The Cat6a UTP 10G Ethernet patch cable connects RJ45 devices at 10 Gigabit Ethernet speeds across data centers, server rooms, and high-bandwidth home networks. Built with four twisted pairs of 24 AWG bare copper and rated to 500 MHz, it delivers the bandwidth capacity needed for 10GBASE-T links up to 100 meters while keeping signal integrity high in dense cabling runs.
Both ends terminate in an 8P8C RJ45 modular plug wired to the T568B standard, with 50-micron gold-plated contacts that resist corrosion and hold low contact resistance over thousands of mating cycles. The plug seats in any standard RJ45 port on switches, routers, servers, patch panels, and wall jacks, making the cable a direct drop-in for existing network infrastructure.
The Cat6a construction adds tighter pair twists and a cross-filler spline that separates the pairs to reduce alien crosstalk between adjacent cables. This crosstalk reduction is what lets Cat6a sustain 10G over the full 100-meter channel where Cat6 is limited to roughly 55 meters, making it the practical choice for longer runs and high-density patch fields.
The cable carries UL and RoHS marks. The bare copper conductors meet the requirements for Power over Ethernet, so the same cable can carry PoE, PoE+, and PoE++ to cameras, access points, and VoIP phones without a separate power run.
A snagless molded boot protects the locking tab so connectors pass cleanly through patch-panel ports and cable bundles during moves, adds, and changes. The UTP design keeps the cable thin and flexible for tight bend radii behind racks and desks, and nine jacket colors support port mapping and structured color-coding schemes across an installation.
The red jacket provides high-visibility identification, commonly reserved for critical links, security or PoE cameras, and dedicated circuits that must be spotted instantly.
Compatibility & Ordering Information: This Cat6a patch cable works with any RJ45 equipment, including Gigabit and 10G network switches, routers, firewalls, NAS units, servers, PoE cameras, gaming consoles, and workstations. It is available in lengths from 0.5 ft to 100 ft with custom lengths on request, and in nine colors. For in-wall backbone runs, pair these patch cables with Cat6a solid bulk cable and keystone jacks; for shielded environments, see the Cat6a STP shielded patch cable.
Buyers choosing a 10G-capable patch cable most often weigh Cat6a against standard Cat6, since both use RJ45 connectors and look identical. The table below summarizes the decision:
| Attribute | Cat6a (this cable) | Cat6 |
|---|---|---|
| Bandwidth | 500 MHz | 250 MHz |
| 10G Distance | 10GBASE-T to the full 100 m | 10G limited to about 55 m |
| Alien Crosstalk | Reduced by tighter twists and cross-filler spline | Higher in dense, bundled runs |
| Conductor | 24 AWG bare copper, UTP | 24 AWG bare copper, UTP |
| PoE Support | PoE / PoE+ / PoE++ (more thermal headroom) | PoE / PoE+ / PoE++ |
| Best Use | Data centers, server rooms, 10G backbones, long or dense runs | Gigabit networks, short 10G patch links, home and office |
| Connector | RJ45 (8P8C), 50-micron gold contacts | RJ45 (8P8C), 50-micron gold contacts |
Choose Cat6a for 10G runs over 55 m, high-density patch fields, and data-center or server-room cabling.
Choose Cat6 for Gigabit networks and short 10G links where maximum distance and crosstalk margin are not critical.
What is the difference between Cat6 and Cat6a?
Cat6a sustains 10 Gigabit Ethernet across the full 100-meter channel, while Cat6 is limited to about 55 meters for 10G. Cat6a doubles the bandwidth to 500 MHz and adds tighter twists and a spline to reduce alien crosstalk, making it the better choice for longer runs and dense cabling.
Does this Cat6a cable support PoE, PoE+, and PoE++?
Yes. All four pairs are 24 AWG bare copper (not copper-clad aluminum), so the cable carries Power over Ethernet up to PoE++ (90 W) to cameras, access points, and IP phones. Bare copper matters for PoE; copper-clad aluminum runs hotter and can be a fire risk on powered runs. The RJ45 plugs fit any standard port and it is backward compatible with Cat6 and Cat5e gear.
Do I need Cat6a for 10 Gigabit Ethernet?
For 10G runs longer than about 55 meters, yes. Cat6a is rated for 10GBASE-T to the full 100 meters at 500 MHz. For short 10G patch links a quality Cat6 cable can work, but Cat6a removes the distance limit and adds crosstalk margin in bundled installations.
How do I connect a snagless Cat6a patch cable?
Push the RJ45 plug into the port until the locking tab clicks; the snagless boot lets it pass cleanly through patch-panel ports and bundles. To remove, press the tab and pull straight out. No tools or termination are needed since the cable is factory-terminated and tested.
Which Cat6a cable is best for a data center or home 10G network?
For open patch fields and most 10G networks, UTP Cat6a like this one is best for flexibility and PoE. For high-EMI environments such as dense server racks or industrial floors, choose the Cat6a STP shielded version; for in-wall backbone, use Cat6a solid bulk cable.