Gbit over the full 100 m.
• Shielding (UTP or FTP): UTP (unshielded twisted pair) has no shielding and is sufficient in most homes. FTP or S/FTP has a foil or braided shield; use it where there is a lot of interference, for example alongside power cables or in commercial buildings.
• Length: an Ethernet link works up to a maximum of 100 m. Stay below that, and allow for bends and spare length when you measure.

Not sure whether to go for Cat5e, Cat6 or Cat6a? Our article how to choose the right network cable explains the differences with practical examples.

Outdoor Cat6 UTP cable: what to look for

Outdoors you need a dedicated cable. A standard indoor cable with a PVC jacket degrades in sunlight and will eventually let moisture in. An outdoor Cat6 UTP cable has a UV-resistant jacket (usually PE) that withstands sun and weather. If you plan to bury the cable, choose a direct-burial cable designed for that purpose, or run the cable through a protective conduit. For outdoor cameras, combine the outdoor cable with a waterproof connector so the connection point stays sealed as well.

Installation and best practices

Keep network cable away from power cables wherever possible to reduce interference. Don't bend the cable too sharply; tight bends damage the conductors. If you work with bulk cable on a reel, you'll need connectors and a crimping tool, which you'll find under tools. If you power devices over the network cable using PoE, check that your switch or injector delivers enough power. Take a look at our PoE power supplies.

Common mistakes

The most common mistakes: using an indoor cable outdoors (it degrades quickly), exceeding 100 m (the connection drops out or slows down), or choosing a category too low for the speed you need. Running an unshielded cable right next to a power cable also often causes interference; in that case, choose FTP. Always measure generously and allow some extra length: you can shorten a cable, but you can't lengthen it.

Recommended products and advice

You'll find made-to-length patch cables and bulk cable on reels in our Ethernet and network cables collection, from short Cat6 patch cables to a 305 m reel of outdoor Cat6 UTP cable. Not sure which cable, length or shielding you need? Send us a description of your situation via WhatsApp and we'll help you work it out.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between UTP and FTP?

UTP stands for unshielded twisted pair: a cable without shielding that works perfectly well in most homes. FTP or S/FTP has a foil or braided shield around the conductors and protects against external interference. Choose FTP if the cable runs alongside power cables or in an environment with a lot of electrical interference.

Which Cat cable do I need for 1 Gbit or 10 Gbit?

For 1 Gbit, Cat5e is sufficient, but Cat6 gives you more headroom and is the usual choice for new installations. If you want 10 Gbit over the full 100 m, choose Cat6a. Over short distances Cat6 can also handle 10 Gbit, but Cat6a is the safe choice for that.

Can I use a regular UTP cable outdoors?

Better not. An indoor cable with a PVC jacket degrades in sunlight and lets moisture in. Outdoors, use an outdoor Cat6 UTP cable with a UV-resistant jacket. If you plan to bury the cable, choose a direct-burial cable or run it through a protective conduit, so the connection stays reliable for years.

When do I need PoE?

You use PoE (Power over Ethernet) when you want to supply a device with both power and data over a single network cable, such as an IP camera, access point or video doorbell. That way you don't need a separate power socket near the device. Do make sure your switch or injector delivers enough power for the device.

What is the difference between a modem and a router?

A modem connects your home to your provider's internet service. A router distributes that internet connection to your devices, both wired and over Wi-Fi. Often both are combined in a single device. You usually connect your UTP cable to the router or to a switch behind the router.

What is the maximum length of a UTP cable?

An Ethernet link works up to 100 m between two active devices. Stay below that for a stable connection. If you need to go further, use a switch in between or fibre optic cable. Always measure generously and allow for bends and spare length, because you can't lengthen a cable that turns out too short.