Cat 6 and Cat 6A four-pair cables both use four pairs of conductors for network connections, while the Cat 6A options in this assortment support testing up to 700 MHz compared with up to 550 MHz for Cat 6. Cat 6A can support higher-bandwidth infrastructure designs, while Cat 6 may fit standard network installations, with riser- and plenum-rated options available for different building pathways.

Choose riser-rated four-pair cables for vertical pathways between floors or areas that do not serve as air-handling spaces. Choose plenum-rated four-pair cables when the cable runs through a plenum space used for heating, ventilation, or air circulation, and follow local code requirements for the installation.

Compare conductor construction first, including solid bare copper, 23 AWG conductors, and four twisted pairs, then confirm whether the cable is unshielded twisted pair (UTP) or requires shielding for the installation. For bandwidth, Cat 6 options in this assortment are tested to 550 MHz, while Cat 6A options support bandwidth up to 700 MHz, helping you match the cable to network performance needs.

Four-pair cables contain four twisted copper pairs that can carry Ethernet data and voice signals, while compatible Power over Ethernet (PoE) equipment sends electrical power over the same cable. Proper termination and matching the cable’s category and installation rating to the project helps support network devices such as access points, cameras, phones, and other connected equipment.